Topic: Lyme Induced Diabetes, Sores/ wounds That Don't Heal
Silverwolf
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Member # 9196
posted
Hi <<<<< Lyme Family >>>>>,
TxCoord and I both have diabetes, I have Lyme and Co's we strongly suspicion he does as well.
I have some sores that don't want to heal up completely on upper outer leg area. I tho't at first that it was *infected hairs.
That usually heals if I treat it carefully these have not.
TxC' wounded his foot when he bumped it on his wheelchair ,on outer ankle. It was fairly deep. His local PA looked at it. cleaned it several weeks back .
His is not healing,and is I feel more serious than the spots on my legs [which I read somewhere might be Bartonella rash?]. His outer ankle is angry red and stays swollen [tho'it doe not appear actually infected]..
Should we ask his PA [thru VA clinic] for some antibiotic perhaps? We did some more debriding today and redressed the wound, which is about two inches long.
Right now we are using a triple antibiotic ointment. Any tho'ts on other ideas to help the skin issues? Especially for TxCoord Hubby?
He has worked so hard to be walking again... I don't want him to have more problems, and more surgery.
Thanks from both of us,for any input,and ideas...it is so much appreciated!!!
Jus'Silverwolfi and that TxCoord guy too!!!
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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Tincup
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Sorry to hear you are having these problems, honey.
Yes, HONEY!
I can't tell you how or how not to treat the wounds (not a doctor), and won't, but I've seen raw, organic honey do a really good job on wounds for several people. Putting it on/in the wounds, not eating it.
They instructions were to crunch up a sterile pad so it is loose and softly woven. Clean wound and slab some honey- a clean spoon to spread it- and cover it with the gauze. Change the dressing several (4 is recommended) times a day.
THAT and an antibiotic- amoxicillin is what I saw used- helped these people.
Here is a link to some good info. I heard even ho ho Hopkins uses this method sometimes- and as we all know, they are always right! HA!
PS. I once asked why these expensive wound centers don't use this method and the doc held up their thumb and forefinger, rubbing them together.
I got the message that if you are only coming for wound healing, the more visits you make, the more money they make. And I've seen the honey work better than the other treatments.
But ALWAYS do what your doc tells you. I'm not a doc and this isn't medical advise.
Silverwolf
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Member # 9196
posted
Hiya <<<<< Tincup Sweet-y , Honey is Sweet!>>>>>,
Thank You,for the idea!!!
When my mother was a little girl,and living on a small farm, she got bumped up against a very hot grate.
It took skin right off her leg [side of the calf], after quickly and gently cleaning the area w/ cool water,
...grandma grabbed some bread soaked with fresh milk,quickly whipped up egg white,milk and honey [pretty sure it was the raw honey] and popped that on the burn.
It barely left a scar, Mom told me about it once, the -honey- suggestion brought it to memory.Now a days the eggs probably aren't very safe...but the honey sounds interesting.
Thanks for the link, there is a special group in our are that sells honey.It has gone up a bit in price but we can check around!!!
Jus Silverwolfi
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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nefferdun
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Honey is extremely good for burns. It prevents infection so that might work on wounds too.
But if you have bad circulation from the diabetes and lyme, you need to address that. It is your compromised circulation that is causing your sores not to heal.
Do not eat any red meat. It would be best if you were on a vegan diet for a lot of reason. First, meat protein stresses the kidneys. Up to 70% of diabetics get kidney disease. If you have lyme and are on abx, you are already stressing your kidneys. Bad kidneys reduces your ability to detox. This can all affect your circulation.
"Each kidney houses a complex system of nephrons, microscopic units that filter the blood and form urine. In diabetic nephropathy, these filtration units become damaged and allow more of the blood protein albumin into the urine. As damage to the kidneys gets worse, the amount of albumin in the urine also increases, giving a fair indication of the progress of the disease."
