Several months ago I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease. I had been complaining of a multitude of the various symptoms of Lyme Disease for years. I had blood tests, CAT scans, neurological tests, MRIs, Utrasound, and more. When I finally got to the doctor who diagnosed the Lyme I was starting to have some drooping on the left side of my face, the muscles in my face were twitching from time to time, I was falling down [nose first] for no reason, suffering with tennitas, migrane headaches, and I was simply sick and exhausted all the time.

I have seen numerous posts on SOMD Online warning about the misdiagnosis of Lyme Disease. I've also seen some complaints about the significant number of Lyme patients in Southern Maryland. Today yet another site was posted to the Lyme Discussion thread.

It's time we discussed this again.

My husband says that he doubts I would have ever been diagnosed with Lyme Disease if I didn't have good insurance. I have to agree with him for two reasons.


The second and third stages of Lyme have so many symptoms that are common in aging. alzheimers (http://www.lyme-disease-research-database.com/lyme_disease_blog_files/Alzheimers-Lyme-Disease3.html) and arthritis (http://www.arthritis.org/disease-center.php?disease_id=13) are good examples of common diseases usually attributed to aging.

Testing and treating for Lyme Disease is extremely expensive.
I read somewhere that the treatment of Lyme Disease can cost the insurance company as much as $100,000.00 per patient. In my case [cosidering all the tests with normal range results] the combined cost over the years may be well into the $200,000.00 range. That cost could have been reduced significantly if the doctors had looked at the whole picture instead of stopping after each test.


Are there case histories of doctors who over medicate and experiment with their patients? Probably... But... should that tie the hands of our doctor who makes the diagnosis based on the overall clinical picture, including medical history and physical findings, keep up with the latest guidelines, follow his patients progress carefully, and care for the patient to the best of his ability?

For those of you who wonder now if [I]I really have lyme... my test came back absolutely, positively, not doubt about it... positive for lyme... and when this round of antibiotics is done... I should feel much much better.

thanks you for posting this. i think so often people are misdiagnosed and the docs want to blame it on something else or give the patients meds for psycological diagnosis instead. my daughter has been tested several times but has always come back negative. still she has almost all the symptoms. what other testing is what finally led to your diagnosis. she's had all the xrays, MRI's, and labs?Several months ago I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease. I had been complaining of a multitude of the various symptoms of Lyme Disease for years. I had blood tests, CAT scans, neurological tests, MRIs, Utrasound, and more. When I finally got to the doctor who diagnosed the Lyme I was starting to have some drooping on the left side of my face, the muscles in my face were twitching from time to time, I was falling down [nose first] for no reason, suffering with tennitas, migrane headaches, and I was simply sick and exhausted all the time.

I have seen numerous posts on SOMD Online warning about the misdiagnosis of Lyme Disease. I've also seen some complaints about the significant number of Lyme patients in Southern Maryland. Today yet another site was posted to the Lyme Discussion thread.

It's time we discussed this again.

My husband says that he doubts I would have ever been diagnosed with Lyme Disease if I didn't have good insurance. I have to agree with him for two reasons.


The second and third stages of Lyme have so many symptoms that are common in aging. alzheimers (http://www.lyme-disease-research-database.com/lyme_disease_blog_files/Alzheimers-Lyme-Disease3.html) and arthritis (http://www.arthritis.org/disease-center.php?disease_id=13) are good examples of common diseases usually attributed to aging.

Testing and treating for Lyme Disease is extremely expensive.
I read somewhere that the treatment of Lyme Disease can cost the insurance company as much as $100,000.00 per patient. In my case [cosidering all the tests with normal range results] the combined cost over the years may be well into the $200,000.00 range. That cost could have been reduced significantly if the doctors had looked at the whole picture instead of stopping after each test.


Are there case histories of doctors who over medicate and experiment with their patients? Probably... But... should that tie the hands of our doctor who makes the diagnosis based on the overall clinical picture, including medical history and physical findings, keep up with the latest guidelines, follow his patients progress carefully, and care for the patient to the best of his ability?

For those of you who wonder now if [I]I really have lyme... my test came back absolutely, positively, not doubt about it... positive for lyme... and when this round of antibiotics is done... I should feel much much better.

