Lyme disease is a very common illness, with more than 200,000 cases reported each year in the U.S. The bacterial infection is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick and can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. If you’ve ever had Lyme disease, you may be wondering whether or not you’re at risk for reinfection. This blog will provide the answer to that question and explore ways to relieve your Lyme disease symptoms.
For same-day tick bite and Lyme disease treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Lakewood. Our medical providers can diagnose your condition and help plan the best treatment so you can get back to feeling your best. Simply walk into the clinic or reserve your spot online today!
Signs and Symptoms Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. These ticks are commonly found in wooded and grassy areas. Lyme disease symptoms can vary from person to person depending on the severity of infection and timing of treatment.
Common Lyme disease symptoms include:
- Rash
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Muscle & joint pain
- Fatigue
Can You Get Lyme Disease More Than Once?
So, can you get Lyme disease twice? The answer is yes, it is possible for those who have been infected with Lyme to get infected again. However, it’s not very common. Most people who are infected with Lyme disease develop antibodies that protect them from reinfection. When a person is first diagnosed with Lyme, their immune system produces antibodies to fight off the bacteria, which provides a level of immunity against future infections. However, in some cases the immune system may not produce enough antibodies to provide full protection against the bacteria which means that it’s possible to get Lyme disease more than once.
It’s important to note that even after following a proper treatment regimen, it is possible to get Lyme disease again. Antibiotics are proven to be effective in treating Lyme, but they don’t provide full protection against future infections.
Lyme Disease Prevention & Treatment
The risk of getting Lyme disease more than one can be reduced by taking preventive measures. When you know you’re going to be spending time in wooded or grassy areas, be sure to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, use insect repellent containing DEET, and always perform tick checks on yourself and others. If you find a tick on yourself, or suspect you may have been bitten, it’s very important to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment of Lyme is essential for a quick recovery and avoiding complications.
Lyme disease is typically treated with antibiotics. The full length of treatment depends on the stage of the disease and severity of symptoms. Early-stage Lyme disease can usually be fully treated with two or three weeks of antibiotics. However, more advanced infections may require longer courses of antibiotics.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Lakewood For Tick Bite & Lyme Treatment
While it’s possible to get Lyme disease twice, it’s not common. By taking the appropriate preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of getting Lyme disease. If you or a loved one is displaying Lyme disease symptoms, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Lakewood for a proper diagnosis and treatment options. The clinic is open seven days a week, and accepts most major health insurance plans. If you have any additional questions about Lyme disease, please contact us directly at (303) 988-3600.
