Lyme disease is a serious condition that is caused by a bacterial infection. In many instances, patients develop Lyme disease after being bitten by a tick that is infected with the bacteria. The bacteria enters a patient's bloodstream and contaminates the patient. Lyme disease can affect several parts of a patient's body, including the skin, joints, nervous system and heart. In most cases, Lyme disease is successfully treated with antibiotics. In order to successfully treat Lyme disease and prevent it from causing serious damage to the body, patients should be aware of the symptoms of Lyme disease.
Initial Symptoms
After patients have been bitten by an infected tick, they often develop a small, red rash near the infection site. Over time, the rash expands to a small circle, eventually resembling a "bull's eye." This rash is known as "erythema migrans," and more than 85 percent of Lyme disease patients experience this rash, according to eHealthMD. In addition to the rash, patients demonstrate flu-like symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, fever, chills and muscle aches.
Secondary Symptoms
Approximately one to two weeks after the initial infection, patients develop additional symptoms. These include heart palpitations, severe muscle pain, memory loss, mood swings, increased sensitivity to light and dizziness. If left untreated, symptoms can lead to meningitis and types of palsies, including Bell's palsy.
Late Symptoms
If Lyme disease is untreated several months after the initial infection, patients are at risk for several abnormalities of the heart, nervous system and brain. Many patients experience heart inflammation, leading to arrhythmias and heart failure. According to eHealthMD, about 60 percent of all untreated Lyme disease cases result in arthritis and increased joint pain, especially in the knees. In addition, patients often note tingling in the hands or feet, depression, anxiety, confusion and memory loss.
