Lyme Disease

Lyme disease can affect more than just your child’s joints — in some cases, it can trigger fatigue, mood changes, or neurological symptoms that linger long after the initial infection. At Pediatric Neuro-Immune Care in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, Daniel Shtraykher, DO, FAAP, and his team specialize in identifying and treating complex cases of Lyme disease and related co-infections. Their comprehensive, child-focused approach combines advanced testing, immune support, and personalized therapies to help your child recover and thrive. Call the office or request an appointment online today.

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is an infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. While early treatment with antibiotics usually leads to full recovery, some children continue to experience symptoms long after the initial infection — a condition sometimes referred to as chronic or persistent Lyme disease.'

At Pediatric Neuro-Immune Care, Dr. Shtraykher evaluates both acute and long-term cases of Lyme disease, focusing on how infection and immune activation may affect the brain, nervous system, and behavior.

What are the symptoms of Lyme disease in children?

Symptoms can vary widely depending on how long the infection has been present and whether it has affected the nervous system or immune function. Common signs include:

• Fatigue or low energy
• Headaches or dizziness
• Muscle and joint pain
• Low-grade fevers or chills
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Mood changes, anxiety, or irritability
• Trouble concentrating or “brain fog”
• Sleep disturbances
  

Some children may also develop a bull’s-eye rash (erythema migrans) near the bite site, although not all do. When untreated or under-treated, the infection can contribute to neuro-immune inflammation, leading to symptoms similar to PANS, PANDAS, or CIRS (mold-related illness).

How is Lyme disease diagnosed?

Because symptoms can mimic other illnesses, accurate testing and evaluation are key. Dr. Shtraykher begins with a detailed medical and exposure history and may order specialized lab work to detect Borrelia antibodies, immune markers, or evidence of co-infections such as Babesia or Bartonella. He may also assess for inflammation and environmental factors that can worsen symptoms.

How is Lyme disease treated?

Treatment depends on your child’s symptoms, lab results, and overall health. Dr. Shtraykher may recommend:

• Targeted antibiotic or antimicrobial therapy
• Anti-inflammatory or immune-modulating support
• Nutritional and detoxification therapies to reduce inflammation
• Lifestyle and environmental recommendations to minimize re-exposure
• Collaboration with therapists or educators to support cognitive or emotional recovery

Follow-up care is essential to track progress and adjust treatment as your child heals. Dr. Shtraykher and his team provide ongoing monitoring, ensuring your child’s immune system stabilizes and their quality of life continues to improve.

If your child shows lingering symptoms after a tick bite or previous infection, contact Pediatric Neuro-Immune Care in Brooklyn, New York, or request an appointment online today.