Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is caused by a bite from an infected tick. The early symptoms of Lyme disease include a unique rash in the shape of a bullseye, as well as fever, headache and muscle and joint pains. One of the potential complications of Lyme disease is neuropathy, which is nerve damage that is caused by bacterial infection. Neuropathy prevents the nerves from carrying out their normal function, which can lead to a variety of different symptoms.
Motor Symptoms
When Lyme disease infects the motor nerves (which are nerves that carry signals from the brain to muscles), it can cause motor dysfuction. The muscles supplied by the infected nerve will become weak or may be paralyzed (depending on the severity of the nerve problems). Some patients also experience loss of coordination and dexterity in the affected regions. The motor problems can occur anywhere in the body, depending on what nerves have been affected.
Sensory
Lyme disease can also affect sensory nerves, those that transmit sensory information from organs (such as the skin) to the brain. As a result, people who have Lyme disease in their sensory nerves may lose certain kinds of sensation. Some of the most commonly observed sensory deficits include numbness or tingling (diminished sensation with a "pins and needles" feeling). The affected parts of the body depend on which nerves have been infected.
Autonomic
Another group of nerves that can be affected by Lyme disease are called autonomic nerves. They help control either involuntary or semivoluntary actions, such as breathing, digestion and swallowing. Lyme disease neuropathy in these nerves can cause blurred vision, increased sweating, constipation/diarrhea, urinary incontinence and dizziness when standing up. The symptoms may vary from person to person as they depend on the nerves involved.