More than likely you have methyl cycle mutations. Most diabetics and people with chronic diseases do. You have both so it is almost a sure thing. When you eat meat with the CBS mutation it causes ammonia to build up in the body. If you have the MRHFR mutation, then you are prone to hypercoagulation. Chronic infection causes hypercoagulation too which reduces your blood flow.
This makes it harder for your wounds to heal. Biofilm compounds all of this. The FL1953 bug thrives on the lipids in animal protein. If you have that, and 90% of us are testing positive, you need to be on a low fat vegan diet to recover. Irregardless, you need to get your blood thinned. Lumbrokinase helps.
Alpha Lipoic Acid is very good for neuropathy in diabetes. It might help you. Another thing that helps to promote circulation to heal diabetic ulcers is Low Level Laser Light Therapy. I have a PE1 but the thing costs $1600. I read you can buy a laser poiner at Wall Mart for only $20. Supposedly it helps. You might be able to find someone with a more powerful unit you could use now and then.
The whole reason you are not healing is compromised circulation. My son has type one diabetes. That is how I know these things. The most powerful tool is veganism. Don't worry about the carb thing - nonsense. He is type one and has no trouble with rice, yams, whole grains and quinoa etc.
Georgetown University did a study with type 2 diabetics and those participants on the vegan diet dramatically recovered, some completely off all medication. It works.
Another thing you could try is Naltrexone on the wound. Many of us take Low Dose Naltrexone to stimulate the immune system, but when you put naltrexone directly on to a would it stimulates healing. Dr Zagon at Penn state University did a successful study using it to heal the eyes of diabetic rats.
-------------------- old joke: idiopathic means the patient is pathological and the the doctor is an idiot Posts: 4676 | From western Montana | Registered: Apr 2009
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Silverwolf
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Hi <<<<< nefferdun >>>>>,
Thanks for the input and info, I appreciate it, we have been slowly working on our diets.
TxC's kidneys have slowed some what...he has an ultrasound and CT every year now because of this thru the VA.
Then he has 6 hours of IVS the day of CT to flush contrast dye out of his system to protect the kidneys.
So far it is helping,and that is how they also caught his aneurysm [right common Illiac] before it burst and killed him. They were checking the kidneys and found it. So he had to have surgery April 2011, but he is ALIVE!!!
Our carbs are generally all Gluten free now, because of intolerance. We still eat some meat ,but are going to try to grow some vegetables safely for freshness and cleanness too.
We are trying to watch any meats carefully as to quality. I am interested tho' with getting much more vegetables in to our diet.
Ideally if we could we'd like to get some lean venison,occasional wild caught fish,and lots of fresh bright colored veggies.
Because TxCoord comes from, a mostly long lived, family who have always eaten meat,he would not probably completely give it up. But I know he is looking forward to trying to safely grow some veggies!
We have a little laser light we got for Christmas one year...I wonder if that might help!
When I can afford to replenish my supplements I get the Alpha Lipoics, I have been hearing about the 'NAL' too.
Thanks again for the info' we'll go over this some more.
Jus' Silverwolfi
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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posted
I have had success using allimed cream and allied gels on this kind of problem in family with MRSA , skin sores & ulcers that would not heal ( are diabetic and had tried everything else!)
Posts: 532 | From Texas | Registered: Oct 2004
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sammy
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Please call the doc on monday and see if you can get TxC a follow-up appt to check on the wound. It should be healing.
Non-healing diabetic wounds can become serious problems.
Since you are both diabetic you should be checking your feet every day for any signs of injury or infection. Use a mirror if you can't look at the bottoms and between the toes. Call your doc at the first sign of a problem.
They will want to take a look at TxC's foot to make sure that there isn't an infection or anything. He may need to go to the VA hospital to see a wound care specialist. Hopefully your local doc will be able to help.
Please, don't ignore signs of infection or poor wound healing. This is serious. The honey may help, it may not. I just don't want TxC to get sick.
