duttonv,
Lyme disease is an infection that occurs when a deer tick, infected with the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, bites a human being, transmitting the bacterium to that person. Patients classically present with a target-shaped rash on an arm or leg, which eventually spreads. The infected person can also complain of joint aches and malaise, when in the early stage of infection. If diagnosed early, treatment is as simple as oral antibiotics for 2-3 weeks. If the diagnosis is delayed, all bets are off. There are a number of late complications, including neurological and cardiac problems, that make early diagnosis essential.
As far as you are concerned, my answer to your question would depend on 1.)how soon after infection did you receive the proper treatment; 2.) what were the symptoms you had at time of diagnosis; and 3.) how long since treatment has it been. I have read nothing in the medical literature that would suggest that persons cannot dive after being successfully treated for early Lyme disease. During treatment, you probably should not dive, because the symptoms of joint pain common to those infected with Lyme disease might mask symptoms of DCS.
If you were treated early and successfully (meaning you took all the medicine prescribed and went back for a re-check to your doctor), and you have no residual symptoms, chances are good that you will be okay to dive. If your treatment was delayed and/or you have residual symptoms (especially the neurological ones), you should hang up the fins and go see a physician familiar with diving risks before resuming your pastime.
Good luck,
Dan
This response is for information purposes only and should not be construed, in any way, as implying a doctor-patient relationship.
