Customer question:
What are the consequences of Lyme disease? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
If Lyme disease is not treated, its further development can cause complications, including chronic joint inflammation, neurological symptoms, cognitive impairment, and heart rhythm abnormalities. Early symptoms mainly include headache, fatigue, stiff joints, and a skin rash indicating the site of infection.
You must seek medical attention immediately if you notice early signs of Lyme disease.
Bacteria can cross the brain barrier in rare cases and later stages of Lyme disease. This can happen because the bacteria keep multiplying and getting stronger when Lyme disease is left untreated. This can cause neurological symptoms such as numbness, pain, weakness, Bell's palsy, visual disturbances, and symptoms of meningitis.
Lyme disease can develop into Lyme carditis if the Borrelia bacterium enters the tissues of the heart. This can disrupt the normal movement of electrical signals from the heart's upper to lower chambers, the process that coordinates the heartbeat. Lyme carditis is rare and only occurs in approximately 1% of cases.
A type of Lyme disease common in Europe can cause a skin disease called chronic atrophic acrodermatitis. The skin on the backs of the hands and tops of the feet becomes discolored and swollen. It can also appear above the elbows and knees. More severe cases can cause tissue or joint damage. This skin condition can occur months to years after a tick bite.
Interesting reading: Lyme borreliosis
Interesting reading: Borrelia signs on the skin pictures
