The summer months are rapidly approaching! Longer days and warmer temperatures make for an ideal time to enjoy the outdoors. While beach days and camping trips may be fun, it’s important to be aware of the presence of ticks in your area to reduce your risk of Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection, transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. The condition causes a range of symptoms, with most people reporting high levels of fatigue during the course of illness. This blog will explore the symptoms of Lyme disease, how long fatigue may last, and when to seek medical attention.
For same-day Lyme disease care, visit the walk-in clinic at HealthPlus Urgent Care. Our team of board-certified medical providers can examine your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and make the best recommendations for treatment. Simply walk into the clinic! If you wish to plan your visit in advance, you can schedule an appointment below.
Lyme Disease Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of Lyme disease is fatigue, which can last for prolonged periods of time and significantly affect the quality of life for those infected. The duration of Lyme disease fatigue can vary from person to person, depending on various factors- including the severity of infection, timing of treatment, and the overall health of the individual. Extreme levels of tiredness can be particularly debilitating. You may find it difficult to perform daily tasks or remain productive throughout your work day. In general, fatigue caused by Lyme disease can last for several weeks to several months.
Other common Lyme disease symptoms include:
- Rash
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Muscle & joint pain
Factors That Can Influence Lyme Disease Fatigue
The severity and duration of your individual fatigue levels can vary. Some individuals may experience only mild tiredness, while others may have extreme fatigue that limits their ability to properly function. Several factors can influence the duration of Lyme disease fatigue, including the timing of treatment. The earlier the treatment is initiated, the more likely you will recover quickly from the infection. In general, if Lyme is treated early with antibiotics, the risk of long-term fatigue is reduced drastically. Additionally, the severity of the infection can impact the duration of fatigue. Those who are diagnosed with a severe infection are likely to experience more long-lasting symptoms, including fatigue.
Furthermore, the overall health of the individual infected also affects the duration of Lyme disease fatigue. Individuals with underlying health concerns or a weakened immune system may experience more prolonged periods of fatigue than those who are generally healthy. It’s also important to note that age can play a role in the duration of fatigue. Older adults typically experience more severe symptoms than younger individual.
Lyme Disease Treatment Options
If you find a tick on your body or suspect that you may have been bitten, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. There are several approaches to treating Lyme disease and fatigue. Since Lyme disease is a bacterial infection, medical providers typically prescribe a course of antibiotics. Your individual treatment regimen will depend on the stage and severity of your infection, and may also include additional medications to manage residual pain and inflammation.
If Lyme disease is not treated promptly, you could be at risk for serious health conditions and chronic fatigue. The earlier you seek treatment, the quicker you will recover.
Get Treated For Tick Bite & Lyme Disease at HealthPlus Urgent Care
Visiting an urgent care center is a great resource for those who wish to receive a quick and accurate diagnosis for Lyme disease. At HealthPlus Urgent Care, a medical provider will discuss your symptoms and prescribe antibiotic treatment at your convenience.
The center is open seven days a week, 8am to 8pm. Our team is dedicated to making healthcare accessible for every patient in Middleton, Wilmington, and surrounding communities in Massachusetts. We accept most major health insurance plans and offer cost-effective care for any self-paying patient. Just walk-in today! If you have further questions about Lyme disease treatment, please call us directly at (978) 905-6231.