I have to make a decision YESTERDAY about which Dr. to call. I am not sure why I just can't seem to make up my mind and pick up the phone. Maybe in the back of mind, I fear it may be another false hope for me (not that I want to have LD, but answers after 12 years would be great).
As some of you know who have graciously given me some of your time, and wisdom my symptoms are primarily neurological and getting more and more serious. Just recently I have had some heart palpitations.
I was given a several recommendations for Dr. R and one for Dr. H. Previously, I had thought Dr. H only did 1 yr of IV antibiotics, but the patient who goes to Doctor H clarified that he treats aggressively until he feels you're well or symptom free (for most patients that is about 1 year, but it can be longer and he does so until necessary) and then c. protocol to maintain health. I wanted to make sure that that's clear to anyone reading the post.
Dr. L I heard was great, but his location is not as good and he is expensive (ultimately if he is the better doc, I won't care, but it there's one that can treat me just as well and not be as costly or inconvenient, I'll choose the other).
I don't even have a diagnosis yet, but I'm feeling worse and worse. Dr. R is good on location and the two recommendations I received were very good. I just wondered if anyone had any other insights.
I DO appreciate everyone's input already and I thank you for your patience. I don't mean to be tiresome. It feels like this decision is CRUCIAL and whether I feel ready or not to face whatever my come, I have little choice. My body isn't given me any.
[ 11. April 2008, 04:14 PM: Message edited by: al369 ]
Posted by Meg (Member # 22) on :
Allanah, You've been given the names of the best Lyme Disease Drs in NY City, I honestly don't think you could go wrong with ANY of them!
I can see your hesitation in your words above. You have Bell's Palsy and other Neurological symptoms. Bell's Palsy is highly indicative of LD.
Give one a call and just take it from there.....
Posted by njlymemom (Member # 15088) on :
Allanah - your first step is the hardest. You have every right to be frightened.
You can do this Allanah - making the call is the first step. The thought of having this illness is mind blowing....but once you are on the road to recovery you will wonder why you hesitated.
I hope you find the courage.....I know you have it in you.
Posted by TF (Member # 14183) on :
You could call both Dr. L and Dr. R and find out who could see you first.
If there is a big difference in time, that could be your deciding point. Go to the one who can see you soonest.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
I see Dr. H (one of his PA's, but you also get to see him).
Recently we tried to make the switch over to Cowden because I was almost symptom-free (about 98% of normal). As soon as I had symptoms return and called him, I was put back on aggressive abx.
There is no need for anyone to think he will not treat according to symptoms and has some kind of random time frame before he puts you on herbs.
I really like his integrated approach .... I like that he can direct my supplements, herbs, and detox as well as my conventional meds.
Maybe someone else can chime in and give the benefits of the other LLMD's you mention.
I'm sure they are all good LLMD's. If you decide on working with Dr. H, you can make an appt. with a PA and get in in a few weeks. You will also see Dr. H.
Posted by leolupa (Member # 15205) on :
Dr. L in NY area is good, but be ready to pay a lot of money and not have a lot of compassion or care in seeing how you are doing.