Lyme disease, caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium from tick bites, presents unique challenges in younger patients. At Mind Align Psychiatry, we focus on effective treatment for Lyme disease in individuals aged 22 and under, ensuring a comprehensive approach to managing this condition.
Understanding Lyme Disease:
Bacteria Causing Lyme: Borrelia burgdorferi is transmitted through tick bites.
Rash Occurrence: About 75% of patients develop a rash, often not the typical “bull’s eye” rash, within 3-30 days of the bite.
Initial Symptoms: Besides the rash, flu-like symptoms are common, especially after activities like hiking in summer.
Acute Symptoms of Lyme Disease:
Lyme disease can lead to arthritis, cranial nerve palsy, meningitis, depression and cognitive slowing.
If untreated, it can progress to encephalopathy with severe neurocognitive issues, including depression, slowed thinking, personality changes, hallucinations, delusions, mania and movement disorders.
Long-Term Symptoms:
About 15% of patients experience Post-Treatment Lyme Disease (PTLD), involving low energy and pain.
Treatment Guidelines:
Treatment guidelines vary, with some recommending against and others supporting the use of second or third courses of antibiotics when there is no objective evidence of active infection.
Diagnostic Tests:
Lyme ELISA antibody test, followed by the IgG Western Blot Test if ELISA is positive.
The Western Blot Test identifies antibodies against Lyme-related antigens.
Preferred Antibiotics:
Doxycycline for 10 days, Amoxicillin or Cefuroxime for 14 days, and for Lyme arthritis, 28 days of oral Doxycycline.
Persistent Symptoms and Antibiotic Use:
Research indicates that oral antibiotics show no significant difference from placebo.
IV Ceftriaxone has shown significant differences compared to placebo but is not recommended due to side effects and temporary benefits.
Theories Behind Persistent Symptoms:
Theories include partial eradication of the spirochete, an ongoing immune response, or a separate bacterial infection resistant to initial antibiotics.
Managing Pain and Depression from Lyme Disease:
SNRIs such as Cymbalta, Effexor and Pristiq are considered first for patients with pain and depression resulting from Lyme disease.
Discover Wellness with Mind Align Psychiatry:
At Mind Align Psychiatry, we believe in a holistic and personalized approach to mental health care. One of the many innovative options we explore to provide effective solutions for condition like Lyme Disease. Begin your journey towards a healthier and more balanced life by visiting www.mindalignpsych.com or texting or calling 484-799-9211.
