The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Lyme Disease

An infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted by tick bites and presenting with erythema migrans and systemic involvement.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is a zoonosis caused by the spirochete bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi (complex), transmitted to humans through bites of ticks of the genus Ixodes. It is widespread in the United States, Europe, and Northern Asia.

The disease may progress through three stages: early localized stage (erythema migrans, a 'bull's-eye' rash), early disseminated stage (multiple rashes, facial palsy, meningitis, carditis), and late stage (arthritis, neurological findings).

Full recovery is possible with early antibiotic treatment (doxycycline, amoxicillin). Diagnosis is made using clinical findings and serological tests. Tick-prevention measures and prompt tick removal are crucial for primary protection.

Symptoms

Expanding red ring-like rash after tick bite (erythema migrans)
Flu-like fever, fatigue, muscle aches
Multiple skin lesions (disseminated stage)
Facial palsy (unilateral)
Lyme carditis (atrioventricular block)
Lyme meningitis and radiculopathy
Late-stage arthritis in large joints such as the knee

Risk Factors

Outdoor activities in endemic areas (forest, rural)
Prolonged tick exposure
Improper tick removal technique
Outdoor occupations (forestry, hunting)
Increase during summer and spring months
Tall-grass and woodland areas
Failure to use protective clothing and repellents

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Bull's-eye rash following a tick bite
  • Fever, joint pain, and fatigue (in an endemic area)
  • Unilateral facial paralysis
  • Arrhythmia and chest pain (Lyme carditis)
  • Recurrent arthritis in large joints

Treatment Methods

01
Oral doxycycline for 10-14 days in the early stage (amoxicillin alternative)
02
Intravenous ceftriaxone in neurological and cardiac involvement
03
Long-course antibiotic therapy in Lyme arthritis
04
Steady traction with tweezers when removing a tick
05
Protective clothing and DEET repellent in endemic areas
06
Whole-body inspection after tick exposure

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Flu (Influenza)

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Influenza is a seasonal contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses; it presents with high fever, muscle pain, and severe fatigue.

COVID-19

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus with a wide clinical spectrum ranging from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Upper respiratory tract infections are diseases that include common cold, pharyngitis, sinusitis, and laryngitis, often of viral origin and self-limited.

Urinary Tract Infection

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Urinary tract infections are common bacterial infections most often caused by Escherichia coli, presenting with burning and frequent urination.

Hepatitis A (HAV)

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Hepatitis A is an acute, self-limited liver infection transmitted via the fecal-oral route causing acute hepatitis without chronicity; supportive care suffices in most cases, while vaccination prevents outbreaks and post-exposure prophylaxis within 2 weeks is effective.

Hepatitis B

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Hepatitis B is a contagious infection caused by HBV virus transmitted via blood, sexual intercourse, and mother-to-child, that can become chronic and progress to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Hepatitis C

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by HCV virus transmitted mainly by blood; the rate of chronicity is high, but cure is possible with new antiviral drugs.

HIV/AIDS Information

Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları

HIV is a virus that targets the immune system; if untreated, it progresses to AIDS. With modern antiretroviral therapy, HIV-positive individuals can lead healthy, long lives.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.