InfectiousICD-10: A69.2About 476,000 people are diagnosed and treated annually in the U.S.

Lyme Disease

Also known as: Lyme Borreliosis

Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness in North America and Europe, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi transmitted through blacklegged tick bites. Early symptoms include a characteristic expanding red rash and flu-like symptoms. When diagnosed early, Lyme disease is effectively treated with antibiotics, but delayed treatment can lead to chronic complications.

Symptoms

Expanding circular red rash (erythema migrans/bull's-eye rash)
Fever, chills, and body aches
Fatigue and headache
Swollen lymph nodes
Facial palsy (Bell's palsy) if nervous system is involved
Severe joint pain and swelling (Lyme arthritis)
Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat (Lyme carditis)
Numbness or tingling in extremities

Causes

  • Borrelia burgdorferi transmitted by infected Ixodes ticks
  • Ticks must be attached for 36–48 hours to transmit bacteria
  • Ticks acquire the bacteria by feeding on infected mice and deer

Risk Factors

  • Living in or visiting wooded, grassy areas in endemic regions
  • Spending time outdoors without tick prevention
  • Having pets that may carry ticks indoors
  • Peak exposure during spring and summer (May–August)
  • Northeast, mid-Atlantic, and upper Midwest U.S. regions

Diagnosis

  • Clinical diagnosis based on erythema migrans rash (no lab needed)
  • Two-tier serologic testing: ELISA followed by Western blot
  • PCR testing of joint fluid for Lyme arthritis
  • Lumbar puncture for suspected neurological Lyme disease

Treatment

  • Oral antibiotics: doxycycline (preferred), amoxicillin, or cefuroxime for 10–21 days
  • IV ceftriaxone for Lyme meningitis or severe carditis
  • NSAIDs for joint pain and inflammation
  • Single-dose doxycycline prophylaxis after high-risk tick bites
  • Physical therapy for persistent Lyme arthritis

Prevention

  • Use EPA-registered insect repellents (DEET, picaridin, permethrin-treated clothing)
  • Perform thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors
  • Shower within 2 hours of coming indoors
  • Remove attached ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers
  • Create tick-safe zones in your yard

When to See a Doctor

  • You develop an expanding red rash after a tick bite
  • Flu-like symptoms after spending time in a tick-endemic area
  • Joint swelling, facial paralysis, or heart palpitations
  • You found an engorged tick attached for more than 24 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Neurological

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Autoimmune

Fibromyalgia

Musculoskeletal

Lupus

Autoimmune

Related from the Supplement Library

Cat's Claw

Preliminary

Herb · Immune modulation

Probiotics (Lactobacillus)

Strong

Probiotic · Gut microbiome balance and diversity

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Strong

Fatty Acid · Cardiovascular health (TG reduction, anti-arrhythmic)

Vitamin D

Strong

Vitamin · Bone health and calcium absorption

NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)

Strong

Amino Acid · Glutathione precursor and antioxidant support

These supplements have been studied in relation to Lyme Disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.