Lyme Disease, Dartmouth, and the Importance of Infectious Disease Screening
By Tharb Faisl
“Our cancer screening can be part of a broader longevity health screening, which checks multiple organ systems and long-term risk factors.”
Every summer, as people flock to the countryside, the risk of tick bites and Lyme Disease rises sharply. Areas like Dartmouth in Devon, with its coastal walks and rolling hills, are beautiful but also known for ticks that can carry infections. At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre (MDC) in Central London, we see an increasing number of patients worried about Lyme Disease and other infections that may not be obvious until symptoms become serious.
Early testing is the key to peace of mind and effective treatment.
What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme Disease is a bacterial infection spread by tick bites. The first sign may be a rash shaped like a “bullseye,” but not everyone develops one. Other symptoms include:
- Fever and fatigue
- Muscle and joint pain
- Headaches and swollen glands
- Neurological symptoms if untreated (memory problems, nerve pain, facial weakness)
Left untreated, Lyme can cause long-term complications, affecting the heart, nervous system, and joints.
Why Early Testing Matters
Lyme Disease can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms often mimic flu or fatigue. A simple blood test can confirm whether you’ve been exposed. At MDC, we offer Borrelia antibody testing for Lyme Disease, alongside a full range of infectious disease screens.
The earlier you test; the sooner treatment can begin-and the better your outcome.
Infectious Disease Screening at MDC
Lyme isn’t the only infection that can stay hidden. Many bacterial and viral conditions develop quietly, only showing symptoms later. That’s why MDC’s Infectious Disease & Sexual Health Panels are so popular.
Advanced Sexual Health (£249)
Covers 12 infections in one discreet test:
- HIV 1 & 2
- Syphilis
- Hepatitis B & C
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- Mycoplasma
- Ureaplasma
- Trichomoniasis
- Gardnerella
- Herpes Simplex Virus I & II
Other Infection Profiles
- Inflammation & Infection Markers (CRP, ESR, FBC)
- Hepatitis Panel for liver health
- Borrelia (Lyme Disease) Antibodies
These tests are fast, discreet, and available the same day in Central London.
Who Should Get Tested?
You should consider infectious disease screening if you:
- Have recently visited countryside areas like Dartmouth or other tick-dense regions.
- Developed unexplained fatigue, muscle pain, or a rash.
- Had unprotected sex and want to rule out an STI (sexually transmitted infection).
- Experienced recurrent infections, fever, or inflammation.
- Want peace of mind before starting a new relationship.
At MDC, we provide both targeted tests and comprehensive panels depending on your needs.
Case Study – A Dartmouth Visitor
One of our patients returned from a walking holiday in Dartmouth with fatigue and mild flu-like symptoms. Unsure whether it was a simple virus, he booked a Lyme Disease blood test at MDC.
- Results confirmed early Borrelia infection.
- With prompt antibiotic treatment, he recovered fully.
- Without early testing, this could have developed into long-term neurological complications.
This highlights how a simple test can change the outcome dramatically.
Why Choose MDC for Infectious Disease Testing?
- Discreet and Confidential – your privacy is always protected.
- Fast Results – many tests are available same-day or within 24 hours.
- Central London Location – close to Baker Street, Harley Street, Marylebone, Paddington, and Euston.
- Marylebone High Standard – every test meets rigorous quality standards.
- Tailored Advice – add extra tests such as vitamin checks, thyroid function, or fertility markers if needed.
Book Your Infection Screen Today
Don’t let uncertainty linger. Whether it’s a tick bite in Dartmouth, a suspected Lyme infection, or a concern about STIs, early testing puts you in control.
Book an Advanced Sexual Health Panel (£249) or Lyme Disease Test at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre today.
Location: 73 Baker Street, Marylebone, London (serving Harley Street, Paddington, Kings Cross, and Central London).
Call +44 7495 970109 or book online at marylebonediagnosticcentre.com.