Posts: 5237 | From here | Registered: Nov 2007
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Silverwolf
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Hi <<<<< lymenotlite, dal123, and sammy >>>>>,
Thanks so much for the info',link, and input!
It gives us more info' to go on... We'll check w/ the VA clinic Monday if it isn't finally getting better on TxC's foot.
I think the healing on his foot is being complicated by arthritis as well. The last treatment and cleanup we did,is helping,but it still should be healed up.
Have to read the links and such later when I can see better... but we so much appreciate the info and the tho'ts from everyone,on how to ease this problem .
I still have a couple sores that haven't healed all the way on one leg,but it is better,and not gashed like TxC's foot is.
I'll be asking my PA for more ideas on how to stop the problem. I think Lyme and Co's can really mess w/ the skins ability to heal as with so much other things that it affects.
Will read over this more thoroughly again tomorrow. I want to see Mercolas info' in the link too. I'll check about the cream and gel and see what we can find that might help on a budget.
<<<<< sammy >>>>>, you remain in our prayers! Thanks to each replier... will update as we get info' and find out what all it takes to get these wounds and sores healed up!
Jus' Silverwolfi [of buzzng and musical brain]
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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Carol in PA
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nefferdun said ---- But if you have bad circulation from the diabetes and lyme, you need to address that. It is your compromised circulation that is causing your sores not to heal.
Another thing that helps to promote circulation to heal diabetic ulcers is Low Level Laser Light Therapy. I have a PE1 but the thing costs $1600. ----
Yes, poor blood circulation is a major problem when wounds on the feet don't heal. You can increase the circulation by soaking in warm water or by using hot compresses.
"Low Level Laser Light Therapy" is the LED light therapy that I have spoken of before. Light Emitting Diodes transmit certain wavelengths of light with energy that is absorbed by the mitochondria in the cells.
The mitochondria need oxygen and blood sugar in order to make energy. Normally, this is supplied by the blood, but when inflammation, hypercoagulation, and anemia all combine in someone with chronic illness, the body's cells do not get enough.
As soon as the cells get the energy they need from the LED's they begin to work properly again, and the wound will heal.
I have been using the SOTA LightWorks on my cat's injuries, and it is amazing how quickly the swelling goes down and the healing progresses.
From what I've read, the professional models are ten times as powerful. (And ten times as expensive!) I think SOTA had to "dumb it down" for the device to be approved by the FDA.
You can buy those little laser pointers, but I don't know what wavelength they use, or the strength. A wavelength of 880 will penetrate about five inches into the body...this is infrared light, which is invisible to the eye.
I would like to see a pic of the wound. If it's not infected, I don't think your doc is going to do much.
Doing warm soaks every couple hours can do wonders to speed healing. Also, it's important to elevate the foot when you're sitting for a long time. If you sit on the sofa, sit sideways and put your leg up.
This will make it easier for the blood to return to the heart.
Posts: 6947 | From Lancaster, PA | Registered: Feb 2004
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nefferdun
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Check out my recipes in general. I promise you, you will like everything I have posted. If you get off the meat and dairy I bet you see dramatic improvement. Read this:
LDN helps with neuropathy too. You might try starting that.
If you don't do something different, it won't get better. You have the beginning of what can lead up to something really serious. Diabetes is the leading cause of non-tramatic amputations. Most diabetics die from kidney disease or cardiovascular disease.
We all grew up in meat eating families. When you realize your life is at stake, then it is a no brainer to at least give it a try to see if it helps.
-------------------- old joke: idiopathic means the patient is pathological and the the doctor is an idiot Posts: 4676 | From western Montana | Registered: Apr 2009
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Silverwolf
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Hi <<<<< Carol in PA and nefferdun >>>>>,
Thanks so much for the info' and the link!
I think the warm soaks sound wonderful and healing! I wish we could post a pic of TxC's ankle, but we cannot right now, part of our camera to computer stuff is missing.
