I am 39 years old, father of four and live in Loudoun County, VA. I've been experiencing increasing daily fatigue, headache, periodic dizziness, and recently lower back pain.
I have been tested twice for Lyme. The first test was a two-part test. Of this initial test, part "A" came back positive, however, part "B" came back negative, so I was not treated.
In a separate event, I was bitten and developed the typical rash. I was put on an antibiotic for a couple of weeks. Over time the symptoms returned. I was tested again, this time negative.
My first question is related to the testing. Even with the bite and rash, given that I've had a couple of tests, and both were negative, is it reasonable to rule Lyme out? In speaking with friends who have a daughter fighting the disease I understand that testing may not always be totally accurate and would like to find a reliable doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and hopefully get pointed in the right direction.
Thanks,
Posted by Dawn in VA (Member # 9693) on :
Testing is highly inaccurate for Lyme (even the CDC admits); many, many, many have had negative test results but have had Lyme and confections shown through tissue biopsies. It is a clinical diagnosis. (BTW, all educated docs I'm aware of would say that if you have the Bullseye rash, you have Lyme.)
I'll send you a PM of some good Lyme docs in your area.
Posted by Siciliano (Member # 15920) on :
PM sent
Posted by T2JRW (Member # 10663) on :
See www.natcaplyme.org for a support and information organization in your area.