Lyme Disease

Lyme testing offered in our practice is the most accurate testing available to detect Lyme disease. This test can also evaluate you for Tick-Borne Relapsing Fever, Bordetellosis, Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, and Rickettsiosis.

Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. Early symptoms may include fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, and a distinctive bull's-eye rash. If left untreated, the disease can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system and cause more severe symptoms. Treatment for Lyme disease typically involves antibiotics and most people recover fully with prompt and appropriate care.

Lyme disease test

Lyme disease tests are used to diagnose an infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. The two main types of tests are:

1. Blood tests: ELISA and Western blot tests are used to detect antibodies to the bacterium in the blood. They may not be positive in the initial stages of infection, so repeat testing may be needed.
2. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test: This test is used to detect the genetic material of the bacterium in a sample of fluid from a skin lesion or in blood.

It's important to note that a negative test result does not rule out Lyme disease, and other tests or clinical evaluation may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. It's also important to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation if you have symptoms suggestive of Lyme disease.

Lyme Disease Blood Test

The Lyme disease blood test is used to detect antibodies to the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi in the blood. The two main types of tests are:

1. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA): This is a screening test that checks for antibodies to B. burgdorferi in the blood. If the ELISA test is positive, a more specific test called Western blot is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis.
2. Western blot test: This is a more specific test that looks for specific proteins (antigens) associated with B. burgdorferi. It is considered the "gold standard" for Lyme disease testing.

It's important to note that these tests may not be positive in the early stages of infection and that other tests or clinical evaluation may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. A negative test result does not rule out Lyme disease, and your doctor may consider other factors in making a diagnosis.

Lyme Disease Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test

The Lyme disease Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is a laboratory test used to detect the genetic material (DNA) of the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi that causes Lyme disease. This test can be performed on a sample of fluid from a skin lesion or blood.

The PCR test is useful in detecting initial stages of Lyme disease, particularly when antibody tests are negative. However, it is not widely available and may not be dependable in detecting the disease in all cases.

It's important to note that the PCR test should not be used as the sole diagnostic tool for Lyme disease. A positive test result may indicate the presence of B. burgdorferi, but other factors such as clinical evaluation and the results of other tests are also considered in making a definitive diagnosis.

It's important to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation if you have symptoms suggestive of Lyme disease, and they will be able to advise on the best course of action and appropriate testing.

Best Treatment for Lyme Disease

The best treatment for Lyme disease depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the patient's symptoms, and individual patient factors. The following are some commonly used treatments for Lyme disease:

1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are the main treatment for Lyme disease and are effective in most cases. The type and length of antibiotics used will depend on the stage of the disease and the severity of symptoms.
2. Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to relieve joint and muscle pain.
3. Anti-inflammatory drugs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to reduce joint swelling and relieve pain.
4. Physical therapy: Physical therapy and exercise can help improve joint function and relieve pain.
5. Alternative treatments: Some patients may choose to try alternative therapies such as herbal remedies, acupuncture, or chiropractic treatments, although the evidence for their effectiveness in treating Lyme disease is limited.

It's important to see a doctor promptly if you have symptoms of Lyme disease, as early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the chances of a full recovery. Your doctor will be able to advise on the best course of treatment based on your individual circumstances.

Treatment for Chronic Lyme Disease

Chronic Lyme disease refers to ongoing symptoms that persist after standard treatment for Lyme disease. The treatment for chronic Lyme disease is controversial and often differs from the treatment for acute Lyme disease. The following are some commonly used treatments for chronic Lyme disease:

1. Long-term antibiotics: Some doctors may prescribe a prolonged course of antibiotics to treat chronic Lyme disease, although there is limited evidence to support their effectiveness.
2. Anti-inflammatory drugs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to relieve joint pain and swelling.
3. Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to relieve pain.
4. Physical therapy: Physical therapy and exercise can help improve joint function and relieve pain.
5. Alternative treatments: Some patients may choose to try alternative therapies such as herbal remedies, acupuncture, or chiropractic treatments, although the evidence for their effectiveness in treating chronic Lyme disease is limited.

It's important to note that the treatment for chronic Lyme disease is often a matter of debate among healthcare providers and may not be recognized by some as a legitimate medical condition. It's important to seek a second opinion if you are considering alternative treatments and to work with a doctor you trust to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that takes into account your individual needs and circumstances.