My son Tyler (12) tested reactive on two strands of Western Blot Test with at least 15 symptoms of classic Lyme Disease. After several pediatrician changes we now have him on an oral antibiotic (just over 3 weeks in of a 6 week rx). The pediatrician we're seeing isn't a Lyme specific doctor. Tyler is seeing a teeny bit of relief from his stomach discomfort, but I'm concerned about what happens after the 6 weeks of antibiotics? Should I be seeking a physician who specializes in LD? What I don't want to happen is finish the current rx and encounter a relapse. He's been bedridden for the last 4 weeks, missing school and not his happy go lucky self. Any suggestion as to what the next steps should be are greatly appreciated.
Posted by lymemommy (Member # 12495) on :
Yes, absolutely get an LLMD.
My family was in you shoes one year ago, except our child was 5 years old. We initially got a 6 week course of abx, and our son had very little improvement by the end of that time.
Fortunately, we were able to get him into see an LLMD that treats kids within this time frame, and after a year, almost all of his symptoms are gone.
I know reading that one year thing is scary, but this is an illness that doesn't go away over night, at least it didn't for our child.
You may find that your child will initially feel worse, which is known as a herxheimer (herx) reaction. Don't let this turn you off to tx, it means that the abx is working and killing off the lyme.
If you have questions, feel free to pm me, and I'll offer what support or help that I can.
There are many here who have been where you are, and they are all great in helping folks get through this.
Take care. kp
Posted by Geneal (Member # 10375) on :
I second that.
As a mother of two young children with Lyme,
I urge you to get your child to a LLMD asap.
Besides the Lyme (as if that isn't enough),
There are possible co-infections which may need to be addressed.