A. Yes, and because they spend more time outdoors and may not know which areas to avoid, they are at greater risk than adults. Their symptoms may be different from an adult case of LD. Children infected with LD often initially have a flu-like illness during the summer months and may sleep for a day or more. They often complain that light hurts their eyes. Few children develop the bull’s eye rash. Stomach problems are common in children with LD.
With persistent LD, children tire easily and often do not want to participate in physical activity. Most devastating are the cognitive problems LD may bring. Infected children may suddenly develop learning disabilities and/or behavior problems. Researchers have found that LD is the cause of some instances of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Some children become physically impaired or even disabled. Teenagers in particular may suddenly exhibit psychological problems, including personality or behavior changes. Adolescents may exhibit self-mutilation (“cutting”). Many children of all ages struggle in school. A sudden change in school performance following an illness is suspect.