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16 Facts You Need To Know About Lyme Disease

Home Lyme Disease16 Facts You Need To Know About Lyme Disease
This article gives you facts about Lyme disease to help you protect yourself & your family. Prevention is key to avoid getting Lyme.

16 Facts You Need To Know About Lyme Disease

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Last Updated on January 2, 2021 by Lori Geurin

You’ve probably heard that Justin Bieber was recently diagnosed with Lyme disease. Yet even before he shared this, people have been talking more about Lyme — and with good reason. According to top Duke oncologist, Dr. Neil Spector,

“Lyme is the infectious disease equivalent of cancer.”

-Dr. Neil Spector

(Want our FREE Lyme disease download that’ll give you the signs, symptoms, and stages of Lyme? Simply click the link below for the printable PDF.)

DOWNLOAD THE PDF NOW!

Dr. Spector had to have a heart transplant because of irreversible heart failure which was caused by undiagnosed Lyme disease and passed away from

Hundreds of thousands of Americans are infected with Lyme each year. It’s now 6 times more common than AIDS. And nearly 2 times more common than breast cancer.

You may have heard of the bacteria called Borrelia Burgdorferi that causes Lyme. This is the one that people talk about the most. But, in fact,

“There are 5 subspecies of Borrelia Burgdorferi, over 100 strains in the USA, and 300 strains worldwide. This diversity is thought to contribute to the antigenic variability of the spirochete and its ability to evade the immune system and antibiotic therapy, leading to chronic infection.” (1)

-International Lyme And Associated Diseases (ILADS)

The bacterium is a spiral-shaped spirochete. Try saying that 5 times fast.

But all joking aside, Lyme disease is no laughing matter. In fact, it’s a grim topic for any of the millions of us who have it or have had it. Lyme is a worldwide disease and has been reported in all 50 states. 

Below you’ll learn what you need to know about Lyme disease.

16 Interesting Facts About Lyme Disease

1. Lyme disease is a national epidemic.

Over 427,000 cases of Lyme disease are reported each year, according to the CDC. This is 10 times more than previously reported.

Furthermore, Lyme is under-diagnosed and under-reported. This means that there are many people who have Lyme and co-infections but don’t have a diagnosis and are not receiving treatment.

2. Lyme is called “The Great Imitator.”

This is because it can mimic other conditions such as arthritis, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, fibromyalgia, Bells Palsy, ALS, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, MS, ADD, Lupus, and others.

This also makes it difficult to diagnose because it looks like so many other diseases.

Ticks can carry many diseases including Lyme and other tick-borne diseases.

3. Less than 50% of Lyme disease patients recall a tick bite. 

The ticks are often the size of a poppy seed and go undetected. A tick can be as tiny as the period at the end of this sentence. (2)

4. Less than 50% of Lyme disease patients recall a rash. 

Despite what you may have heard, many people never get a bulls-eye rash. Some may encounter other types of rashes, but many don’t recall a rash at all. (3, 4)

5. Lyme disease impacts 6 times more people in the U.S. than HIV/AIDS, yet it receives less than 1% of the funding.

And Lyme is nearly twice as common as breast cancer. Yet insurance doesn’t cover long-term treatment for chronically ill Lyme patients. So they have to pay out-of-pocket for expensive treatments.

As a result, many cannot work anymore. Some have even lost their homes simply trying to pay for proper medical care. Something is very wrong with this picture.

Related: Warning: Lyme Disease Is Spreading Faster Than AIDS

6. According to the CDC, Lyme disease is the fastest-growing vector-borne disease (VBD) in the U.S.

Vectors include ticks, mosquitoes, flies, parasites, sandflies, fleas, and freshwater snails.

Related: CDC Reports VBDs Way Up

7. Anyone can get Lyme disease. 

But children and those with lower immune function are among the most susceptible. People exposed to mold, parasites, and systemic infection are also especially vulnerable.

Related: How To Strengthen Your Immune System Naturally

8. There are 5 subspecies of Borrelia Burgdorferi (the Lyme spirochete), over 100 strains in the U.S., and 300 strains worldwide. (5)

And the alarming fact is that these spirochetes are adapting to the environment. They can actually change forms to evade antibiotics.

The different forms include:

  • the cyst form
  • cell-wall-deficient form
  • spirochete form.

Also, the tests used to diagnose Lyme only test for one strain of Lyme disease bacteria and are notoriously inaccurate. (More on this below, in number 11.)

9. The number of cases of Lyme reported annually has increased nearly 25-fold since national surveillance started in 1982. (6)

And that doesn’t even include all the unreported cases.