It doesn't appear infected, it just doesn't want to heal.It was deeper than first tho't and TxCoords PA said it really should have had stitches.
He said the wound doesn't hurt[ it is peeling]. But the arthritis that affects the ankles is bothering him.
Still w/ circulation not at it's best his PA needs to see this if it isn't a whole lot better and soon!
I am wondering about applying a nice warm wash rag on the sores on my leg that are not healing and see if that eases it for me,as well.
Nefferdun, I am looking at the link, and we'll see what we might could adapt for us to eat. We have to go Gluten free, and need GMO free foods.
So will do some research, on safe inexpensive foods...and check out the recipes on the general supp' board too! We are hoping to get a small table garden going when the weather is more cooperative.
Living in Rocky Mountain High desert one is apt to get 78 degrees one day and 30 to 40 degrees the next day.
Will have to look up more on the LDN, and see if we can find this inexpensively.We have to live very frugally when half the meager income we have is going to housing and utilities.
[and yes we are researching every avenue,we are on the weatherization list but who knows when they'll get to us. If it is like low cost/or no cost slide fee dental it could be over half a year.].
Off to research more..Thanks again to each replier,for taking the time to send us tho'ts, info and links! It is truly appreciated.
Jus' Silverwolfi
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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Razzle
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Circulation is key to getting the wounds to heal. Suggest trying to consume cayenne pepper. Get it from a reputable herb store, not the junk in the grocery store (could be fake).
Also, epsom salt soaks on the wound - warm, not hot water. 20 minutes 2-4x/day. Good for healing any and all wounds. The sulfur and magnesium are very good for the skin, and circulation.
Diabetes: Need cinnamon, alpha lipoic acid, chromium, NO Corn Sweeteners (corn syrup, maltodextrin, high fructose corn syrup), and good quality vegetarian proteins (no dairy - dairy is linked to causing Type 1 diabetes; no gluten - gluten is linked to both types of diabetes).
If you can take MSM, that too can be helpful for healing wounds. My DH has bad problems from long-term steroid use. Once he started taking MSM, his skin is no longer so fragile and he doesn't split his skin open so easily.
-------------------- -Razzle Lyme IgM IGeneX Pos. 18+++, 23-25+, 30++, 31+, 34++, 39 IND, 83-93 IND; IgG IGeneX Neg. 30+, 39 IND; Mayo/CDC Pos. IgM 23+, 39+; IgG Mayo/CDC Neg. band 41+; Bart. (clinical dx; Fry Labs neg. for all coinfections), sx >30 yrs. Posts: 4166 | From WA | Registered: Feb 2011
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Silverwolf
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Hi <<<<< Razzle >>>>>,
Thanks for the info', I am on an herbal Diabetic blend as well as Metformin, I'd like to get TxC on it too,as soon as we can get the funding.
VA does most of his meds' tho'we have to pay for part of it [which is where his little smidge of VA disability goes].
I didn't even think about epsom salts...I bet that would be lovely for his ankle wound,nice heated water!!!
Tho' I have some stomach issues[have to keep it mild],we've been experimenting w/ different kinds of spices,peppers and so on. We can look into the Cayenne too!
We've been avoiding HFCS as much as is possible got some info' about it.
I use cinnamon and feel that it really helps,tho' I still have some sores on my legs...and wondering ,about the epsom if that would clear it.
Thanks again,am taking note of what we need to stock up on as to Supplements/herbs and such...gotta get some good Vit. C again too.
So whatever we have left after housing, utilities, food, fuel,and medical, we'll put some to more supplements if we are able!!!
Thanks to each one who has replied,again, Sometimes it is hard to think clearly and remember everything,or wade thru info on -google and -bing, and extract all we need to know!
Jus' that Silverwolfi and Txcoord too!
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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Razzle
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Make sure you are also taking Vitamin B12. Metformin interferes with the absorption of this vitamin, so more is needed to overcome the effects of the drug on the absorption of B12.
