just saw a llmd - started on a huge treatment plan - scared and confused about herxing

That does seem like a lot of meds to start on. Have you been sick for very long? I think herxing is worse depending on how much bacteria there is...

It also varies depending on the person. Some people don't feel that much worse with a herx...I get it pretty bad though. I'd try not to worry too much...see how it goes. If its too much you can probably cut down a little bit, as long as your doctor says its okay.

Sounds like a pretty comprehensive treatment plan though. Seems like you're in good hands. Best of luck!!

Hi Imoverit!

Wow, that is boatload of medications! Sounds like you are in good hands!

It is a lot to take in all at once -- both the medications and all the information. I imagine your doctor gave you some instruction on how to start up? Something along the lines of beginning one of the antibiotics and the probiotic, let that settle for a week and then add the next antibiotic, and keep on adding them one at a time until you have everything on board.

This will allow you to see if you are having a bad reaction to any particular thing, either herx or allergy. You'll be able to manage the herxing by backing off a med or delaying adding anything else until you are ready.

Herxing isn't something to be worried about; just something to manage. It is a worsening of symptoms caused by toxins released by bacterial die off. Detoxing (if you haven't already, review the "New to Lyme?" thread for instructions) and manipulating your meds can keep the herx reaction under control. You'll need plenty of rest.

So the herx reaction is a really good sign, however, "pushing on through it" has little merit. In fact, many doctors feel that "low and slow" is the most effective treatment approach -- particularly with long-held infections or those involving the central nervous system. This will be best for you if you plan to keep working through your treatment. Some people don't experience this reaction, and it doesn't have to be debilitating.

If you can, do try to keep stress to a minimum! I know it's hard, looking at that big list of meds; you've got to be thinking, "Wow, I must be really sick!". Remember a lot of that is for immune support, not just curative purposes. Also, you might want to make your dietary changes gradually-- that will be a pretty big shock to the system, in itself.

Keep us posted on this big Get Well project of yours!