Lyme disease can be a lifelong condition for some individuals, but not for all. Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks.
If Lyme disease is diagnosed and treated promptly with appropriate antibiotics, most people recover completely and do not experience any long-term effects. However, in some cases, Lyme disease may not be diagnosed or treated effectively, leading to ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and neurological problems. This condition is sometimes called “chronic Lyme disease” or “post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome” (PTLDS).
It’s important to note that there is still much debate among medical professionals about the existence and nature of chronic Lyme disease/PTLDS. Some experts believe that ongoing symptoms are due to a persistent infection, while others think that they are caused by an overactive immune system or other factors. Regardless, it’s clear that some people do experience ongoing symptoms after Lyme disease, which can be disabling in some cases. If you are concerned about your symptoms, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
