To briefly recap - I was diagnosed in April 2007 and started Zithromax and Cat's Claw, which then changed to Zithromax, Cat's Claw and Plaquenil.
I also have Babesia, and I suspect Bartonella, based on symptoms.
In June 2007, I saw a new LLMD who took me off all antibiotics for a spinal tap (which was fine). Since I did good off of antibiotics, she kept me off. I did good until September, when I backslided.
I started Zithromax again in October and continued that until December, when my LLMD told me I should try Doxy. After taking a couple Doxy, I got the worst migraines, so bad that I was unable to do anything, so Doxy was not the antibiotic for me.
I then stayed on Cat's Claw only, until deciding what my next move would be.
I decided to try Zhang's Protocol because of all the positive stories that I have heard. That is what I am taking now.
The thing is, I am apparently having a huge herx because I have been having the worst PVC's (my Cardiologist has me on an event monitor that picks up the bad stuff and it's going off constantly.
I spoke with Zhang today, and he feels this is a herx, which I want to believe.
My family is very stressed and worried, which makes me worry even more.
I'm intertesed in hearing your advice and opinions on my situation, as well as any pros and cons to Zhangs Protocol.
Thank you!
Posts: 64 | From PA | Registered: Mar 2007
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Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
Member # 12673
posted
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Just wondering: Is your LLMD an ILADS member? I thought most would not do spinal taps as they are not very reliable with lyme. But, perhaps, they wanted to rule out other infections beside the tick-borne.
I'd follow the advice of your doctors if they told you to cut back the dosage, change formula, be sure to have liver support, etc.
Not every protocol will work for everyone. Individual reactions can vary. Many LLMDs incorporate Dr. Z's material, but remember, it's always individualized. Always ask if there is another way if you have trouble.
While allicin is remarkable and many medical abstracts are on PubMed about its effectiveness, I just can't take it due to increased tinnitus. Others don't seem to get this effect, though.
Just to be sure, I assume your diet free of aspartame/MSG, etc. and that you follow the lyme diet for the most part (avoiding processed foods, gluten, etc.)
Personally, I think a harsh or prolonged herx should be avoided if possible. It's just so hard on the body for on-going treatment. It comes down to how much the liver can process.
Also, sometimes we may forget about drinking water. I assume you do that but, again, just to be sure. Water alone can make a huge improvement.
Is there anyway you can add regular gentle massage? That helped me tremendously - I had to give it up a few months ago and, that alone, has sent me spinning to the ground in pain. Massage has so many benefits and it had been the wisest part of my treatment.
I hope this gets better for you.
You might also want to read the Buhner Book "Healing Lyme" - you can find it at Amazon. Lots of good information.
METALLlC BLUE
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 6628
posted
I agree with Keebler. The key is to ask Dr. Z if you can pull back a little during significant Herxheimer reactions and or if another herb or supplement can be used to decrease the Herxheimer reaction, such as Cholestapure. Of course there is Chlorella as well or others.
Dr. Z will be understanding if the reaction is too strong and will accomodate you if you ask if you can pull back until it resides a little, and then go back to full dose.
Also check with your doctors when on their protocols. Keebler gave you some great tips to use as well. Pick a few good ones that you can handle and go with it.
What dose Z use in his protocol by the way?
-------------------- I am not a physician, so do your own research to confirm any ideas given and then speak with a health care provider you trust.
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