A bullseye skin rash is one of the first symptoms of Lyme disease. However, it’s not the only sign that could indicate you may have developed this illness from an infected tick bite.
There are a variety of symptoms you may experience, such as low-grade fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and joint pain, to name a few. Many people develop signs and symptoms three to 30 days after transmission, with the exception of few who have delayed onset.
Stages of Lyme Disease
There are several different stages of Lyme disease. It is progressive and can cause various symptoms, depending on how long you have been infected and where the infection has spread.
Stage 1: Localized Lyme Disease
Although the bullseye rash is the telltale sign of Lyme disease in stage 1, there other symptoms that may accompany or present by themselves shortly after an infected bite. Many times, flu-like symptoms are experienced such as, fever, chills, fatigue, and body aches. More standalone symptoms can also be experienced as well. These include:
- Migraines
- Neck stiffness
- Swollen Lymph nodes
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
Stage 2: Early Disseminated Infection
The second stage of Lyme disease is one to four months after the infected bite occurred. If the infection has not been treated in the early onset of symptoms, or if no symptoms were present, the Lyme spreads further throughout the body. The infection may affect direct organs such as the heart and skin, sometimes joints, or even move into the nervous system.
Symptoms include:
- Chronic Headaches and Brain Fog
- Pain and Numbness
- Heart Issues
Stage 3: Persistent Lyme Disease
The last and most serious stage of Lyme disease, stage 3, occurs five months after the infected bite and beyond. If left untreated, or not effectively treated, the infection will cause long-term damage to the body, including the brain, joints, and nervous system. At this time, more debilitating symptoms set in.
Treatment for Lyme Disease
Dr. Robin Ridinger, is a double-board-certified physician who uses a healing-oriented approach. With her 25 years of experience in diagnosing and treating Lyme disease, she’ll help you find the answers you’re looking for.