10. Lyme is transmitted by a tick bite. 

Ticks are everywhere. They know no borders. So if you are sick and have Lyme disease symptoms go to a Lyme-literate doctor. Here’s a link where you can go to find a doctor who specializes in treating patients with Lyme disease.

Also, according to Dr. Willie Burgdorfer, the man who discovered Lyme disease, spirochetes were found in mosquitoes and horse flies. However, they don’t yet know the rate of transmission by these vectors. (7)

Related: Experts Warn Of Increased Lyme Disease Risk

11. The most commonly given Lyme disease test is the ELISA test.

There are many legitimate concerns about Lyme disease test accuracy.

For example, the most widely used test is unreliable and may miss over 50% of culture-proven Lyme disease. (8) Currently, the most sensitive test is the IgG and ImG Western Blot tests, available through the IGeneX Lab in Palo Alto.

12. People who spend a lot of time outdoors are more likely to get Lyme. 

If you spend time working outside in the grass or woods apply a tick-repellent before going out. And make sure to be vigilant to check for ticks when you come inside.

Also, it’s best to remove your clothes when you come inside and wash and dry them. Finally, check thoroughly for ticks before taking a shower.

This may sound like a lot of work, but it’s so much better than the alternative. For more ways to protect yourself from Lyme disease and tick bites, you’ll wanna check out Top 10 Ways To Prevent Lyme Disease (And Other Tick-Borne Diseases)

13. Test for other tick-borne illnesses too. 

Examples of these co-infections include Babesia, Tularemia, Anaplasma, Bartonella, Rocky Mountain Spotted Tick Fever, and Ehrlichia. If any of these or others are present and left untreated it can reduce the chance of successful Lyme disease treatment. (9)

14. There are no studies that show 30 days of antibiotic treatment cure chronic Lyme disease. 

According to ilads.org, “Short treatment courses have resulted in upwards of a 40% relapse rate, especially if treatment is delayed.” (10)

Related: 21 Strategies To Fight Lyme Disease Naturally

15. When first bitten, common symptoms include …

  • flu-like symptoms
  • headaches
  • dizziness
  • fainting
  • fatigue
  • muscle pain
  • vision problems
  • nausea
  • loss of appetite
  • swollen glands
  • rashes
  • neck stiffness and pain
  • trouble sleeping
  • chills
  • sweats. 

You can read The Signs, Symptoms, And Stages Of Lyme Disease for more details about the wide variety of symptoms you can have with Lyme.

16. Lyme can cause long-term complications when it goes untreated. 

And, unfortunately, the average Lyme disease patient sees 5 different doctors over the course of about 2 years before being diagnosed. This was my experience too.

By this time, the disease can do tremendous damage to the body, and patients often end up having long-term health problems. (11) At this point, it is called late-stage, or chronic Lyme.

Related: Untreated Lyme Disease: In Pursuit Of A New Normal

Chronic Lyme Disease Symptoms Include:

  • Extreme exhaustion not relieved by sleeping or resting
  • Inability to control facial muscles
  • Heart problems, such as pericarditis
  • Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet
  • Arthritis, often in the larger joints, such as the knees
  • Short-term memory loss
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty thinking or reasoning
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Getting lost in familiar places
  • Anxiety, panic attacks
  • Seizures
  • Tremor
  • Sensitivity to sound, light, and smells
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Mood swings, depression
  • Sleep disorders
  • Migrating joint and muscle pain
  • Vertigo
  • Difficulty hearing
  • Vision difficulties
  • Weight gain or loss
  • “Air hunger”
  • Pain in the chest or ribs
  • “Heart block”
  • Neck pain, stiffness, and cracking
  • Night sweats
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Heart murmur or valve prolapse
  • Light-headedness, dizziness
  • Menstrual irregularity
16 Interesting Facts About Lyme Disease LoriGeurin.com

More About The Symptoms & Stages Of Lyme

Several years ago when I had many of the most common symptoms of Lyme disease and none of the doctors could figure out what was wrong with me I was desperate for answers. I spent many hours researching on my own, working to figure out what was causing all of my health problems.

Thankfully, I was eventually tested for Lyme and co-infections and diagnosed with Lyme and tularemia. Yet, so many people are still searching and wondering why they’re suffering from the symptoms above.

Maybe you’ve been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, autoimmune conditions or chronic fatigue syndrome – as I was at first.

But, like me, you wonder, what is causing all of this? Why am I in pain and exhausted all the time?

