Ticks are considered as common insects that are present in animals but can end up on humans, especially those who spend a lot of time outdoors. Even though ticks are not dangerous, there are some species that can transmit diseases to humans. It is important to note that Lyme disease is considered as a serious, infectious disease carried by the deer tick. This disease is caused by a number of tick-borne bacteria that can be transmitted to both animals and humans. Several symptoms develop among those who have Lyme disease where some occur after the initial infection and others tend to linger long after the treatment was completed.
The standard treatment for Lyme disease is antibiotic therapy and there are other alternative therapies available. There are a number of cases that can lead to serious symptoms to manifest years later.
What are the initial stages of infection?
In case the treatment is started soon after the initial signs of infection takes place, the prognosis is good for complete recovery. If the condition is not treated, the symptoms can spread and even manifest in various tissues in the body and becoming more subtle.
Issues can manifest in the form of Bell’s palsy that can affect the facial muscles, pain that disrupts with sleep, stiffness in the neck due to meningitis and heart issues as well.
What are the recurrent long-term symptoms?
It is important to note that most cases of individuals who were not treated for Lyme disease can end up with intermittent arthritis, especially in the large joints and most evident in the knees. The stiffness, swelling and inflammation develop and in some individuals, it becomes a life-long issue.
The neurological indications can manifest in a recurring manner months up to years after the start of the disease. Take note that shooting pain, tingling sensation in the feet and cognitive issues with memory and attention span can develop.
Treatment using long-term antibiotics
In one study conducted, chronic infectious diseases caused by persistent bacteria might require a longer course of treatment or different antibiotic combinations that can result to better improvement of the condition. Even with previous antibiotic treatment, recurrent joint and muscle pain lingered as well as difficulty thinking and memory issues.
What are the auto-immune effects?
Based on studies, a small percentage of individuals with recurrent Lyme disease, it can last for months to years beyond treatment using antibiotics. It is important to note that the symptoms and pain experienced might not only include arthritis and cognitive issues, but also sleep disturbance, sensory or motor disturbances, fatigue, lymphocytic meningitis, chest pain, myocardial abnormalities, mood and memory issues, low-grade fever and antibiotic-sensitive skin lesions.
Once an individual is suspected with Lyme disease, it is vital to consult a doctor for proper assessment and diagnosis. Early treatment of Lyme disease can greatly help in preventing the recurrence of the disease.