Best Lyme Disease Doctors in Mysore

Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected deer tick or black-legged tick. The disease progresses through various stages, leading to symptoms affecting the skin, joints, heart, and nervous system. If left untreated, it may lead to severe complications. Engaging in regular outdoor activities in areas where ticks are common can increase the risk of contracting Lyme disease.

In Mysore, Lyme disease may be less common compared to some other regions globally, but it is still important to remain vigilant, especially for travellers. Awareness can help residents avoid complications of this disease. Apollo Hospitals in Mysore houses some of the best doctors for Lyme disease treatment, ensuring that patients have access to comprehensive care if they encounter this disease.

Types/Stages of Lyme Disease

Lyme disease generally progresses through three critical stages, as per doctors for tick-borne illness treatment:

• Early Localised Lyme: This stage typically starts 3 to 30 days after a tick bite and manifests as flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, headaches, swollen lymph nodes and a distinctive bull’s eye rash or a round red rash, typically 2 inches wide.

• Early Disseminated Lyme: From month one to month four, the bacteria spread throughout the body, causing symptoms such as pain or numbness in arms and legs, vision changes, heart palpitations and chest pain.

• Late Disseminated Lyme: After month four, the bacteria have migrated to remote sites like joints and nerves causing arthritis, meningitis and other neurological issues.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease

People affected by Lyme disease may experience a range of symptoms, including:

• Fever and chills

• Headaches

• Fatigue

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Muscle and joint aches

• A distinctive circular rash

• Numbness or weakness in arms or legs

• Painful swelling of Joints

• Vision changes

Tests to Diagnose Lyme Disease

Accurate detection and diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment of Lyme disease. Doctors for Lyme disease treatment at Apollo Hospitals in Mysore may recommend the following tests for diagnosis:

• Physical Examination: The doctor performs a thorough physical examination and medical history check to assess symptoms, such as the characteristic bull's-eye rash.

• ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) Test: This is a blood test to measure levels of antibodies against the bacteria causing Lyme disease. A positive result suggests exposure to the bacteria.

• Western Blot Test: If ELISA is positive, this test is conducted to confirm the disease.

• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): This test detects Lyme disease in fluid drawn from an affected joint or cerebrospinal fluid.

• Antigen Detection Test: This test identifies specific proteins associated with the Lyme bacteria in various body fluids.

• Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis: A lumbar puncture is performed to analyse cerebrospinal fluid for signs of infection or inflammation if neurological symptoms are present.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Lyme Disease at Apollo Hospitals, Mysore

At Apollo Hospitals, Mysore, patients receive comprehensive care from doctors for tick-borne illness treatment and doctors for Lyme disease treatment, making it a preferred choice. The primary treatment for Lyme disease at Apollo Hospitals is antibiotics with no surgical options available.

• Oral Antibiotics: These are standard medications for early-stage Lyme disease, usually prescribed for 2-4 weeks. Common antibiotics include doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime axetil.

• Intravenous Antibiotics: If the disease has spread to the central nervous system, IV antibiotics such as ceftriaxone or penicillin may be administered for 2-4 weeks.

• Symptoms Management: For patients with lingering symptoms after treatment, doctors might prescribe therapy to manage pain, fatigue or neurological issues.

• Preventive Antibiotics: A single dose of doxycycline may be prescribed to a patient bitten by a deer tick that has been attached to the skin for 36 hours or longer.