What is Lyme disease?
Transmission by ticks
Lyme disease is primarily transmitted through the bite of certain ticks, especially blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks. These ticks are very small, with colours ranging from reddish-brown to black. In the nymph stage, they can be as tiny as a poppy seed and grow slightly larger in adulthood.
Removing and identifying a tick
You can’t tell just by looking if a tick carries the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. If you’ve been bitten, it’s important to remove the tick as quickly as possible. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward gently but steadily.
Monitoring after a tick bite
After removing the tick, it’s recommended to keep an eye on the bite area for the next few weeks. If you’re unsure what to do next, don’t hesitate to speak with an Accès pharma pharmacist who can guide you on the appropriate next steps.
Awareness and risk factors
Not all tick bites lead to Lyme disease, but it’s important to stay alert. The risk of infection depends largely on how long the tick remains attached to the skin, as transmission of the bacteria typically requires 24 hours or more.
What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?
Lyme disease symptoms can vary depending on the stage of infection.
Early-stage symptoms of Lyme disease (3 to 30 days)
In the early localized stage, the most recognizable sign is a Lyme disease rash often shaped like a bull’s-eye that gradually expands from the site of the tick bite. During this stage, people may also experience flu-like symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Chills
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Muscle and joint pain
Early disseminated Lyme disease symptoms (within 3 months)
If left untreated, the infection could progress to an early disseminated stage, during which the bacteria may spread throughout the body. At this point, Lyme disease symptoms could include:
- Systemic symptoms, such as general fatigue or a mild fever
- Musculoskeletal symptoms, like joint pain or muscle aches
- Neurological symptoms, such as numbness, tingling or difficulty with memory and concentration
- Cardiac symptoms, which may include palpitations or, more rarely, inflammation of the heart muscle (Lyme carditis)
- Ocular symptoms, though these are less common
Late-stage Lyme disease symptoms (after 3 months)
At a more advanced stage, complications may occur if Lyme disease is not detected or treated effectively. Symptoms can vary from person to person, both in intensity and in the order in which they appear. They may include:
- Arthritis affecting large joints (such as the knees) or facial paralysis
- General systemic symptoms, like fever, fatigue, or muscle pain (myalgia) — often occurring within the first two months after the tick bite
How is Lyme disease treated?
Lyme disease treatment generally depends on the stage at which the infection is diagnosed.
In the early stages, a course of oral antibiotics is usually effective. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include doxycycline, amoxicillin or cefuroxime, typically taken for two to three weeks.
In more advanced cases, especially when neurological or cardiac symptoms are present, intravenous antibiotics may be necessary. Symptom management may also involve pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce discomfort and inflammation.
It is essential to follow all medical instructions carefully and to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or return.
The pharmacist’s role in Lyme disease treatment
When treatment for Lyme disease is needed, a pharmacist supports the person affected by helping them understand their medication, follow the treatment plan correctly and manage symptoms. Pharmacists can:
- Check that the prescribed antibiotics are appropriate, based on the individual’s health situation
- Explain how to take the medication properly, including timing and duration
- Provide information about possible side effects and potential drug interactions
- Offer practical tips to help stay on track with the treatment and avoid missed doses
- Recommend over-the-counter products to relieve symptoms like pain, fever or inflammation
- Refer to a medical resource or clinic if symptoms persist or worsen
Preventing Lyme disease: pharmacy-based advice
In the event of a tick bite, a pharmacist is authorized to prescribe a preventive antibiotic treatment to help reduce the risk of developing Lyme disease. A pharmacist can also:
- Explain the dosage and duration of the antibiotic treatment, if a treatment has been started
- Provide guidance on possible side effects, drug interactions and important precautions
- Support treatment follow-up and recommend over-the-counter products to help manage symptoms like pain, fever or inflammation
- Pharmacists also play a role in prevention, by helping people take steps to protect themselves before a bite occurs. They can:
- Recommend an appropriate tick repellent (containing DEET, icaridin or lemon eucalyptus) and advise on the best format (spray, lotion, wipes) depending on age and context
- Offer clothing tips for high-risk areas — like wearing long, light-coloured, fitted clothing, and tucking pants into socks
- Explain the post-outdoor routine — how to inspect the body, clothes and scalp for ticks, and how to safely remove one if needed
- Share clear information about high-risk regions and the times of year when ticks that transmit Lyme disease are most active
- Emphasize the importance of seeking care promptly if a tick bite is discovered, to reduce the risk of infection
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Always consult your pharmacist or doctor for personalized care.
