Lyme disease is often associated with joint pain, fatigue, and the classic “bull’s-eye” rash– but many people are surprised to learn that dizziness can also be a symptom. Caused by the bite of an infected black-legged tick, Lyme disease can affect various parts of the body, including the nervous system. If you’re feeling off-balance or lightheaded and have recently spent time outdoors, it’s worth considering whether Lyme disease could be the cause. Continue reading to learn more!
For same-day tick bite and Lyme treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9. We welcome walk-in patients 7 days a week for fast, reliable care. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, simply check-in below.
Understanding Lyme Disease and The Symptoms
Lyme disease is an infectious illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It is primarily spread through the bite of infected ticks, most commonly in wooded or grassy areas. Early symptoms usually appear within 3 to 30 days after a bite and often include:
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle and joint aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- A red rash that may expand into a bull’s-eye shape
However, Lyme disease can also progress beyond these initial signs and begin to impact the nervous system, heart, and other body systems– leading to more complex symptoms, including dizziness.
How Lyme Disease Can Cause Dizziness
Dizziness from Lyme disease typically develops during later stages of infection, though it can occasionally appear earlier depending on how the disease spreads. When Lyme bacteria affect the central nervous system, the condition is known as neurologic Lyme disease or neuroborreliosis. This stage may involve inflammation in the brain and cranial nerves, which can interfere with balance and coordination.
Dizziness related to Lyme may feel like:
- Lightheadedness or feeling faint
- A sensation of spinning (vertigo)
- Unsteadiness when walking or standing
- Difficulty focusing or concentrating
These symptoms may come and go or worsen gradually. They’re often accompanied by other neurological symptoms such as facial drooping, shooting pains, numbness, or cognitive difficulties.
When To See a Medical Provider For Possible Lyme Disease
If you’re experiencing dizziness– especially along with fatigue, joint pain, or other flu-like symptoms– and have spent time in an area known for ticks, you should seek medical evaluation. The earlier Lyme disease is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat effectively with antibiotics. You should visit an urgent care center or contact a provider if:
- You develop dizziness after a known tick bite or outdoor exposure
- Your symptoms have been gradually worsening
- You experience neurological changes
- You notice signs of a Lyme rash, even if it has faded
An urgent care center can assess your symptoms, order necessary tests such as Lyme disease blood panels, and begin treatment if appropriate. In many cases, early intervention prevents long-term complications.
Get Walk-In Lyme Disease Testing at AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9 in Elizabeth, NJ
While dizziness isn’t one of the most common symptoms of Lyme disease, it can occur– particularly when the nervous system becomes involved. Don’t ignore feelings of imbalance, especially if they’re paired with other unusual symptoms. At AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9, our medical team is here to help you get answers and feel better quickly. Concerned about Lyme disease? Walk into our urgent care center today for fast, compassionate care and on-site testing. No appointment needed! We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about Lyme disease treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (908) 570-5801.