I created a Lyme resource to help answer your questions. The guide gives you:

  • more details about Lyme and other tick-borne diseases
  • valuable information on diagnosis and testing
  • where to find financial help for Lyme patients
  • prevention tips
  • instructions for how to properly remove a tick
  • and more…

all based on research. Simply click on the green button below to learn more.

Lyme Disease 101 Guide

Summary – Facts About Lyme Disease

As you can see, Lyme is a serious, debilitating disease that affects so many people. Likewise, it’s crucial to know the facts about Lyme disease.

Most of all, I hope this article has helped you learn more about Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses so you can protect yourself and your family.


Do you know anyone with Lyme or tick-borne disease? What do you think about these facts about Lyme disease? Did any of them surprise you?

Please share your thoughts, questions and experiences below.  


Reporter, Linda Simmons from KY3 News interviewed me about my experience with Lyme disease. You can watch the interview here.

If you enjoyed these facts about Lyme disease, you’ll want to check out:

  • Celebrities With Lyme Disease
  • Coronavirus Information For People With Lyme Disease
  • Is Chronic Lyme Disease Real? Part 1
  • Is Chronic Lyme Disease Real? Part 2
  • Lyme Disease Awareness
  • Living With Lyme Disease, Part 1
  • Living With Lyme Disease, Part 2
  • Author Marlena Lewis Writes About Life Struggles And Lyme Disease

Finally, the information provided in this article has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to treat, prevent, diagnose, or cure any disease or health problem.

Connect With Me Below:

Pinterest — /LoriGeurin
Facebook — /LoriGeurinBlog
Twitter — @LoriGeurin
Instagram — @lorigeurin
Bloglovin — lorigeurin
Email — wellnessforlife@lorigeurin.com

Also, this post contains affiliate links. You can read our Affiliate Policy here.

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About Lori Geurin

Lori Geurin, CLC, CHHWC, is the Founder and CEO of LoriGeurin.com and a former Special Education teacher. When her life was disrupted by a debilitating illness she began researching everything she could to regain her health. Married to David, mama to 4, dog mom to 2 Boston Terriers, healing from Lyme, and research nerd. Lori loves the beach, kayaking, concerts, reading, and sunshine.

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37 Comments

Leave your reply.
  • Rachee
    · Reply

    October 25, 2017 at 2:09 AM

    A co-worker had Lyme Disease and boy did she go through it! I spent a bunch of time outdoors this summer and was fortunate not to get bit.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 11:12 AM

      Oh, I’m so sorry to hear about your co-worker! I hope she’s doing better now. Thanks so much for sharing.

  • Roxanne
    · Reply

    October 23, 2017 at 10:05 AM

    It is definitely an epidemic. Growing up I never heard of Lyme and we never used bug spray unless in the deep woods. Today, we don’t play anywhere without precaution.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 11:13 AM

      So true, Roxanne! It’s great that you’re taking precautions.

  • Jean
    · Reply

    October 23, 2017 at 2:41 AM

    This is such a scary disease and it sounds as though it’s very much on the increase. I’ve heard of it before but don’t know anyone who has it. Thanks so much for sharing and helping to raise awareness.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 11:13 AM

      Thanks so much, Jean!

  • Journa Ramirez
    · Reply

    October 23, 2017 at 12:32 AM

    We need to be aware of this disease, we don’t know how hard it is for other people who are suffering from it. Sending lots of love!

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 11:14 AM

      Awww, thanks, Journa! That’s so kind of you to say.

  • Nailil
    · Reply

    October 22, 2017 at 10:42 PM

    This was so informative. I had no idea about the severity and it worries me as I spend time outside, as well as my little ones. Thanks for sharing.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 10:33 AM

      I love spending time outdoors too…I don’t want to cause undue worry, just want people to be aware. 🙂 Lyme is preventable, so using tick repellent and checking for ticks when you come back inside are some effective strategies for helping to keep your family safe. Thanks!

  • AnnMarie John
    · Reply

    October 22, 2017 at 7:14 PM

    I’ve always known that it’s a threat and that you should definitely make sure that you’re safe from it, but I never knew the depth of Lyme disease and all the facts. This is really informative!

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 10:19 AM

      Thank you, AnnMarie!

  • Cindy Ingalls
    · Reply

    October 22, 2017 at 6:21 PM

    I had no idea Lyme Disease was on the rise. It’s so scary because I know how debilitating it can be for anyone who contracts it.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 10:17 AM

      This is so true, Cindy – Thanks!

  • Angela Tolsma
    · Reply

    October 22, 2017 at 8:08 AM

    It is actually crazy how many people I know who have lyme disease and how long it took for them to be diagnosed. It is definitely something that needs more awareness, because it is preventable!

