Lyme disease is becoming more common. But its symptoms aren’t always easy to spot – BBC.com

Climate change is exacerbating the global spread of Lyme disease, yet many physicians struggle to recognize its symptoms. Ticks, which transmit Lyme disease, can bite without being felt due to an anti-inflammatory substance they secrete, allowing pathogens like Borrelia burgdorferi to enter the bloodstream undetected. Lyme disease, first identified in 1975 in Lyme, Connecticut, manifests with varied symptoms such as facial paralysis, heart problems, severe fatigue, and neuropathy, which complicates its diagnosis and treatment. 

Symptoms and Diagnosis: 

• A classic “bullseye” rash often accompanies Lyme disease, but symptoms can vary widely, and the rash may not always appear as expected. 

• initial diagnosis is often missed due to the variability of symptoms and emphasis on bullseye rash. 

• Standard Lyme tests (ELISA and Western Blot) detect antibodies but not live infection, leading to possible misdiagnoses. 

Impact of Climate Change: 

• Warmer wear due to climate change is allowing ticks to thrive, increasing the incidence of Lyme disease globally. 

Challenges in Treatment: 

• Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial, yet many medical practitioners are not adequately trained to recognize Lyme disease. 

• Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment can lead to chronic Lyme disease, with persistent symptoms even after treatment. 

• Herbal remedies and alternative treatments are often sought, though efficacy and safety are not well-established. 

Hope for the Future: 

• Research is ongoing to improve Lyme disease diagnosis and treatment, including a potential new vaccine currently in phase three trials. 

• Advances in medical science over the next decade hold promise for better managing and curing Lyme disease. 

Given the complexity of Lyme disease and its increasing prevalence, both public and medical professionals need to stay informed about the latest developments in diagnosis and treatment.