New and wanting basic info: Moderators?

Hi Reba,

I'm currently working on an updated New to Lyme thread :) It probably will not be done until Sunday though.

As far as generally recognized test, Igenex is the standard. Ispot seems promising but I'll reserve judgement until it has been out a bit longer but so far - yes ispot seems good. Some mention a low CD57 number as an indicator. Some LLMD's use that. I kind of think dr's jumped on that bandwagon a little too fast. Not too familiar with immunosciences.

Unfortunately, most llmd's have a min. of a 6 week wait but November? Wow, that is a long time. Many of us travel to get in to see an LLMD so maybe you can expand your region. Contact local support groups and see who they use. Personal recommendations are best for sure. You can also contact Igenex or ILADs.

As far as lyme indicators I do think that is different. I don't hear of many having blood work out of range. I did have macrocytosis and low WBC, both went away with antibiotics. My WBC almost doubled during treatment (!). That was an indication to me of immune suppression.

Many, if they have had it for awhile will have things out of whack. Auto-immune indicators, higher ANA titers, elevated SED rates, elevated CRP, but again, many do not.

Hmmm. Wow top 3 websites...that is a tough one I will have to think of.

I would say most important things starting out are diet, detox, and keeping an open mind. Many heal from lyme using alternative protocols, many use antibiotics. There is no one-size-fits all. Take all information you read online with a grain of salt.

As far as treatment, pick a course-start slow. If you don't see improvements within 3-4 months, change. I'm sure others will have more to say!

~beth

and Welcome!

Yes, there is a lot to learn and the learning never ends! Welcome to the forum!