-------------------- -Razzle Lyme IgM IGeneX Pos. 18+++, 23-25+, 30++, 31+, 34++, 39 IND, 83-93 IND; IgG IGeneX Neg. 30+, 39 IND; Mayo/CDC Pos. IgM 23+, 39+; IgG Mayo/CDC Neg. band 41+; Bart. (clinical dx; Fry Labs neg. for all coinfections), sx >30 yrs. Posts: 4166 | From WA | Registered: Feb 2011
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glm1111
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Silverwolf
Hulda Clark says that all diabetics are infected with the Eurytrema pancreatic fluke. Parasites can be sexually transmitted as well. The sores you describe can be from untreated parasitic infections. Google Hulda Clark + diabetes.
Check the symptom list at Humaworm. Parastroy would be an inexpensive herb for you both to try and you can get it at Vitacost.
-------------------- PARASITES/WORMS ARE NOW RECOGNIZED AS THE NUMBER 1 CO-INFECTION IN LYME DISEASE BY ILADS* Posts: 6418 | From philadelphia pa | Registered: Jul 2008
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nefferdun
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Wow Silverwolf, you live very close to me!! At least closer than anyone else.
We are all on it now; my son, my husband, me (just started again), the dog and even the pony is going to get it for her hyperthyroidism.
Veganism is the cheapest way to eat. No excuses there! Try Lentil curry. Just throw this all together in a slow cooker: 1 cup lentils, 5 cups water, one can diced tomato with jalapeno, 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 chopped green pepper, 2-3 chopped carrots, 1/2 cup canned or frozen corn, 3 TB Braggs (or salt) 1 ts turmeric, 1 ts garlic and some Mrs Dash to really get it kicking.
You can chop everything in a food processor. If you don't have a slow cooker, cook on low heat on top of the stove for about 1.5 hours or until you like it.
It is to die for.
-------------------- old joke: idiopathic means the patient is pathological and the the doctor is an idiot Posts: 4676 | From western Montana | Registered: Apr 2009
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Silverwolf
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Hi there <<<<< Razzle, glm1111, and nefferdun >>>>>,
Thanks for the replies,info' and links !!!
Razzle, thanks for the B12 reminder,I gotta get some more[ I take it to ease seizure like symptoms too]...And didn't know that the Metformin could cause problems w/ absorption.
Gael, I've been wondering about the parasite problem,so checking this out...been talking w/ TxCoord about it too!
Nefferdun, thanks for the info'.I'd been wondering about the LDN, and wasn't sure how to go about getting this. TxC'and I self treating no LLMD's/LLND's in area. I noticed you were from western Montana!!!
Thanks so much to each replier for the info' and links!!! we are trying some of the ideas here...have to see how TxC's ankle is this evening when we change the bandage dressing!
Hoping this will post, had troubles w/ my last one I did... Not sure if the Ol 'Computer or my brain is burping worse...
TxC' is out in the kitchen making supper..so I'll BBL.
Jus'Silverwolfi
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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Carol in PA
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When I was caring for patients, I preferred to leave wounds open to the air whenever possible.
I hate using antibiotic ointments on a healing wound. You want the wound to scab, and it needs to be dry. You could tape a gauze pad over it for protection, and the air would still be able to get through.
It's been several days now....how many times were you able to do hot compresses? What improvements are you seeing?
Actually, since it's on the ankle, you can do a soak in warm water, for 20 or 30 minutes, every two hours or as often as possible.
I know this is alot of work when you want to be doing other things, but it is so effective in improving circulation to the area. I use my largest pot, six quarts, which has a diameter large enough to fit my foot. Fill it two thirds with very warm water, put a towel on the floor next to it for when you remove your foot.
I set this up by the computer, so that I have something to do while I'm soaking. I did this when I had an infected toenail, and it helped so much.
The warmth relaxes the blood vessels and with more blood flowing to the foot, the cells get the oxygen and blood sugar they need to heal.
