Lyme Disease Treatment in California: Can You Fully Recover?

As spring and summer approach in California, outdoor activities increase—and so does the risk of tick bites and Lyme disease. While Lyme disease is more common in the Northeastern U.S., cases in California’s wooded and grassy areas are on the rise. If untreated, Lyme disease can lead to nerve damage, memory loss, and heart complications.

Can You Fully Recover From Lyme Disease?

Over 30,000 Americans are diagnosed with Lyme disease yearly, but many cases go unreported. While early treatment leads to full recovery, delayed diagnosis can result in chronic symptoms. That’s why it’s critical to recognize the signs and seek treatment as soon as possible.

Where is Lyme Disease Found in California?

Lyme disease in California is most prevalent in:

• Northern California (Marin, Sonoma, Mendocino, Humboldt counties)
• San Francisco Bay Area (wooded and grassy parks)
• Sierra Nevada region
• Coastal forests

Ticks thrive in tall grass, shrubs, and wooded areas, so hikers, campers, and outdoor workers should take extra precautions.

Symptoms & Diagnosis of Lyme Disease

Early Symptoms (Within 30 Days of a Tick Bite)

• Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches)
• Bulls-eye rash (erythema migrans)—red rash around the bite site (not always present)
• Headaches & joint pain

If you develop flu symptoms after a tick bite—even without a rash—contact a California-based Lyme disease specialist immediately.

How is Lyme Disease Diagnosed?

A two-step blood test checks for antibodies in your blood. Since these antibodies take weeks to develop, multiple tests may be required for an accurate diagnosis.

Stages & Treatment of Lyme Disease

Within 72 Hours of a Tick Bite

• If a tick has been attached for 24+ hours in an area known for Lyme disease, a preventive round of antibiotics may be prescribed.
• The infection window is small, so early medical intervention is critical.

Early-Stage Lyme Disease (First Few Weeks)

• A 10-20 day course of antibiotics (usually doxycycline) is highly effective when started early.
• Patients in California who receive early treatment recover fully.

Late-Stage Lyme Disease (Weeks to Months After Infection)

• If untreated, Lyme disease can spread to the nervous system, joints, and heart, causing:
  • Severe joint pain (Lyme arthritis)
  • Memory loss & brain fog
  • Nerve damage (numbness, tingling, Bell’s palsy)
  • Heart irregularities (Lyme carditis)
• Treatment may require IV antibiotics and a longer recovery period.

Chronic Lyme Disease & Long-Term Effects

What is Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS)?

• 10-20% of Lyme patients experience persistent symptoms after completing antibiotics.
• Common long-term symptoms:
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Joint & muscle pain
  • Cognitive issues (brain fog, difficulty focusing)
  • Sleep disturbances

Is Lyme Disease Ever Fully Cured?

• Early treatment leads to full recovery.
• Some patients experience long-term flare-ups and require ongoing symptom management.

Preventing Lyme Disease in California

• Avoid tick-heavy areas in Northern California’s forests and coastal regions.
• Wear long sleeves & pants while hiking or camping.
• Use insect repellent with DEET or permethrin.
• Check for ticks after outdoor activities and remove them with tweezers.
• Monitor for symptoms even if no rash appears.

BASS Medical Group: California’s Experts in Lyme Disease Treatment

If you’ve been bitten by a tick or are experiencing flu-like symptoms, don’t wait—seek medical care immediately. BASS Medical Group offers Lyme disease treatment at multiple Bay Area locations, ensuring you receive expert care and early diagnosis.

Schedule an Appointment Today

• Call your primary care provider
• Visit our offices
• Fill out our online contact form

Early detection is key to preventing long-term complications from Lyme disease. Trust BASS Medical Group to provide the care you need.