Lyme disease, also known as
Lyme borreliosis, is an
infectious disease caused by
bacteria of the
Borrelia type. The most common sign of infection is an expanding area of redness, known as
erythema migrans, that begins at the site of a tick bite about a week after it has occurred. The rash is typically neither itchy nor painful. About 25% of people do not develop a rash. Other early symptoms may include
fever,
headache, and
feeling tired. If untreated, symptoms may include
loss of the ability to move one or both sides of the face,
joint pains,
severe headaches with neck stiffness, or
heart palpitations, among others. Months to years later, repeated episodes of joint pain and swelling may occur. Occasionally, people develop shooting pains or tingling in their arms and legs. Despite appropriate treatment, about 10 to 20% of people also develop joint pains, have memory problems, and feel tired much of the time.