Loss of libido and Lyme disease
The list of complication of Lyme disease just got longer in the June 2014 issue of the International Neurologic Journal. [1] A cross-sectional pilot study carried out in the Breakspear neuroscience department in the United Kingdom reported that 50% of 16 serologically positive Lyme disease patients had a loss of libido compared to 0% in 18 controls.
by Daniel J. Cameron, MD MPH
A cross-sectional pilot study carried out in the Breakspear neuroscience department in the United Kingdom reported that 50% of 16 serologically positive Lyme disease patients had a loss of libido compared to 0% in 18 controls (p<.001) The loss of libido was not associated with detrusor muscle dysfunction or medications.
The investigators recommended further study including the use of a well-validated measure of libido. It would also be helpful to examine whether antibiotic treatment would reverse the loss of libido.
References:
- Puri BK, Shah M, Julu PO, Kingston MC, Monro JA. The association of lyme disease with loss of sexual libido and the role of urinary bladder detrusor dysfunction. International neurourology journal, 18(2), 95-97 (2014).
Nasser Shereef
09/08/2021 (5:04 am)
I suffered from typhus caused by tick bite two years ago. The skin around the bite spot got dead. Though it took a few days for diagnosis as tick bites are rare in the region where I live, it was completely cured. But I have noticed recently that my libido is going down. I would like to know if I can get back my libido without treatment over the course of time.
Dr. Daniel Cameron
09/09/2021 (7:46 pm)
I have not been able to find any additional information of libido and Lyme disease. I have advised my patients to make sure Lyme disease is treated in case that is helpful while also seeing a urologist.
Desiree
08/05/2014 (8:40 pm)
I would strongly suggest after losing libido for several years due to Lyme disease and co-infections that libido can return with antibiotic treatment. I am far from being “cured” but some symptoms have at least subsided for the time being (many symptoms are returning after approximately 9 months without treatment) libido being one of those symptoms. Hope this helps or offers even a small amount of hope for some.