Lyme Disease

Live Well Wellness Center

Integrative Medical Center located in Chandler, AZ


Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses are highly complex and can cause many health issues. At Live Well Wellness Center, Jessica Schrand, NMD, and Michelle McConnell, NMD, are International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS)-certified, which means they have the highest skill levels in diagnosing and managing tick-borne diseases. Call the Chandler, Arizona, office or book an appointment online now.
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Lyme Disease Q&A

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection, which is mainly transmitted through certain types of ticks. But, mosquitos, spiders, and other insects may also transmit Borrelia burgdorferi or (rarely) Borrelia mayonii, the bacteria that cause Lyme disease.

What causes Lyme disease?

Most people get Lyme disease from the bite of a nymphal — a tiny immature tick. Because nymphals are tiny — about the diameter of the head of a pin — the bites are easy to miss. In rare cases, pregnant women can also spread Lyme disease to their developing baby.

Lyme disease is growing more common. More than 475,000 Americans are diagnosed with and treated for Lyme disease annually. But, the true number of people with Lyme disease is likely far higher because it's often misdiagnosed.

What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?

Lyme disease can affect any organ in your entire body, which is why it can cause such varied and widespread symptoms. Symptoms can mimic those of rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, Crohn's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, clinical depression, and many other conditions.


About 70-80% of people with Lyme disease develop an Erythema migrans (EM) rash in the area of the tick bite within a month of the bite.


​​​​​​​Some other common symptoms are:

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Forgetfulness

  • Muscle pain

  • Tendon soreness

  • Mental health changes - mood swings, irritability, depression

  • Fever

  • Chills

  • Severe headaches

  • Neck stiffness

  • Facial palsy (sagging or drooping in the face)

  • Joint pain and swelling

  • Unexplained weight changes

  • Heart palpitations

  • Dizziness

  • Breathing difficulties

  • Tingling, numbness, or pain in extremities


This is only a partial list of Lyme disease symptoms. You may experience other issues as well, which is why an accurate diagnosis is so important.

How is Lyme disease diagnosed?

Most people with Lyme disease have a number of tick-borne pathogens (co-infections) that also require diagnosis and treatment, particularly in the later stages of the disease. Lyme disease and its co-occurring infections are notoriously hard to diagnose, so the team uses the most advanced tests available.


​​​​​​​The Live Well Wellness Center team uses enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) screening to check for antibodies, as well as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to look for the genetic material of the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Antigen tests, which check for a specific protein only present in Lyme disease, are another option.

What is the treatment for Lyme disease?

The ILADS-certified naturopathic physicians at Live Well Wellness Center have extensive experience in treating Lyme disease.


In cases of chronic Lyme disease, the team uses a combination approach that includes antibiotics, intravenous (IV) therapy, medical-grade XYMOGEN® supplements, and antimicrobial herbs.


This blend of treatments can boost immune system function so your body can effectively fight harmful bacteria. In addition, diet and lifestyle changes can play a big role in maximizing your health with Lyme disease.


​​​​​​​Book your appointment by calling Live Well Wellness Center or scheduling online now.