A blood test can be done to check for antibodies to the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. The most common one used is the ELISA for Lyme disease test. A western blot test is done to confirm ELISA results.

A physical exam may show joint, heart, or brain problems in people with advanced Lyme disease.

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.

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.

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

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

When walking or hiking in wooded or grassy areas:

• Spray all exposed skin and your clothing with insect repellant (spray outdoors only, do not use on face, use just enough to cover all other exposed skin, don't spray under clothing, don't apply over wounds or irritated skin, wash skin after going inside)
• Wear light-colored clothing to make it easier to spot ticks
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants with the cuffs tucked into shoes or socks
• Wear high boots, preferably rubber

Check yourself and your pets frequently during and after your walk or hike.

Ticks that carry Lyme disease are so small that they are very hard to see. After returning home, remove your clothes and thoroughly inspect all skin surface areas, including your scalp.

See also: Tick removal