Lyme disease is a tricky but common illness. There are those that disprove its existence, partially due to the difficulty in its diagnosis and its comorbidity with other forms of illnesses. However, Lyme disease is a real and pervading illness. Its effects can be felt immediately and obviously among its sufferers. The disease is transmitted to humans by infected deer tick, which often carry a contagious type of bacteria. The disease is common in North America, but in recent years has begun to spread across the country.
What is Lyme Disease?
If you’re unsure whether you have Lyme disease, consider asking for a checkup from your resident doctor. There will be some Lyme doctors in NJ, for example, that are readily available for consultation.
Some of the earliest symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, chills, headache, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. These can easily be mistaken for the flu, but if left unchecked, can further worsen. The longer term manifestations of Lyme disease, which can often be mistaken for another illness, include arthritis, severe fatigue and headaches, vertigo, sleep disturbances, and mental confusion.
Looking for a doctor who understands your situation is essential in ensuring that you don’t suffer these longer term backlashes of Lyme disease. Here are a few tips on how to find the right Lyme disease doctor for you:
Reputation
You’ll need a Lyme disease doctor who has had experience in treating the disease before. You’ll know this by the review they’ve received from former patients. Basing your decision off the reputation of a doctor may seem rather biased and personality-based, but it can really go a long way in finding someone who understands your situation and is willing to help.
Proximity
Another thing you’ll have to consider is how close your doctor is to you. For instance, if you live in New Jersey, you’ll want to look for Lyme doctors in NJ. This will ensure that you can easily keep in contact with your doctor should any complications arise.