Final answer:
The primary treatment for Lyme disease is the use of antibiotics, specifically doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime axetil. Early stages are treated with oral antibiotics, while late-stage infections may require intravenous treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Primary Treatment for Lyme Disease
The primary form of treatment for Lyme disease is the use of antibiotics. When Lyme disease is diagnosed early, a two- to four-week course of oral antibiotics is usually prescribed and is effective. The most commonly used antibiotics include doxycycline, amoxicillin, and cefuroxime axetil. For children under eight or for pregnant women, amoxicillin is typically preferred. In the case of severe or late-stage Lyme disease, intravenous antibiotics such as penicillin G or ceftriaxone may be necessary.
Observing the case of Ximena and Kayla, both were treated successfully with antibiotics. Ximena's doctor likely gave her doxycycline, given her confirmed diagnosis of Lyme disease and her presence in tick-infested areas. Kayla recovered fully from Lyme disease after also being prescribed doxycycline by her physician, which underscores its effectiveness as a treatment option.