Hi, MommyC:
Yes, there is hope. Here are two threads that should give you some inspiration:
https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=30&m=3562412https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=30&m=4045548If you've not already done so, I'd suggest reading through the following thread:
New to Lyme? Start Here!https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=30&m=1606610The "New to Lyme" post is permanently pinned at the top of the main page of the Lyme forum. Just look above all the other posts, if you need to refer to it in the future. Or, you can bookmark helpful posts. Perhaps create a folder titled "Lyme" in your browser's bookmarks. You could even add sub-folders, if you wish to further categorize posts.
If you're interested in reading blogs or books on the topic of Lyme Disease, here are a few (of many):
https://rawlsmd.comhttps://cangetbetter.comhttps://martyrossmd.comhttp://buhnerhealinglyme.comThis is far from an exhaustive list, as I don't want to overwhelm you any further.
However...My opinion is that you will likely benefit from reading on the topic of Lyme Disease, the available tests and their level of usefulness, the various treatments and protocols available, and the two opposing groups of doctors who treat Lyme Disease -- the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS).
If you plan to work under the guidance of a Lyme-Literate Medical Doctor (LLMD), you could put yourself completely in their hands, if you don't have the time or inclination to study the aforementioned topics. However, even if following the guidance of a practitioner, I still believe that any additional information you can learn will help you be a better consumer and a better patient. However, that's an opinion. Do what's best for you.
Finally, I'll offer a few more suggestions for you to consider. Take what works, leave the rest, and modify as necessary for your specific situation.
- Lyme Disease is a complex illness with symptoms that overlap with many other conditions.
- A "disease" is simply a name for a collection of symptoms. The symptoms are not the underlying dysfunction.
- Personally, I try not to get hung up on labels like "Lyme Disease." Labels can sometimes be constraining and cause unnecessary discord with others -- including healthcare providers. It's easier to be kind than right.
- We each have a finite amount of time, energy, and attention. I suggest focusing those precious resources on things that move you in the direction of feeling better -- mentally, physically, emotionally, etc.
- For me, the goal is to have a good quality of life, as much as possible. I do my best to remember the saying: "The best is the enemy of the good." Any improvements are a step in the correct direction and are welcome.
- I accept that my life will never be the same as it was before falling ill. That's not necessarily a bad thing, as I now have insights I likely wouldn't have learned any other way. Life, actually, can be even better than before.
- Though some view treating Lyme Disease as a war, that's not my preference. I can't imagine bombing my way into peace. Our bodies automatically repair and heal themselves. How well they do (or, don't) do this depends on the level of the level of dysfunction and the impediments we place in their path. Our actions matter.
Again, these are simply my opinions. They've changed over time, will surely continue to evolve, and may conflict with the opinions of others. You'll have to find what works best for you.
Welcome to the forum. I wish you good luck and much success.
Dude