An expert driver knows the importance of having full attention and sharp attention. A slight issue with physical coordination and concentration may cause safety risks to the driver and passengers. Those with chronic health issues often face challenges while driving a car. Sadly, Lyme disease is a condition that can affect your ability to drive a vehicle safely. This tick-borne infection degrades your cognitive function and nervous system. So, it puts you at risk when you drive a car. 

Which symptoms affect your driving ability?

Lyme rash is a common symptom that can be noticed on the skin. The red rash appears within a few days of the tick bite. However, a few other signs will negatively affect your driving ability.

Cognitive problems

Severe Lyme disease can cause cognitive disturbances that prevent a driver from running a vehicle efficiently. People affected with Lyme cannot maintain concentration, which is crucial for every driver. This disease also affects the ability to process information.

Headaches and dizziness

Lyme disease can lead to various flu-like symptoms, such as dizziness and headaches. Within a week of being affected by the tick, you could experience these signs. 

However, it is challenging to identify the disease if you have mild symptoms. Most importantly, Lyme flu-like symptoms appear intermittently.

Achy and stiff joints

While driving the car, you may feel joint stiffness and pain. Early Lyme symptoms are swollen and inflamed joints that are warm to the touch. You may also feel pain in these joints.

In some cases, Lyme disease can affect multiple joints. Thus, if you feel the ache, it can prevent you from driving the car properly.

Fatigue

People with Lyme disease feel tired and lack energy. Remember that your regular tiredness differs from Lyme fatigue. You will lose the desire to do any activity. Moreover, you will feel the need to sleep for longer.

Untreated Lyme symptoms can lead to several other complications. You may experience a heart block and paralyzed facial muscles. So, you must manage your symptoms and improve your alertness. It is also essential to keep your car in the best condition to take away a potential risk factor. For instance, a scheduled service for a Mercedes-Benz will ensure your vehicle is in prime condition and will look out for you when you need it most. 

How do doctors treat Lyme disease?

For primary treatment, doctors prescribe antibiotics like amoxicillin. However, the duration of the treatment depends on the severity of the infection. So, treat the disease quickly to avoid complications.

Some people also experience post-treatment Lyme syndrome. But, it does not mean that they are still infected. 

Can you prevent Lyme disease?

In most cases, immature ticks cause infection during the early autumn and late spring. You can spray permethrin on your clothing to repel ticks. Any insect repellent can be used to avoid the ticks. However, you must not overuse it, as the chemical can cause harm.

Lyme disease can cause various symptoms that affect your driving capabilities. It is better to avoid driving a car if you experience severe issues. The right medications will cure your disease within a few days!