Treatment:

Most people who are bitten by a tick do NOT get Lyme disease. Antibiotics may be offered to someone who isn't sick if:

• They have a tick that can carry Lyme disease attached to their body
• The tick is estimated to have been attached to them for at least 36 hours
• They can begin taking the antibiotics within 72 hours of removing the tick
• They are over 8 years old and are not pregnant or breastfeeding

Antibiotics are used to treat Lyme disease. The specific antibiotic used depends on the stage of the disease and the symptoms.

Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, are sometimes prescribed to relieve joint stiffness.

Expectations (prognosis):

If diagnosed in the early stages, Lyme disease can be cured with antibiotics. Without treatment, complications involving joints, the heart, and the nervous system can occur.

Rarely, a person will continue having symptoms that can interfere with daily life. Some people call this post-Lyme disease syndrome. Unfortunately, there is no effective treatment yet for this syndrome.

Complications:

Advanced stages of Lyme disease can cause long-term joint inflammation (Lyme arthritis) and heart rhythm problems. Neurological problems are also possible, and may include:

• Decreased concentration
• Memory disorders
• Nerve damage
• Numbness
• Pain
• Paralysis of the facial muscles
• Sleep disorders
• Visual disturbances

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of Lyme disease.