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A Lyme disease specialist evaluates and treats symptoms that linger long after initial exposure. Because Lyme disease can affect multiple systems of the body and often presents in complex ways, persistent symptoms require a thorough, informed approach. Here’s a closer look at why you need to consult a Lyme-literate physician for persistent symptoms:
Why Is Diagnosis Hard?
Diagnosing Lyme disease presents several challenges, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses. The initial symptoms, such as fever, headache, and fatigue, are common to many other illnesses, making it easy to mistake Lyme disease for something else. The characteristic bull’s-eye rash does not appear in all cases, which makes visual diagnosis less reliable.
Standard blood tests for Lyme disease detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the infection, but these tests can be unreliable. Antibodies may take several weeks to develop; testing too early can result in a false negative. For these reasons, a person may receive an inaccurate diagnosis or be told their symptoms are unrelated to Lyme disease. This is why a Lyme disease specialist is fundamental for proper evaluation.
How Do Specialists Identify Symptoms?
A Lyme-literate physician uses a comprehensive approach to identify symptoms that last beyond the initial infection. Their evaluation goes beyond standard testing to provide a comprehensive view of a patient’s health. These specialists conduct a thorough review of your medical history and perform an in-depth clinical assessment. They may also order specialized tests that are more sensitive than standard options. A specialist will also evaluate for co-infections, as ticks can transmit other pathogens along with the Lyme bacteria.
Which Treatments Help With Symptoms?
A Lyme-literate physician develops individualized plans because persistent symptoms affect each person differently. Treatment often involves a combination of therapies to reduce symptoms and address the underlying infection. A specialist may prescribe longer courses of antibiotics or use a combination of different medications to target the bacteria.
Beyond antibiotics, a Lyme disease specialist may integrate supportive therapies. For instance, these can include nutritional supplements to boost the immune system and detoxification methods to support the body’s healing. The goal is to create a multifaceted treatment plan that addresses the infection while also supporting the body’s overall function.
When Should You See a Specialist?
Knowing when to see a specialist is fundamental for getting the right care. You should contemplate seeking a Lyme disease specialist if your symptoms do not improve after a standard course of treatment. Here are some specific situations where a consultation is beneficial:
- You continue to experience symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or cognitive issues after completing initial antibiotic therapy.
- You received a negative test result for Lyme disease, but still have symptoms consistent with the infection.
- You have been diagnosed with another condition, such as fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, but are not responding to treatment.
- You suspect you may have Lyme disease, but have not been able to get a clear diagnosis from other doctors.
If any of these apply to you, a Lyme-literate physician offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options to help you manage your health.
Consult a Lyme Disease Specialist
If you are dealing with persistent symptoms that you suspect are related to Lyme disease, consulting a specialist is the next step. A Lyme-literate physician can accurately diagnose the condition, identify any co-infections, and design a treatment plan tailored to your needs. For persistent symptoms, contact a Lyme disease physician near you to schedule your consultation today.