Lyme disease is a huge problem in Southern Maryland. If you can't afford medical treatment by a local doctor, please contact the local health department for assistance. Do not let it go if you believe you have it. The tick that causes Lyme is very small and hard to see. Put some bird seed out, (limited amount) to attract some birds. Once various types of birds arrive, they will hang around and check the ground throughout your area for additional food. If you take the time, you can actually watch them do this. While searching, the birds will find ticks and other bugs to eat, greatly reducing your chance of Lyme disease. Putting Cutter on your ankles helps and try to stay away from trees with low branches. If you already have it, or you suspect you do, seek treatment immediately. Good luck.

thanks you for posting this. i think so often people are misdiagnosed and the docs want to blame it on something else or give the patients meds for psycological diagnosis instead. my daughter has been tested several times but has always come back negative. still she has almost all the symptoms. what other testing is what finally led to your diagnosis. she's had all the xrays, MRI's, and labs?

A couple comments on testing....

I don't think I was ever tested for Lyme by the other doctors.
My doctor [the one that found the Lyme diagnosis] looked at all the symptoms, took a thorough family history, did a thorough physical exam and studied all the past test results
Once my doctor saw the possible Lyme diagnosis, he started me on the antibiotics and ran a test.
The Lyme responds to the antibiotics and shows itself


My doctor says that he's not a Lyme Doctor. He's a doctor with a lot of Lyme patients.

If I hadn't had the insurance to get all the tests, and if I couldn't afford to keep harping on my own behalf, I would still be getting sicker by the day.:coffee:

Lyme disease is a huge problem in Southern Maryland. If you can't afford medical treatment by a local doctor, please contact the local health department for assistance. Do not let it go if you believe you have it. The tick that causes Lyme is very small and hard to see. Put some bird seed out, (limited amount) to attract some birds. Once various types of birds arrive, they will hang around and check the ground throughout your area for additional food. If you take the time, you can actually watch them do this. While searching, the birds will find ticks and other bugs to eat, greatly reducing your chance of Lyme disease. Putting Cutter on your ankles helps and try to stay away from trees with low branches. If you already have it, or you suspect you do, seek treatment immediately. Good luck.

This is good advice. :coffee:

These ticks are really really really tiny. If you care for bushes and plants that deer relish, it might be a good idea to take a good hot shower and have someone check you for ticks after working in the garden.

A couple comments on testing....

I don't think I was ever tested for Lyme by the other doctors.
My doctor [the one that found the Lyme diagnosis] looked at all the symptoms, took a thorough family history, did a thorough physical exam and studied all the past test results
Once my doctor saw the possible Lyme diagnosis, he started me on the antibiotics and ran a test.
The Lyme responds to the antibiotics and shows itself


My doctor says that he's not a Lyme Doctor. He's a doctor with a lot of Lyme patients.

If I hadn't had the insurance to get all the tests, and if I couldn't afford to keep harping on my own behalf, I would still be getting sicker by the day.:coffee:



This is good advice. :coffee:

These ticks are really really really tiny. If you care for bushes and plants that deer relish, it might be a good idea to take a good hot shower and have someone check you for ticks after working in the garden.

The ixodes tick is about the size of a period on a printed page (not enlarged, granny-is-going-blind page).

The ixodes tick is about the size of a period on a printed page (not enlarged, granny-is-going-blind page).

3tiPndMqxLQ
Have you heard this song? Maybe more people would be gardening:buddies:

On the other hand.... who would think such a tiny thing could cause such big problems.

I do wonder what percentage of people in SOMD have Lyme disease (and know it) vs. who don't.
I work outside with horses, have all my life spent a lot of time where ticks are, can't tell you how many ticks i pull off myself every summer. not to mention off the horses and dogs.
Other than the bullseye rash, what's the first sign that you should try to get tested and how do you convince the doc to do the test?
Its so easy to get the veterinarian to test your dog or horse, get them treated with doxycycline. why the heck is it so hard for people? Maybe i'll just get my vet to test me...lol
PS: how do i get brad paisley to check me for ticks?:killingme

I do wonder what percentage of people in SOMD have Lyme disease (and know it) vs. who don't.
I work outside with horses, have all my life spent a lot of time where ticks are, can't tell you how many ticks i pull off myself every summer. not to mention off the horses and dogs.
Other than the bullseye rash, what's the first sign that you should try to get tested and how do you convince the doc to do the test?
Its so easy to get the veterinarian to test your dog or horse, get them treated with doxycycline. why the heck is it so hard for people? Maybe i'll just get my vet to test me...lol
PS: how do i get brad paisley to check me for ticks?:killingme

Most don't get the rash, or don't notice it. I never did.

