I know this sounds crazy, but I am SO happy a doctor finally said, "yes, you have Lyme. Let's start treating it." What a relief to put a name to it after 7 years of feeling crappy.
I saw the dr on Friday, but I am just getting to posting (rough weekend). Granted, this isn't an LLMD dr., but she was very knowledgeable, listened to me, is on my insurance, and explained treatment plan in detail.
I go next week for co-infection testing and to start iv antibiotics. Because of my strong neuro reactions to the minocycline, she said we should stay away from that stuff.
I'll be on iv treatments for minimum of 4-6 weeks. I don't think they treat longterm chronic Lyme, but I will deal with that when and if it comes. I just needed a starting point.
I realize there will be a long road to recovery, but I am thankful for all the information this Forum has given me. I feel prepared to ask the right questions and stay on track with detoxing and supplements.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! :-)
Posted by Ames777 (Member # 43190) on :
I just realized I posted this under the wrong heading. It should have probably gone under support. Sorry.
Posted by norcal (Member # 29829) on :
Welcome to Lymenet. Now you can start getting well!
Posted by Robin123 (Member # 9197) on :
I understand - I felt the same way when I finally got diagnosed - so happy to be done with the search for answers!
That's great that you have a doctor who wants to help you. You're welcome to discuss here what the doctor wants to do, as long as you don't name any names.
You could also check in with your free online state Lyme discussion site for some feedback on the doctor and what the protocol is. You can ask to join at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/georgialyme Posted by gmb (Member # 23562) on :
If you have had Lyme sx for seven years or more then 4 to 6 weeks of ABX is only a drop in the bucket. Most LLMD will say that around week 4 you should expect to feel your worse herx.
Lyme replicates on an approx. 28 day cycle. So you won't even hit two cycles on 4 to 6 weeks. If that's all she plans to give I would consider staying with orals or doing Bicillin shots instead of having to deal with a PICC and daily infusions.
No one ABX at a time will be effective. You'll need to ramp up orals gradually and only add one at a time to guage your reaction. If mino was not right for you, maybe start with Zithromax, then add Omnicef. You'll also need to pulse a cyst buster like TindaMax or Flagyl.
And don't forget about treating Bart and Babs regardless of your test results. It's a long battle. Maybe a few visits with a real LLMD may get you on a serious start and then work with your current GP. I spent my first year with a highly rated LLMD, but switched to seek more thorough and aggressive treatment options.
Good luck with your treatment
gmb
[ 02-12-2014, 08:07 AM: Message edited by: gmb ]
Posted by Ames777 (Member # 43190) on :
That's kinda what the dr. said, too, GMB. She said a "minimum" of 4-6 weeks but it could be much longer. That they treat some people for months.
To be honest, I was just so excited to get a diagnosis, I forgot some of the antibiotic names she mentioned, even though I was trying to take notes!
Thank you for all the info. I see her next week and will ask her about the things you mentioned. Each day I learn more about what I need to ask, thanks to this Forum.
I'll also know exactly what they plan to put me on next week and will post to the group for opinions.
Thanks, everyone! :-)
Posted by Catgirl (Member # 31149) on :
Right on Ames!
I suggest reading Burrascano's treatment guidelines (below). Lots of info there for you and your doc. Also, there is a really good book called: Cure Unknown (weintraub) that explains lyme well.
Also a new book out by doc H (worth reading) "Why Can't I Get Better?" I suggest getting a copy for your doc too.
I felt the same way when I got my official CDC positive tests. My husband asked, why are you so happy that you are positive for 3 infections? I said because I feel vindicated. I am not crazy. I really am sick.
I hate to tell you this but think of recovery as a marathon, not a sprint. I have been treating since 2008.
As for those 3 infections - well, now I am up to 5 positive tests, one clinical diagnosis and a new infection I will see an LLMD for next week. That is 7 infections!
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
Congratulations! Onward, forward!
-
PS I'm leaving this here in case people have more medical suggestions for you.
Posted by Kudzuslipper (Member # 31915) on :
Hi Ames. So glad your being treated.
I thought this was a great article on what to expect. It's not gonna be easy... But hopefully you will feel better when it's all done.
![[Smile]](smile.gif)