Questions about herxing

Herxing is definitely an individuated experience, with some common factors.
Often I will be experiencing symptoms for many hours or a day before it dawns on me that a herx is starting. In my first month on abx, a herx was always preceded by an anxiety attack and feeling of derealization, then other symptoms would appear and I'd know to implement my herx protocol.

Lately, It's been a bit sneakier. But at the same time I've learned my lessons the hard way and begin to use extra detox and management measures earlier, which keeps things from getting out of hand. Who knows what next month might bring. I also have rescue meds now and know when to use them.

One thing is certain- a symptom journal is a useful tool. I keep track of my sleep quantity and quality, overall patterns of thinking, rate my aches and pains on the "10" scale, and note my ups and downs with neuro symptoms. Also key is start/stop dates for meds and supps, and general description of energy level and clarity of thought. I highlight big stuff, like incidents of arrhythmias or profound confusion. Over time, patterns emerge! I bring my journal to appointments.

Yes, a pure psych herx is possible. Remember, this is an infected brain being healed. Sparks are flying everywhere up in your brain, and if they land on an emotional or perceptual neural pathway, pow! you're off and running. So be wise, detached and kind with yourself (and others) when that happens.

One of the skills we pick up pretty quickly is pattern recognition, the ability to learn from what has happened-- then test the theories that spring from our observations.

I've had Lyme for about 7 years I believe. I was just diagnosed. I've seen 30 doctors and I asked to be tested for lyme. My doctor didn't see me and think lyme. I think I was first exposed to babesia and 3 years ago another strain based on symptoms. Through this battle I've been prescribed some different antibiotics. One made me extremely ill, Biaxin. That was for unknown tonsillitis infection. Now the doctor is wanting me to start antibiotics for the treatment of lyme and I'm terrified.

Hi Lymecoverupfedup!
Welcome to our community!! I'm so glad you found us! We have had quite a few members (myself included) that had a hard time getting our bodies to detox well, so we have tips for you!

I think most of us can understand your fear, but don't let it control you, only guide you to be cautious. You can get a gene mutation test (known as the MTHFR test) to see if you have any gene mutations that will make it more difficult for your body to detox. There are specific supplements that you can take to help your body detox better, depending on which gene mutations you have, if any.

We also have some great detoxing routines to suggest. There are some in the "New to Lyme? Start here!" thread that Girlie mentioned (along with a lot of other very valuable information as well!), plus here is this list of suggestions that many of us use: www.tiredoflyme.com/detox-methods.html

Biaxin is also one of the abx that are used to treat these infections, so it makes sense that you had a reaction (die off) like that. Detoxing and starting off on very small doses then ramping up slowly is the way to help get you through.