Lyme disease, transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. If left untreated, Lyme can lead to serious complications– affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for effectively managing Lyme disease and preventing long-term health consequences. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatments of Lyme disease so you can stay protected this summer.
For same-day tick bite and Lyme disease treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills. Our board-certified medical providers can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and plan treatment accordingly. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance by pre-registering below.
Lyme Disease: Causes and Symptoms
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that is a significant concern for those who spend time outdoors where ticks thrive. Knowing how to recognize the signs of Lyme disease is essential for early detection and prompt treatment. This bacterial infection is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected deer tick. When a tick feeds on blood, it can transmit the bacteria into the bloodstream and cause infection. It’s important to note that the symptoms of Lyme disease can vary widely depending on the stage of infection and individual factors.
Common signs and symptoms of Lyme disease include:
- Red, bullseye-shaped rash
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
How is Lyme Disease Treated?
In the early stages of Lyme disease, treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria and prevent the infection from spreading. The choice of antibiotic and duration of treatment may vary depending on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the patient’s age, and any underlying health conditions. Commonly prescribed antibiotics for Lyme disease include doxycycline and amoxicillin. If Lyme disease is not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can progress to later stages– leading to more severe symptoms and complications. Late-stage Lyme disease may require more advanced treatment approaches, including longer antibiotic courses, IV antibiotics, and additional medications.
Following the completion of antibiotic treatment, patients with Lyme disease may require ongoing monitoring and follow-up care to assess treatment response, manage symptoms, and prevent recurrence. Your provider may recommend check-ups and lab tests to monitor potential disease progression.
Prevention Tips
While effective treatment is available for Lyme disease, prevention remains the best approach to avoid the risk of infection. Here are some key prevention strategies to reduce your risk of contracting Lyme disease:
1. Stay away from wooded, grassy, tick-prone areas
2. Use tick repellent containing DEET to exposed skin when spending time outdoors
3. Wear protective clothing when outside to minimize skin exposure to ticks
4. Perform regular rick checks on yourself, others, and your pets
5. Promptly remove any attached ticks with fine-tipped tweezers
Get Walk-In Lyme Disease Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills
Lyme disease is a potentially serious bacterial infection transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are essential for properly managing Lyme disease and preventing long-term complications. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have contracted Lyme disease, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills for prompt medical attention. Our medical team can evaluate, diagnose, and treat your condition all on a walk-in basis. By understanding how Lyme is treated and taking proactive steps to prevent tick bites, you can protect yourself and others from this tick-borne illness. If you have any additional questions about tick bite and Lyme disease treatment, or other services we provide, please call us directly at (303) 756-4500.