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 10:16 AM

      Wow, I really hate to hear this! I’m so sorry your friends have been through this too. Unfortunately it’s happening way too often.

      And you’re right – it is preventable. I’m ready for all the needless suffering to stop! We’re seeing some movement in the right direction, like the CDC coming out a couple of years ago, admitting to drastic under-reporting of the disease. But SO much more needs to be done in the areas of diagnostic practices, increased funding for research, increasing the length of treatments and some doctors accepting that Lyme is everywhere. (stepping down off my soapbox, for now)

      I’m so thankful that there are some awesome doctors out there who are educated on the facts about Lyme and care deeply about helping Lyme patients heal.

  • Katrina
    · Reply

    October 22, 2017 at 6:24 AM

    Thanks you for educating me on this, I had no idea there were so many symptoms to look out for!

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 10:05 AM

      Hey, you’re so welcome – Thanks, Katrina!

  • Quirky Homemaker
    · Reply

    October 21, 2017 at 9:43 PM

    Lyme disease is so scary to me! There have been reported cases in our area and we’ve had a couple bad tick years. My family thinks I’m a little neurotic about checking for ticks, but I feel I have good reason! Thanks for sharing these Lyme disease facts with us.

  • Christia Colquitt
    · Reply

    October 21, 2017 at 5:24 PM

    Lyme disease is so scary. I have had several friends affected. Thank you for this information.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 10:05 AM

      I’m so sorry about your friends. :,( I hope they’re getting the help and treatments they need. Lyme is an awful disease.

  • Joanna @ Everyday Made Fresh
    · Reply

    October 21, 2017 at 3:30 PM

    I didn’t realize how likely someone is to get lyme disease until a friend of mine’s little girl contracted it. This is a great post with a lot of helpful info that we all need to be aware of!

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 10:00 AM

      I’m so sorry about your friend’s little girl. I hope and pray she’s doing better. Thanks, Joanna.

  • Morgan Bourgeois
    · Reply

    October 21, 2017 at 12:44 PM

    I think it is great that you took the time to really explain this disease. I had no idea what it was about at all, and as a pre-med student, I the knowledge I have gained from this post is great.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 9:58 AM

      Thanks, Morgan!

  • Jessica Joachim
    · Reply

    October 20, 2017 at 8:53 PM

    I feel like this is something that everyone has heard of, but not a lot of people know a lot about. I think it is great that you are spreading more information so people can be more aware of this disease.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 9:58 AM

      I think you’re exactly right that people have heard of Lyme but aren’t necessarily familiar with what is actually is. This was me before I got it. Thank you, Jessica.

  • Karen Morse
    · Reply

    October 20, 2017 at 7:32 PM

    Lyme disease should be something that we pay more attention to especially since it can be really dangerous.I didn’t know that it received so little funding! That’s alarming to say the least.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 9:46 AM

      I agree completely, Karen. The prevalence of Lyme has been minimized for far too long and it’s really devastating when not treated. It is alarming and impacting so many people right now. Something has to change.

  • Erica
    · Reply

    October 20, 2017 at 5:29 PM

    This is really terrifying. I was diagnosed with Lyme disease at 20. And I was given an antibiotic and it went away. I did have to breath with an inhaler for a while because my breathing had become compromised. But I didn’t know much about Lyme back then and am always overcome by how horrible it can be. I guess I was really lucky.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 9:42 AM

      It truly is….I’m so thankful you were treated promptly and were able to overcome Lyme, Erica. For several years I had shortness of breath due to the Lyme. It was like I could never catch my breath…I’m not sure if this is the same as what you experienced. At any rate, I’m so glad your body was able to heal!

  • Tara
    · Reply

    October 20, 2017 at 4:55 PM

    This is so informative. It’s so important as you know to help educate people. Thanks for collecting all the right info here.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 9:36 AM

      Thanks, Tara. I agree!

  • beti paunkoska
    · Reply

    October 20, 2017 at 1:10 PM

    Lyme disease is a bacterial infection. I know people who past real hel with this disease. Its good to be informed thank you .

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 9:34 AM

      Thank you. I’m sorry for the people you know who have/had Lyme. I hope they’ve received treatment and are doing better.

  • Kansas Bonanno
    · Reply

    October 20, 2017 at 12:55 PM

    We live in a really woody area and this is my biggest fear. This is the number one thing we always search for whenever we go outside to play.

    • Lori Geurin
      · Reply

      Author
      October 26, 2017 at 9:32 AM

      It’s so good that you’re aware and check for ticks – Prevention is key!

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