How to Find a Doctor Who Treats Lyme Disease

Several factors can influence the likelihood that treatment will be successful for patients seeking a doctor who treats Lyme disease. Research suggests that treatment outcomes may vary depending on the approach used and the clinician’s experience with tick-borne diseases.

According to a recent study, a higher treatment response was most closely associated with:

1. The use of antibiotics or a combination of antibiotics and other therapies;
2. A longer duration of treatment; and
3. Oversight by a clinician whose practice focuses on tick-borne diseases.

These findings are based on data from the MyLymeData patient registry, which was launched in 2015 and includes more than 13,000 patients.¹ Participants in the study were clinically diagnosed with Lyme disease.

There are several reasons why care from a clinician experienced in treating tick-borne infections may be associated with a higher treatment response. For purposes of transparency, my practice focuses on the treatment of tick-borne diseases.

Physicians who regularly treat Lyme disease often recognize a broader range of symptoms and complications associated with the infection. Lyme disease can affect the nervous system, joints, heart, and immune system, leading to symptoms that may be difficult to diagnose.

These clinicians may also rely more heavily on clinical judgment when evaluating patients, particularly because tests for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses are not always reliable.

Practices experienced with Lyme disease are also accustomed to treating a wide range of clinical presentations. Treatment approaches may include longer treatment courses, adjustments in antibiotic therapy, combination antibiotics, or intravenous antibiotics when appropriate.

Although a primary care physician or specialist can diagnose and treat Lyme disease—particularly in the early stages—managing patients with persistent or chronic symptoms can be more challenging.

Unfortunately, studies suggest that as many as 1 in 3 individuals with tick-borne infections remain ill during follow-up.

The role of clinicians experienced in treating tick-borne diseases should not be underestimated. All physicians play an important role in recognizing these complex infections and, when appropriate, referring patients to practices that specialize in their care.

Clinical Insight

Patients with persistent or complex symptoms often seek a doctor who treats Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections. Physicians familiar with these infections may be better equipped to recognize difficult cases and tailor treatment strategies when standard approaches are not effective.