The symptoms of Lyme disease vary depending on the stage of the infection but commonly include: Early symptoms (within 3 to 30 days after a tick bite):
- A red rash called erythema migrans (EM), which often looks like a bull's-eye and expands over several days; it may feel warm but is usually not painful or itchy.
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
- Muscle and joint aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Stiff neck
If untreated, the infection can spread, leading to more severe symptoms such as:
- Additional EM rashes on different areas of the body
- Severe headaches and neck stiffness
- Facial palsy (weakness or drooping of facial muscles)
- Arthritis with severe joint pain and swelling, especially in knees and other large joints
- Intermittent pain in tendons, muscles, joints, and bones
- Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat (Lyme carditis), which may cause dizziness or shortness of breath
- Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)
- Nerve pain, shooting pains, numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Cognitive difficulties including memory loss and trouble concentrating
Symptoms can come and go and may last for months or even years if not treated promptly. Lyme disease symptoms may also mimic other illnesses, making diagnosis sometimes difficult without a history of tick exposure. If you notice any of these symptoms, especially after a tick bite or potential exposure in Lyme disease risk areas, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment with antibiotics is crucial to prevent the progression of the disease.