Dang, I wish I could see a pic.
Posts: 6947 | From Lancaster, PA | Registered: Feb 2004
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Silverwolf
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Hi <<<<< Carol in PA >>>>>,
Because it is just TxCoord and myself here, we are sorta slow to get things done,with both of us ailing.
TxCoord has been getting a good foot soaking,but only about once a day. He has said that it feels better w/ a bit of the antibiotic ointment on the wound.
If it isn't a lot better this evening when we change the bandage dressing, he'll be making an appt. w/ the local VA clinic, at his convenience.
I tried the salts [Epsom ,dead sea] idea yesterday, my upper leg had really been bothering,w/ the small sores,and they are drying up,and itching less.
TxCoord is wondering about the gentle salts for his foot too. I wish we could find the missing stuff to transfer his camera pics,so you could see his ankle wound.
We do let the wound air some on days we don't need to be out. His VA-PA had wanted it kept covered when we are out,of course for cleanliness.
We appreciate the input,from you Carol,and from each replier. Will try to check in after my afternoon appt. tomorrow.
Discussing medications, for the Diabetes/HBP/and so on ,as well as my recent MAmmo' and accompanying issues...
[Things seem to be in order,but the rigamarole we had to go thru was anything but normal.And stress isn't helping either of us.].
BBL Jus'Silverwolfi here
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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Carol in PA
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Well, once a day is good, I know it can be a bother to try to fit it in. It's not the water or the salts that help, it's the heat that relaxes the blood vessels.
It can be uncovered while you're sleeping or just moving around inside. Is he elevating the foot when he's sitting down?
Is there any drainage when you remove the bandage, or just the ointment. How reddened is the skin around it. From what you've said, it doesn't sound like it's infected, just slow to heal.
Doing soaks a couple times per day can get the healing moving in the right direction, and then you won't have to go through all the effort to go to the VA.
By the way, if you do see a doc, ask where you can get LED light therapy, also called Low Level Laser Therapy. A short session of this will jump start the mitochondria to get it healed.
I know the LED light therapy units are expensive now, but someday they will be part of people's first aid kits, like hot water bottles or heating pads are today.
Posts: 6947 | From Lancaster, PA | Registered: Feb 2004
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Thanks Carol. One of the things that helps with the burning pain (occasional not persistent) is the meds they gave me for neuropathy (Gabapentin).
The site itself doesn't hurt but no sign of infection and it does feel better when we put some AAA antibiotic on a band-aid and cover the wound.
The other issue is that this ankle was repaired in '92. They took the tendon that went under the foot (like a stirrup) and literally tied the ankle in place so there is limited range of motion and mobility. (I walk like Herman Munster.)
Thanks again all for helping.
-------------------- I have a good time wherever I go! Posts: 665 | From Lost Wages, NV | Registered: May 2006
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Carol in PA
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Oh, you have neuropathy. I did too, but I didn't realize what it was.
Imagine my surprise when I took sublingual B12 and the pain went away!
I didn't get "instant energy" from it, but I could keep the foot/leg pain away when I took it every eight hours.
Posts: 6947 | From Lancaster, PA | Registered: Feb 2004
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TerryK
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I am diabetic, my dad was diabetic, my sister was diabetic, my brother and other sister are also diabetic. My dad was never evaluated for lyme (although he was sick for years) but I found out recently that both of my sisters were diagnosed and my brother had numerous bullseye rashes.
My dad was staying with my husband and I and stubbed his toe. This eventually led to a foot amputation and they just kept amputating as time went on. He never got out of the hospital.
I have been told by numerous sources that if a diabetic gets a sore they need to be seen immediately so the sore can be treated before turning into a major ordeal. Follow-up wound care is essential, especially if the wound is red and swollen. He could develop a bone infection. I would NOT debride any tissue at home. He opens himself up to more infection.
