My young daughter just started doxy yesterday for erlichia (she is under the care of a very reputable llmd, who is also treating my older daughter for lyme &co).
I'm wondering if there is the same herx reaction in erlichia alone, as there is in lyme.
I ask because I want to know if an increase/exacerbation in symptoms (when starting doxy) is typical for erlichia, or if it means that there is also possible lyme involvement.
Her doc really believes at this point that it is ONLY erlichia, and not active lyme. She had positive erlichia testing, and her lyme testing was not-conclusive. His thorough exam of her makes him think not lyme, just erlichia. But of course he is looking to see how she reacts to the doxy.
Thank you!
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
I'm pretty sure she will herx from ehrlichia treatment. Hopefully someone here will know for sure. You could also try Googling "herxheimer + ehrlichiosis" to see what comes up.
Posted by LymeMom Kellye (Member # 24807) on :
My daughter has Erlilchea and Lyme, positive through IGenix. She has done well on doxy. Anytime she starts a new med she herxes within 24 hours. After six months on doxy, her symptoms had plateaued and the herxes were very mild.
She was moved to Mino and Alinia. Within 24 hours a very big herx.
IMO she wouldn't have just erlichea. If the lyme testing was inconclusive and she had a Bb specific band I don't think you can rule it out at all.
Anyway, I think it's possible to herx within 12-24 hours, especially with a new drug. Doxy will help with Erlichea and if she has Lyme is a good start for getting rid of those little buggers.
Best wishes!
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
Thanks for the replies. I too have trouble believing that it would JUST be erlichia. But for now, this is what her doctor believes (and he is one of the top respected llmd's in the lyme community). Her symptoms are mild in comparison to her sister (who did become extremely ill with lyme and bart).
I did ask his office about herxes and erlichia. However, my recollection is that if we saw a herx we need to revisit the idea of lyme too. (right now, this is just a 2-4 week course of doxy).
So I'm wanting to see if anyone here knows more about erlichia alone. (which I realize most here will have it as a coinfection).