Last Updated on March 5, 2025 by tanya

Lyme Disease Misdiagnosis

 

Medical Negligence – What You Need to Know

 

Lyme Disease can trigger a range of symptoms, so a Lyme Disease misdiagnosis can result. But this can leave a patient struggling if left untreated. Lyme Disease is caused by bacteria transmitted through tick bites. As this condition mimics a whole lot of other conditions, it is a bit of a medical chameleon.

In the early stage, Lyne Disease presents with typical flu symptoms, including fatigue, headaches and achy joints. However, whether a misdiagnosis amounts to medical negligence depends on various factors.

If you were misdiagnosed with a different condition when in fact you had a Lyme Disease, First Personal Injury can advise on the process to claim compensation. We partner with lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

 

Is Lyme Disease Often Misdiagnosed?

 

If left untreated, Lyme Disease can progress. This may lead to health issues with your heart, as well as causing chronic pain. Neurological symptoms have also resulted from a Lyme Disease misdiagnosis.

Common conditions which Lyme Disease may be mistaken for are Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) due to muscle weakness and numbness as similar symptoms.

Additionally, Lyme Disease can cause joint inflammation which mimics Rheumatoid Arthritis. Meanwhile Fibromyalgia symptoms of persistent muscle and joint pain, along with fatigue may lead to potential misdiagnosis. You can also suffer from mood swings, memory issues and brain fog with Lyme Disease which could be confused with a mental health disorder.

If a patient does not recall or mention being bitten by a tick, some medical professionals may not even consider testing for this condition.

 

How Is Lyme Disease Diagnosed?

 

The most well-known sign of Lyme Disease is known as the ‘bullseye rash’, but you may not notice it and not everyone gets it. If you have been exposed to ticks or been in a woody or grassy area, ensure you mention it to your GP. A blood test may confirm a diagnosis, but that is not fully reliable if the test is done too soon.

 

Can Misdiagnosis Lead to a Medical Negligence Claim?

 

Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare professional provides substandard care that directly results in harm to the patient. There are three key points to consider.

 

Duty of Care – The doctor or healthcare professional had a duty to provide a reasonable standard of care.

Breach of Duty – The care provided fell below what would be expected of a competent medical professional in the same situation.

Causation (Harm Caused) – The misdiagnosis directly led to harm, such as delayed treatment causing worsening symptoms or long-term health complications.

 

However, it is important to note that misdiagnosis is not always negligence. A lawyer who has a good understanding of medical negligence will be able to discuss the details and advise if you had a case for medical negligence. It is essential that you can show that a misdiagnosis directly caused you harm that would not have otherwise occurred.

 

Find Out More About A ‘No Win, No Fee’ Claim

 

If you feel you have been misdiagnosed, seek a second opinion. Make sure you keep all medical records, including tests, appointments and costs. If you feel you may have a case, it is worth seeking a legal opinion.

At First Personal Injury we partner with lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. . First Personal Injury offers expert advice and support if you have been misdiagnosed. Contact us today at 0333 358 2345 or complete our online contact form to arrange an initial, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you explore your options for pursuing a claim for compensation.