I think oral abx are hindering my recovery

Thanks P! I have been using the tea tree soap for almost a week now. It seems to have helped quite a bit!


UPDATE on me if anyone is interested~

I stopped all oral abx about 2 weeks ago. I started juicing and implementing liver detoxes as well as taking supplements including digestive enzymes and more probiotics to get my gut flora back. My diet is mostly vegan based with the exception of fish or occasional chicken and honey. No processed foods. I have also been able to tolerate larger doses of methyl B12 and methyl folate vitamins.

Things that are improving-
Energy, motivation, and mood. This has consistently stayed up. Occasionally I will get irritated at little things, but usually I don't have an issue as long as life doesn't get too hectic and I get enough sleep and the right nutrition. I really want to start working out like I used to, but I know I am not there. I don't feel the strength in my body yet.

Aches and pains. The only time I have this is when I am on day 3 or 4 of Artimisinin or oil of oregano without a small break. And then it is my upper body that is heavy and achy, especially my arms.

Stomach pains when eating- I usually always take a digestive enzyme with every meal, but sometimes I forget or don't have it with me when I am out and about. I have noticed that I have not been having the stomach pain with meals regardless. But, I still take it because I know it is helping me digest food and heal my gut.

Muscle twitching- I feel this intermittently at night while trying to fall asleep. Probably 3-4 nights a week vs all the time.

Memory and Cognition- Cognition is definitely making a comeback. I can problem solve better and I am less confused, like the "fog" has lifted. Memory is much better, all of a sudden I am remembering really random things from the past. Sometimes it feels like there are memories that were stored in a vault that I am slowly gaining access to! I will occasionally forget things like appointments but I notice this is more when I have a lot on my plate with the kids or I am trying to settle into a new routine. Thankfully, I have not missed any appointments but have ended up remembering at the last minute and then I was a few minutes late :)

Weight issues-
I am down 3 lbs from where I was when I quit orals almost 2 weeks ago, so 7 lbs total from when I started treatment in Dec. Some of my clothes are fitting a little better, but there are still many things in my wardrobe that I cannot wear and I remain frustrated about this. But, my intuition is telling me that by healing my gut and detoxing my liver and kidneys that the extra weight will slowly go.

I just had a urine analysis and blood draw this morning to check liver and kidney function. This was a couple months overdue really. But I am interested to see what the results are. Should have them in a couple of days.

I was terrified that if I went off abx, that lyme and co would come raging back. Maybe it is too soon to tell, but so far I am very satisfied with the direction things are headed. I have a script for a compounded Flagyl and one for an injectable ceftin, but I am going to hold off unless things start going south.

That is all I have for now. Just thought I would fill you in and maybe provide a little hope to those who may have been in a similar situation and are still searching for answers on what to do next! :)

Thanks for the very thorough update Lymie Mom. I'm happy you're feeling a bit better. I'm so sorry you have had all these problems!

This is a great thread. I find the info very insightful and useful.

Hang in there! Keep us posted. :)