What You Need To Know Before Getting Tested For Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a serious infection that can have a lasting impact on your health. If you think you may have been exposed to Lyme disease, it's important to get tested as soon as possible. There are a few different types of tests available for Lyme disease. The most common is the ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) test, which looks for antibodies in your blood that are produced in response to a Lyme infection (via Mayo Clinic). The other type of test is the Western blot test, which can confirm the presence of Lyme antibodies. This test is usually only ordered if the ELISA test comes back positive.

Lyme disease testing is usually covered by insurance, but you may have to pay a co-pay or deductible. If you don't have insurance, the cost of testing can range from $20 to over $100, according to Walk-In Lab. It's important to remember that Lyme disease is a serious infection, and it's important to get treated as soon as possible. If you think you may have been exposed to Lyme disease, make an appointment with your doctor and get tested. early diagnosis and treatment are critical to preventing long-term health problems.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. The most common symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, fatigue, and a distinctive rash (via The CDC). Other symptoms can include joint pain, muscle aches, and neurological problems. If left untreated, Lyme disease can spread to the joints, heart, and nervous system. While death is rare, untreated Lyme disease can cause lasting health issues (via Johns Hopkins Medicine).

The best treatment for Lyme disease will depend on your age, your health, and how severe your condition is. The most common treatment is a course of antibiotics, which can be taken orally or intravenously. If you're pregnant, have a heart condition, or are allergic to certain antibiotics, your doctor will work with you to find the best treatment option for you. Preventing Lyme disease is key to avoiding its potentially serious effects. The best way to prevent Lyme disease is to avoid tick bites. To do this, you should wear bug repellent while outside, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, and avoid areas with high grass.