Home / Conditions & Treatments / Lyme Disease

Lyme Disease

Blacklegged tick, or deer tick, on a blue cloth towel.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted by blacklegged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks. It’s common in many parts of the U.S., including Northern California. Early detection is crucial, as Lyme disease can cause flu-like symptoms and, if untreated, lead to joint pain, neurological issues, or heart problems. Prompt treatment typically results in full recovery.

  • Fever, chills, and fatigue
  • Headache or muscle aches
  • Bullseye-shaped rash (erythema migrans)
  • Joint swelling or stiffness
  • Facial palsy or nerve pain
  • Irregular heartbeat in later stages
  • Antibiotics (typically doxycycline or amoxicillin) for 2–4 weeks
  • IV antibiotics in cases of neurological or cardiac involvement
  • Symptom management for fatigue, joint pain, and inflammation
  • Ongoing care for those with post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS)
    • Bite from an infected deer tick (Ixodes scapularis or pacificus)
    • Outdoor activity in wooded or grassy areas
    • Not removing the tick promptly or properly
    • Lack of protective clothing or repellents during hikes

    Healthcare Providers

    Symptoms

  • Fever, chills, and fatigue
  • Headache or muscle aches
  • Bullseye-shaped rash (erythema migrans)
  • Joint swelling or stiffness
  • Facial palsy or nerve pain
  • Irregular heartbeat in later stages
  • Causes

    • Bite from an infected deer tick (Ixodes scapularis or pacificus)
    • Outdoor activity in wooded or grassy areas
    • Not removing the tick promptly or properly
    • Lack of protective clothing or repellents during hikes

    Treatments

  • Antibiotics (typically doxycycline or amoxicillin) for 2–4 weeks
  • IV antibiotics in cases of neurological or cardiac involvement
  • Symptom management for fatigue, joint pain, and inflammation
  • Ongoing care for those with post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS)
  • Specialties That Treat This Condition

    Related Conditions

    No items found.
    The BASS Doctors

    Not sure where to start?

    Request an appointment today and get a personalized treatment plan from our trusted BASS specialists.
    Contact Us Today!