Living with Adult Lyme Disease: What You Need to Know About Symptoms and Treatment

Adult Lyme disease is a complex and often misunderstood illness that has surged in recent years due to factors like climate change, urban development, and a growing deer population. These conditions have led to increased tick exposure year-round. Accurate testing tools are crucial for detecting Borrelia bacteria in blood and urine, which causes the fluctuating symptoms of Lyme disease.

What is Adult Lyme Disease?

Adult Lyme disease refers to the manifestation of Lyme disease in individuals over the age of 18. While Lyme disease is commonly associated with children and adolescents, adults can be just as susceptible. In adults, Lyme disease can be more difficult to detect because its symptoms can mimic those of other chronic conditions, making diagnosis tricky.

The bacteria responsible for adult Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, are typically transmitted by the black-legged tick, also known as the deer tick. It is important to remember that not everyone who contracts Lyme disease develops the hallmark “bull’s-eye” rash, especially in adults. Without the rash, the infection can go unnoticed until it becomes more severe.

Common Symptoms of Adult Lyme Disease

The symptoms of adult Lyme disease can vary greatly depending on how long the infection has been present and whether it has spread throughout the body. Lyme disease is typically classified into early-stage (localized) and late-stage (disseminated) disease, and the symptoms can differ significantly between the two stages.

Early-Stage Symptoms of Adult Lyme Disease

In the early stages of adult Lyme disease, symptoms often resemble the flu or other viral infections, making it difficult to identify without a proper examination. Some common early-stage symptoms include:

• Fever and chills
• Fatigue and malaise
• Headaches
• Muscle and joint aches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Erythema migrans (EM) rash – a circular, red rash that appears around the bite site in some cases, though not always

If you notice any of these early symptoms, especially after being outdoors in tick-prone areas, it’s crucial to see a healthcare provider for further testing.

Late-Stage Symptoms of Adult Lyme Disease

If left untreated, adult Lyme disease can progress to more severe symptoms, which may affect multiple organs in the body. Late-stage symptoms can include:

• Chronic joint pain or Lyme arthritis, often affecting the knees
• Neurological symptoms, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating (often referred to as “brain fog”)
• Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat (known as Lyme carditis)
• Chronic fatigue and weakness

These symptoms can be debilitating, making early diagnosis and treatment critical for adults diagnosed with Lyme disease.

Diagnosing Adult Lyme Disease

Diagnosing adult Lyme disease can be challenging because its symptoms overlap with many other conditions. Lyme disease and mold toxicity, also known as the “Great Imitators,” can mimic many other diseases, especially in adults, where a proper diagnosis can be difficult. They are diseases that affect multi-organ systems, causing local and systemic inflammation while rendering tissues, cells, and organelles unable to cope with the daily demands of everyday life.

Having trained as an ILADS preceptor under the tutelage of Dr. Richard Horowitz in Hyde Park, NY, a leading Lyme disease expert, it is Dr. Marra’s belief that an integrated approach to Lyme disease and co-infection treatment is the most effective way to eradicate tick-borne illness. Depending on the patient and severity of the disease, she uses rotating combinations, peptides, botanical medicines, and nutrition to maximize the healing from this all too often debilitating disease.

Without question, the sooner you receive proper diagnosis and treatment, the more likely you will fully recover.

Some patients struggle with detoxifying endotoxins released into the bloodstream from dying spirochetes. These individuals often require a careful combination of antibiotics and herbal treatments to facilitate healing. 

With over 22 years of experience in naturopathic medicine treating adults with chronic Lyme disease and co-infections, Dr. Marra emphasizes that successful healing relies heavily on a strong doctor-patient relationship built on honest communication. This trust allows for informed treatment decisions. Dr. Marra collaborates closely with other Lyme-literate doctors, sharing insights and innovative therapeutic approaches to enhance patient care.

Adult Lyme Disease Treatment with Dr. Marra

At Dr. Susan Marra’s office, we specialize in diagnosing and treating adult Lyme disease with a comprehensive, patient-centered approach. Schedule an appointment or learn more about Lyme disease treatment, call us at 206-299-2676. Dr. Marra is here to help you regain your health and well-being.