I am new to this discussion group and new to the knowledge that Lyme Disease is the probable cause of my having experienced the same kinds of things many of you on this site have described - years of suffering, a multitude of unusual/frightening symptoms, skepticism from physicians, and much more.

The succinct version of my personal story is that I have been ill since early childhood and seeking a diagnosis for years before testing positive for Lyme via both the Elisa and Western Blot. I believe I have had Chronic Lyme Disease since early childhood or since birth. I am now 33. My only Lyme treatment consisted of 10 days of Doxy, taken about a year ago. I recently learned that there may be more - much more - that can be done to potentially help manage this disease.

I am hopeful that this site will allow me to connect with others who also have LD, give and receive comfort and support, and share helpful information. What I have read so far has been encouraging. Thanks to those who have made LymeNet possible and those who have posted information and success stories. You've given me hope!

Welcome to LymeNet. This is a terrific place to not only find support, but also learn about treatment protocols and experiences from them.

It has been my 'light' during the difficult times, answered many 'looming' questions and also an awesome place to just vent to those who understand.

Remember - no question is silly.

One thing, if you didn't know it, there is a search function under the post reply icon. You can find the answer to many questions this way.

However, many of us (including myself) post about similiar/same topics, as we get responses from different people.

If you've been reading, I'm sure you know to find a good LLMD (Lyme Literate Doctor). Go to seeking a doctor for more information about that.

There are some other great posts for 'newbies' but it sounds like you've already been doing a lot of reading.

Let us know how we can help!

Such a nice introduction...welcome aboard!

I am so sorry that you have been dealing with this for SO long! Hopefully, you will begin to find what you have been searching for here, and also find a great LLMD to care for you.

Yes, it is so important to keep reading all that you can in order to become your own best advocate for good healthcare...
So, with that in mind, I will start you off with a few new member links, OK?

Dr. Joseph J. Burrascano's Guidelines: http://www.ilads.org/burrascano_1102.htm

Rose's 15 Facts for Newcomers: http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/Forum1/HTML/011977.html

Symptom Check List: http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/Forum1/HTML/021063.html

Abbreviations for Lyme-speak: http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/Forum1/HTML/020494.html

Making the most of your LLMD visit: http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/Forum1/HTML/020605.html

Camp A and Camp B: http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/Forum1/HTML/021395.html

Something to share with friends and family members: http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/Forum3/HTML/008886.html

Also, here is a great post to help you with the search feature that smiles mentioned in the LymeNet archives:

How to use the LymeNet Search: http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/Forum5/HTML/000464.html

My very best,
Melanie

I hope that you have been busy checking out all of the incredible sites that you have been referred to!

All of this info can be overwhelming, so I suggest that you print the info, and read it as you are able to. this will also be something in print that you might need later-for a skeptical doctor or family member or friends.

This is the best site on the web that I have found. It is also very quick moving, so don't just look at the first page you see. Go to page 2, 3, etc. Your post might move down rather quickly, and you might think at first that it was lost!

Take care, and keep us all posted. No question is a stupid one! Ask away-someone is bound to either know the answer, or refer you to someone or a site that can help.