LYME DISEASE EFFECT ON THE EYES

In Alberta we are fortunate to have access to some of the world’s best natural areas to explore. As we enter our warmer months of the year, more of us are getting outdoors and with that comes the risk of exposure to bites from insects and ticks. While extremely uncommon, tick bites carry a risk of being infected with Lyme disease.

Lyme disease, a bacterial infection, results in a variety of symptoms. Initially there is often a circular rash at the site of the bite area that takes a “bull’s eye” appearance. This may be followed by flu-like symptoms (fever, joint pain, headache, fatigue and sore throat). Some suffer longer term consequences of Lyme disease – these are varied in nature and can include neurologic and auto-immune disorders such as memory loss, chronic fatigue, unexplained weight loss or gain, digestive issues, infections that won’t heal, and chronic pain.

Lyme disease can affect the eyes as well. Here are some of the symptoms our eye doctors have encountered with patients who have been diagnosed with (or have suspected) Lyme disease:

• Double vision
• Blurry vision
• Floating spots in vision
• Painful/swollen eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Persistent eye infections
• Inflamed parts of the eye (retina, cornea, optic nerve)

Keeping proper perspective, the risk of Lyme disease is very low in Alberta, even if you do get bitten by a tick. Due to the severity of some Lyme disease infections however, it makes sense to take precautions. Here is more info about how to avoid tick bites when traveling into the backcountry.

Unusual symptoms should always be evaluated by qualified medical professional, and our MVO doctors are here to help if you are experiencing any issues with your eyes or your vision. You can book an appointment with us using this link.