For most people believe that Lyme disease are caused due to outdoor activities, as well as bites from tick. But another question has crept into the conversation over the years: can a child be born with Lyme disease?
Although it is still medically controversial, dozens of families and health advocates continue to congregate around the idea of congenital Lyme disease, and the potential for it to have an impact on the newborn. As awareness for children born with Lyme disease increases, the conversations around co-infections, signs/symptoms, diagnosis, and long-term health issues are progressing.
What Can It Mean to Be Born with Lyme Disease?
Born with Lyme disease means Lyme bacteria feasibly transfer from a pregnant mother to her child in utero.
Certain health experts contend that this transmission can only take place in rare situations, particularly when the mother’s infection goes unchecked. Others claim that scientific evidence is still needed.
No one answer is accepted by every medical organization because research is ongoing. Nevertheless, far too many parents report that their child became ill from very early in life.
Signs Families Often Notice
A broad list of symptoms can appear in children who are suspected to be born positive with Lyme disease. At times, the indicators appear in infancy. In others, symptoms do not appear until later.
Commonly discussed symptoms include:
Low Energy Levels
An estimated one in four children appears to be fatigued most of the time. They might have difficulty coping with everyday activities.
Learning and Focus Problems
As the child gets older, parents may notice some memory problems, inability to concentrate, and developmental delays.
Joint and Muscle Discomfort
Pains in the legs, arms, or joints can appear and disappear without knowing why.
Sleep and Mood Changes
However, some also report changes in the taste, sleep problems, anxiety, and some changes in emotions as well.
These malaises seldom indicate just Lyme disease. This is why evaluation by a physician is essential.
What Makes This Topic So Challenging?
A reason behind this enduring challenge is that Lyme disease itself is a difficult illness to diagnose. All questions do not lend themselves to a simple answer when it comes to testing.
That uncertainty can be frustrating for families living with a possible case of born with Lyme disease. For years, some parents go from specialist to specialist before they are given possible answers.
This ambiguity is made even more confusing by the medical community itself. Regarding congenital Lyme disease, doctors might give opinions that diverge deeply.
The Importance of Early Attention
Early medical attention is important, though, even if not for the inflammatory disease that is controversial. Parents should speak to certified healthcare suppliers if ongoing unexplained signs are noticed.
Recording medical history, symptoms and testing may give doctors an improved understanding of the condition in the child.
Families should also avoid making a self-diagnosis based on internet information.
Looking Ahead
Research is making increased noise surrounding Lyme disease, particularly about born with Lyme disease, and with it comes awareness. While one goal of those studies is to better guide treatment options for patients, families search for clear answers about what might have caused these unexplained childhood symptoms as new research is under way into what could have caused them.
For now, education remains important. Learning about the potential relationship between Lyme disease and pregnancy may help parents make educated choices about healthcare and seek assistance when necessary.
