What is the first symptom of Lyme disease? What are the symptoms of Lyme disease in humans?

The first symptom of Lyme disease is usually a circular, red rash called erythema migrans, which appears at the site of the tick bite after 3 to 30 days.  The rash may have a clear center, resembling a bull’s-eye pattern.

The rash may feel warm but not itchy or painful. However, not everyone with Lyme disease develops this rash, and some people might have other early symptoms instead. Other early symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes.

Common symptoms in humans also include other skin rashes, Bell’s palsy, numbness or tingling in the arms or legs; cognitive difficulties, such as memory problems or difficulty concentrating; heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat (Lyme carditis); and joint pain and swelling, especially in larger joints like the knees.

Wearing long pants and sleeves, using insect repellents, checking for ticks after spending time outdoors, and keeping the surroundings clean and free of ticks are some of the ways to prevent Lyme disease.