Lyme disease is a type of infection that is caused by a type of bacterium known as borrelia burgdorferi. The disease is carried by ticks, and is most commonly spread when a tick carrying the bacterium feeds on the blood of an animal or human. People who live in areas where ticks are common are at the highest risk of developing Lyme disease.

Those who spend time in wooded or grassy areas where ticks live and breed are also at risk for being bitten by a tick and getting the disease. As a result, it is very important to take precautions when spending time in such areas. People are advised to use tick repelling products and to thoroughly check themselves for ticks after spending time in places where ticks are prevalent.

If you discover that you have been bitten by a tick, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of Lyme disease or to be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. When detected in the early stages, Lyme disease can usually be cured with prescription antibiotics, and patients typically do not experience any lasting symptoms. When the disease progresses, however, a number of problems can arise. Advanced Lyme disease causes a number of different symptoms that are often severe enough to interfere with one's every day life.

In the early stages, the most common sign of Lyme disease is a bull's-eye shaped rash that originates in the area of the tick bite. This rash normally starts out as a small red bump and expands to a rash that can be up to 12 inches in width. The rash is often accompanied by flu-like symptoms including chills, fever, body aches, and headaches.

\ When Lyme disease reaches a more advanced stage, however, it can cause more severe complications. Joint pain and swelling as the disease progresses, and the inflammation can become permanent if the disease is not treated. Lyme disease can also cause temporary paralysis of the face, weakness and numbness in the limbs, and impaired muscle movement. When left untreated, these symptoms can last for weeks, months, or even years.