Lyme Disease

Chronic Lyme disease, also known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS), is poorly understood and difficult to treat condition that occurs after the initial or acute episode of Lyme disease  

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Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi (as well as numerous other Borrelia species) and is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. If left untreated, Lyme disease can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, joint pain, and a characteristic skin rash.  Most people who who are infected will make a full recovery, particularly if treated with appropriate antibiotics.

However, some people who have been treated for Lyme disease continue to experience symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and difficulty concentrating for months or even years after their initial infection. This condition is sometimes referred to as chronic Lyme disease or PTLDS.   The precise causation of this chronic syndrome remains a topic of debate in the medical community.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not officially recognize chronic Lyme disease as a distinct diagnosis, and this has added to the confusion and frustration of patients who are suffering with this debilitating condition.  While there is no widely accepted treatment for the condition, there are promising studies and interventions now and on the horizon.

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Complicating the chronic Lyme picture, is the fact that many times ticks transmit a variety of organisms, including Bartonella, Babesia, Ehrlichia and others.  These co-infections may also lead to chronic health issues, and challenge the patient and practitioner.

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At Lifespan Integrative Medicine, we have treated many patients with chronic Lyme disease.

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                                                                                                                We can't let the ticks win!