Anyone who is diabetic has to be VERY diligent in dealing with wounds. PLEASE get him into a podiatrist for follow up care. It would be good if he could add a podiatrist to his diabetes care plan but I know the VA can be difficult to work with. I would at least get him to his diabetic doc at the VA ASAP.
You should also be seen because there are new treatments out that can help with wounds that do not heal.
PS I would ask for a test to determine the degree of neuropathy that you both have. This will direct your doctors to provide the care you need.
Print this out and take it to your doctor. It specifically mentions diabetic neuropathy as a condition that this med helps. The VA will likely not provide it but they may write a prescription for you.
Wishing you both the best, Terry
Posts: 6286 | From Oregon | Registered: Jan 2006
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Silverwolf
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Hi there <<<<< Carol in PA and TerryK >>>>>,
Thank You for the input and links. I actually use the Now brand B12 packets at times. TxC' cannot because of the kidney warning on the package,and he has a slowed kidney function issue.
There is another good one that is the sublinguals when we can afford it, I get that...no kidney warnings.
For general info'we have no doctor,no specialisist and so on/
I go to an indigent slide fee clinic out of town about 40 minutes,to a non-LL PA. The small VA clinic in our town which TxC' goes to, cannot do much more than draw blood.
For anything major TxCoord must go 3 and 1/2 hours away to the VA medical center...,they cut funding, so we do not even have any travel pay to help now [unless it is directly attributable to Herbicide induced Diabetes type II ,and they are arguing that most of the issues are not].
IN SE Idaho a Childless couple over 50 years of age, who has lost work ability falls thru the cracks. We make a little too much for any assistance beyond the SSDI TxC gets .The cutoff is $1100 any more than that and forget any aid.
We make less than $1500 w/ the SSDI,and the small 20% we get thru is VA disability barely pays for his medicines.
Once on a mix up, their fault mind you, VA took monies from TxCoords little VA disability check and garnished the SSDI check too. We finally have hopefully got them to straighten things out.
Not complaining,just stating the facts..Don't expect help if you have a problem here... we have tried, and a professional in the filed has been helping. That's how I got to go to the 'indigence' slide fee clinic.
Not asking for financial aid from folk here...just stating what we are living thru. So we try to find, things we can do from home,or that an non LL PA might find a program for thru the clinic.
I have tried three different times ,Twice since my Lyme and Co's DX, to get SSI help[not enough work credit for SSDI,and once a HEW Social worker tried to help]. Because we make over $1100 ,they will not even read my paperwork proving I'd qualify.
Now the under $1500 that we are getting a month, ,over half of that is housing and utlitiies. Then comes food and fuel for our vehicle and car insurance. Our car is older but economical.
We live in a small older trailer home[two bedroom],in a trailer park. And we live as frugally as possible. We are on a list for weatherization, but who knows haw may folk are before us.
Life is kinda tough right, now so we do what we can by scrimping and saving. Vacation is a foreign word for us, a someday when the VA[who is running about 4 months behind] gets TxCoords paperwork
...and disability decided [when the hearing w/ the judge that we are waiting on from DC,to be scheduled occurs and is decided].
Anyways,we ask questions here,and try to do searches,of anything low cost that we can do w/a severely limited income.
LDN has been mentioned as a possible help,we are checking on this as well,as one get get some help sometimes w/ the Fibro DX I have.
And sadly ,it isn't just TxCoord and me ,that fall thru the cracks,my PA knows of many folk who are having physical issues,and little to no monies. It is happening all over the USA.
Being able to check here on LymeNet means a lot to us, we have little else we can do. We are very glad to have LymeNet.
Thanks to each responder, it is appreciated.
Jus' Silverwolfi
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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Silverwolf
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 9196
posted
Another note on all this,we are paying on other bills to do w/ medical problems,and it is costly.
So is gluten free food, that we must eat,and the meds/supplements I must have that we pay out of pocket..w/ no insurance.
