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Many people who aren't treated make a good recovery. But if you are treated early, it relieves your symptoms, and it also protects you against Lyme disease appearing at a later stage, which can be more serious.

Studies show that Lyme disease is easy to treat in children. In one study of more than 200 children, most of them recovered within days or weeks if they had treatment.¹

A very small number of people who don't get treatment early go on to get long-term nerve damage.² This can affect the way you move your body and give you other unpleasant symptoms. For example, you may find it difficult to reach out for something or walk properly.

About 1 in 10 people who get arthritis as a symptom (swollen and painful joints) have continuing symptoms for months or even years after they've been treated.³ But the condition settles down in time.

A small number of people who have had the infection also get pain and extreme tiredness that can last for months or even years, even if they've been treated. This is sometimes called post-Lyme syndrome. Doctors aren't sure if it is triggered by a previous Lyme infection or if other conditions play a part.^{2 3}

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.