Other symptoms can appear weeks, months, or years later. Lyme disease is diagnosed by a physical examination and medical history. The clinical diagnosis is supported by laboratory testing. Diagnosis of Lyme disease can be difficult. Current tests are not completely accurate, and the symptoms can mimic those of other diseases.
Diagnosis is easiest when there is a skin rash.
Lyme disease can affect anyone. Persons who spend time in brushy and wooded areas are at increased risk of exposure. The chances of being bitten by a tick are greatest during times of the year when ticks are most active. Adult ticks are most active in mid- to late fall and early spring. Lyme disease is treatable with antibiotics taken for 3 to 4 weeks.