I am just venting some...not upset w/ anyone,especially not our LymeNet family. We are trying to make the best of a tough situation like so may others are as well.
Jus' Silverwolfi spoutin'off a bit.
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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TerryK
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 8552
posted
I'm so sorry to hear this Silver and tx.
My brother is a vet. He was so sick when he got benefits that I thought he was going to die. He was homeless and as thin as a rail and very sick. I found a VA liason (they don't work for the VA but on behalf of Vets) and he expedited getting a doctor and getting some money. It cost nothing to get his help. This was several years ago and I'm not sure what is available now.
If Tx is disabled he should be able to get VA disability and medical care even if it is not service connected. My brother did.
They are very kind and helpful from what I've seen.
Best wishes, Terry
Posts: 6286 | From Oregon | Registered: Jan 2006
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Silverwolf
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 9196
posted
Hi <<<<< TerryK >>>>>,
TxCoord is a member of the Military Lyme Group you speak of, I'll let him explain more...
Thanks for the kind reply! It is so frustrating for us trying to deal with all this. And I know we aren't alone in this mess.
We've had a fight to get anything accomplished thru VA. Will let TxCoord tell you about that!
Jus'Silverwolfi
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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Marnie
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 773
posted
Read my berberine post for the why's!!!
Bottom line...the cells are switching their fuel.
Consider...and talk to your doctor about B6/PLP/P5P (sublingual by Source Naturals).
Stomach acids destroy B vit. supplements...hence the need for sublingual (under the tongue).
posted
I do have a VA rep who is not a fed employee and she helps me with my appeals and paperwork. The problem with the situation is I would have to pay for a doctor on my own dime and the VA will not reimburse at this time.
I do get 20% from the VA but almost all of it goes to paying for my medication as not everything from the VA is free anymore.
I do get all my medical care from the VA but anything major I have to go to Salt Lake but if it can�t be tied to my diabetes (which is the 20% disability rating) then I get no travel pay and it�s about $75-100 to go to SLC and come home not counting a 10-12 hour day.
I�ve joined the military Lyme group but they concur in that the VA refuses to test veterans for any of the Lyme or co-infections (especially if it has been so long since I may have contracted it.)
Again, I can get a doctor to test me but VA won�t pay and as we live in Idaho there are no LLMD�s anywhere close to us.
Thanks though. We will just hang in and have to wait for a judge to decide at some point in the future.
-------------------- I have a good time wherever I go! Posts: 665 | From Lost Wages, NV | Registered: May 2006
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Silverwolf
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 9196
posted
Hi <<<<< Marnie >>>>>,
Thanks for the reply and links, we've been researching berberine. I think it is the 'bitter melon' in my Diabetic formula that I supplement the Metformin w/ that is a berberine compound.
My PA is -non- LL as are the Drs. and PA who see TxCoord thru the VA [all non-ll],when we can figure a way to drive the three and a half hours w/o funding .
We can sure check on that B6/PLP/P5P tho' and the Links for sure as well. TxC' wants to read over them carefully tomorrow!!!
<<<<< Marnie >>>>> extra hugs, thanks again for the reply and links ,will be praying for y'all,agent Orange and herbicide exposure is no fun at all, and any Lyme and Co's combo makes it even worse.
Sometimes we get so frustrated at how slow the VA works, and how tight our budget is. If not for LymeNet I don't know how we'd get any info' or help as to treatments. There is such good info',and experiences shared here!!!
Well,I'm off to post this, want to read these links!
Jus' Silverwolfi here
-------------------- 2006,May-August2006 Dx w/ Lyme/Bartonella/White Matter Lesion Disease on Brain. [ Clinical Dx w/ two positives and several IND's on the tests from Igenex ], Prior Dx of CFIDS/CEBV 1992, and FMS '93-'94 Diabetes*2 Dx 10/'08 Posts: 3581 | From SE Idaho | Registered: May 2006
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