In the state of New York, ticks run rampant. Unfortunately, this is one of the prime locations to contract a tick-borne illness, such as Lyme disease. Because the symptoms for a tick bite, and subsequently Lyme disease, are so wide-ranging, it’s common for people to receive a misdiagnosis. We’ve covered the dangers of Lyme disease misdiagnosis in a previous blog. In this article, we’re going to shed some light on some Common Lyme disease myths. If you’ve suffered from Lyme disease and have been misdiagnosed, contact your experienced NYC Disease Malpractice Attorney today to build your personal injury case.
Myths #1: No rash means no Lyme disease.
This is false. As we’ve mentioned, the symptoms and reactions of a tick bite vary person to person. So, just because you didn’t have the hallmark “bullseye” red rash at the site, it doesn’t mean you never got bit.
Myth #2: You didn’t feel a bite, so you don’t have Lyme disease.
This is also false. According to IGENEX, many cases of Lyme disease are caused by ticks in the nymphal stage, which are very small – about the size of a poppy seed – and difficult to see. What’s more, ticks drop off once they’ve finished feeding, so you may not have a chance to notice it. The toxin in their saliva also numbs the victim, which is why most people don’t have any recollection or knowledge of being bitten by a tick.
Myth #3: Only one type of tick transmits Lyme disease.
The deer tick is the most common transmitter of disease, yes. However, there are several species of tick that can spread Lyme, such as the Lone Star tick.
Myth #4: Lyme disease isn’t a chronic condition.
This is one of the biggest and harmful misconceptions surrounding Lyme disease. While it can start out relatively mild, untreated and misdiagnosed Lyme disease can progress and cause chronic health issues. Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) is common, and includes symptoms such as:
- Neuropathy
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Cognitive defects, such as memory loss
- Facial palsy
- Joint inflammation
Contact Your Medical Malpractice Attorney
If you have received a wrong diagnosis and your Lyme disease was left unchecked and untreated, an NYC Medical Malpractice lawyer can help. We understand the frustration of a misdiagnosis and the dire consequences of this disease, and we have helped thousands of injury victims receive the help and monetary reward for pain and suffering which they deserve. Contact the law offices of Ronemus & Vilensky today by calling 212-779-7070, or filling out our free, no-obligation free consultation today.
