2. Fever and Chills: Your Body’s Initial Response
As the second most common symptom of early localized Lyme disease, fever and chills often accompany the erythema migrans rash. These symptoms are a result of your body’s immune response to the Borrelia burgdorferi infection. While fever and chills may be mild initially, they can become more severe as the infection progresses.
It’s important to differentiate between the fever and chills associated with Lyme disease and those caused by other illnesses. Pay close attention to any recent tick exposure or time spent in wooded or grassy areas. If you suspect Lyme disease, seeking medical attention is crucial, as early treatment with antibiotics can prevent the infection from progressing.
Since fever and chills are common symptoms of various illnesses, they are often overlooked or misdiagnosed as the flu or a viral infection. This is especially true when the telltale EM rash is absent. In such cases, be mindful of other accompanying symptoms and consider the possibility of Lyme disease.
Fever and chills can persist even after the initial stages of Lyme disease. If you’ve been diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease but continue to experience fever and chills, consult your healthcare professional, as this may be an indication that the infection has not been adequately treated or has progressed to a more advanced stage. (2)
