I am still in the process of getting tested for Lyme. As I understand it, many times the diagnosis may come in the clinical form even if tests are not conclusive.
I've also read that during the initial stage (and ongoing) of antibiotics, doctors actually expect Lyme patients to herx as it is a sign that the antibiotics are working.
Assuming that the above is true, do some of the antibiotics have possible side effects that could be misinterpreted as herxing? Or is it pretty clear with a good LLMD the difference between a natural side effect and a herx?
I have spent the last 2+ years trying to "heal my leaky gut" after being told by a naturopath that I likely have intestinal permeability.
I have been able to improve some of the symptoms, but I have progressively gotten worse with other symptoms, mainly popping in my joints.
So now I am looking at the possibility of going the heavy antibiotic route to treat Lyme Disease (assuming I get a diagnosis).
While I am willing to take antibiotics in an effort to cure my ailments, I fear the possibility of wrecking my "gut" further and possibly bring on other autoimmune issues.
I assume the risk probably comes with the territory and for many it's a necessary danger, but I just thought I'd ask to possibly get further insight.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
I feel for you because after 4 yrs of Lyme treatment 11 years ago I'm still battling gut issues.
It's usually pretty easy to tell a herx from side effects. Not always, however.
Is the popping of the joints painful? Have you tried chondroitin and glucosamine?
The popping of the joints becomes painful with repetition. My wrists and shoulders pop, and it is uncomfortable. For example on some days I can wipe a counter with a sponge and the shoulders will snap over and over.
But now it is moving into my neck and back and causing tightness and pain. For example, if I lift to open my garage door, the tendon or cartilage shifts/snaps and it hurts but not bad. It's also returning to my jaw (TMJ).
But it begins to get sore as it continues to happen throughout the day. Everything pops when I'm moving at night sleeping too.
The progression of the popping is concerning.
Did you have gut issues before the antibiotic treatment?
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
OUCH!!!
Yes, I had candida before I even started treatment for Lyme. I stayed on a very good diet the entire time and took probiotics.. Though I later found out that the ones I took were not very effective.
Posted by Joe Bob (Member # 45015) on :
My family of 4 is 6 months into lyme treatment and 12 months into leaky gut treatment. My heart hurt with the thought of giving my children antibiotics. If you follow a strict leaky gut program. I liked DR. Amy Myers. You also need a LLMD that will alternate and pulse your antibiotics. We are ok so far. Take Care, Clarice Private message me if you want more detailed diet stuff.