Introducing myself and seeking reassurance!

Hi there!

I've been hanging out on this website for a couple of months now but this is the first time I've ever posted. I'm really just looking for some support and guidance in a difficult time!

To cut a long story short I'm a 28 year old male with probable lyme. My symptoms started in 2009 shortly after what I thought at the time was a weird insect bite (all I remember is that it looked like a round red bruise) and over the years since I've developed worsening depression, anxiety, derealization, joint/muscle/bone pain, CFS, IBS, heart issues, MS-like symptoms, and terrible brain fog! It was an Osteopath that finally put two and two together after asking if I ever had any weird rashes around the time I got ill. My GP agrees that lyme sounds likely but refuses to give me any treatment beyond meds for specific symptoms.

I'm not currently working so I can't afford any expensive tests, but I've managed to get enough money together for the basic Buhner protocol and some basic detoxing (chlorella, epsom salt baths, body brushing). I'm also starting to learn about mindfulness meditation, deep breathing and some basic yoga stuff. The osteo has also got me eating very clean - low carb, some protein and healthy fat and very high amount of healthy veg.

The symptom that bothers me the most and gives me the most anxiety is the cognitive dysfunction or "brain fog". On my worse days I worry that I'm going to get Alzheimers and forget about everyone and everything I hold dear. Back in 2009 I was a bright, outgoing student and now I have trouble with complex tasks like cooking and moments where I forget things like friend's names or when my appointments are scheduled. I forget how to play songs I used to know on the guitar, forget directions and even get my left/right confused all the time. It scares the hell out of me and there have been times when these symptoms have triggered full blown panic attacks.

I guess my main questions would be what has worked best for other people who have made it out of this nightmare? To what extent can the brain recover? I just need to know that there's a chance I'm going to be ok!

Sorry to go on for so long. Thanks for reading and good luck to anyone else dealing with this nasty infection!

Cowden's. Essential oils. Beyond Balance. These things helped me the most.

Your diet needs to be clean, balanced.

Gut function is a priority (probiotics and ensuring regular bowel movements, mainly).

Detox your butt off.

Exercise, if possible. Have hobbies.

Stay persistent with all the aspects of treatment.

That's the foundation. Easier said than done.

Healing is possible with alternative medicines, and without a doctor, but the goal should always be to see a literate physician and explore pharmaceutical options.

I'm not to where I'd consider better, but not as bad as I was. I've been sick eight years, treating for five, and just got in to see an LLMD this year.

I used to not work, but slowly started doing more as the months passed. I didn't want to, of course, but treatment requires money, right?

Try, if you can, something simple. You will need money for supplements and stuff. Thank God for whoever is giving you a place to stay, ensure they understand what you are going through - the toll it takes and the effort involved in getting better - and work hard at getting better (research but also making money) and put it all (well, most) toward your health.

Clunkytrain,

Welcome to the forum! I read on here for months, too, and finally joined recently. 2009 is the year my symptoms started, too. I'm using Buhner's protocol. I couldn't tolerate antibiotics. It made me worse, even for long after I stopped it.

Your symptoms sound a lot like Bartonella. Buhner's protocol is the most affordable and probably the most effective as far as I can tell. With herbs, you don't really need expensive labs to prove you have Lyme or coinfections.

Sounds like you're on the right track and have a good plan.

Mold can also cause a lot of the symptoms you mentioned. Biotoxin illness is the result of genetic activation on HLA-DR gene. Learn about CIRS and the Shoemaker Protocol so you don't miss anything. That genetic test is worth getting if your insurance covers it. Mine did.

I found Buhner's books and Dr Rawls "Unlocking Lyme" book to be perfect companions for the DIY treatment route. The books are pretty affordable. Hope this helps.

I'm sure already know this, but we are here for you! So glad you posted 😊

Thanks again for the further messages!

WalkingbyFaith: Yes I agree that bartonella is likely, especially considering that my dad was diagnosed with it before he passed away. I think babesia also. I'll look into mold and the shoemaker protocol -Thanks!

goshawk: Thanks for the advice! I have skimmed through the new to lyme stuff before but I will have a proper read on a day when I feel like I can take it all in...!

Purrrsiankitty: Thanks, I'm glad I posted too! Once I have a better understanding of all this stuff I'll try to become a more active member. I guess it's the same for everyone but there's so much to learn and it takes a long time when you feel so foggy!

PeteZa: Thanks for the further reassurance! I'm glad you and your husband are recovering. Hopefully with some work I can do the same!