The disease can cause a chronic type of arthritis. Some victims of Lyme disease have reported recurring swelling and pain in the large joints years after the initial symptoms. To diagnose the condition, a physician may ask a lot of questions to determine probable exposure to the tick and may conduct several tests including blood tests. However, blood tests aren't always reliable, especially in the early stages of the disease. If Lyme disease is detected early, it can be treated with antibiotic pills - but if not diagnosed until its later stages, antibiotics may have to be given intravenously or by injection.
Treatment is more successful in the early stages.
Avoiding tick bites will prevent the disease, but it's not always possible because the tick is small and a bite can easily go undetected. Wear light-colored clothing so that ticks can more easily be seen. Wear long sleeves and pants tucked into socks. Walk in the center of mowed trails to keep from brushing against vegetation. Periodically check yourself, your children and pets for ticks.