I tested poss. for Rocky Mt. Spotted Fever... and so did my friend!
My Lyme titer is neg :shrug:

My Doc had no prob doing the tests for me due to some of the symptoms.... (I had treated myself already LOL)

I do wonder what percentage of people in SOMD have Lyme disease (and know it) vs. who don't.
I work outside with horses, have all my life spent a lot of time where ticks are, can't tell you how many ticks i pull off myself every summer. not to mention off the horses and dogs.
Other than the bullseye rash, what's the first sign that you should try to get tested and how do you convince the doc to do the test?
Its so easy to get the veterinarian to test your dog or horse, get them treated with doxycycline. why the heck is it so hard for people? Maybe i'll just get my vet to test me...lol
PS: how do i get brad paisley to check me for ticks?:killingme


This is a pretty good site (http://www.acponline.org/clinical_information/resources/lyme_disease/patient/diagnosis.htm).... it speaks in plain language anyway....

When I saw this picture just now... I pinpointed the place and time I got bit. As a matter of fact... I know for a fact I have been bitten 3 years in a row. It happened in my back yard and it happened when I was gardening. I thought it was a spider bite. I got bit on my left hand each time. Each time my hand swelled too.

Apparently there are a few of these on the tube.
x40EcWPPiBI

yGBRVEIpyEE&feature=fvw

Several months ago I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease. I had been complaining of a multitude of the various symptoms of Lyme Disease for years. I had blood tests, CAT scans, neurological tests, MRIs, Utrasound, and more. When I finally got to the doctor who diagnosed the Lyme I was starting to have some drooping on the left side of my face, the muscles in my face were twitching from time to time, I was falling down [nose first] for no reason, suffering with tennitas, migrane headaches, and I was simply sick and exhausted all the time.

I have seen numerous posts on SOMD Online warning about the misdiagnosis of Lyme Disease. I've also seen some complaints about the significant number of Lyme patients in Southern Maryland. Today yet another site was posted to the Lyme Discussion thread.

It's time we discussed this again.

My husband says that he doubts I would have ever been diagnosed with Lyme Disease if I didn't have good insurance. I have to agree with him for two reasons.


The second and third stages of Lyme have so many symptoms that are common in aging. alzheimers (http://www.lyme-disease-research-database.com/lyme_disease_blog_files/Alzheimers-Lyme-Disease3.html) and arthritis (http://www.arthritis.org/disease-center.php?disease_id=13) are good examples of common diseases usually attributed to aging.

Testing and treating for Lyme Disease is extremely expensive.
I read somewhere that the treatment of Lyme Disease can cost the insurance company as much as $100,000.00 per patient. In my case [cosidering all the tests with normal range results] the combined cost over the years may be well into the $200,000.00 range. That cost could have been reduced significantly if the doctors had looked at the whole picture instead of stopping after each test.


Are there case histories of doctors who over medicate and experiment with their patients? Probably... But... should that tie the hands of our doctor who makes the diagnosis based on the overall clinical picture, including medical history and physical findings, keep up with the latest guidelines, follow his patients progress carefully, and care for the patient to the best of his ability?

For those of you who wonder now if [I]I really have lyme... my test came back absolutely, positively, not doubt about it... positive for lyme... and when this round of antibiotics is done... I should feel much much better.



I have a few questions. I've never really gave it much thought before but I came across this post and I hope for a reply!

I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease when I was 15. I took antibiotics via PICC line for a month or so and was out of school but my mother passed away and did NOT want to be home during the day. I had the PICC line removed shortly after and they said I was good to go and just needed to follow up with my specialist. Well all things considered my mother was the one taking care of me and that never happened. So now I come to my questions/concerns. I never had a follow up. If they said I didn't need to take antibiotics anymore is it really that big of a deal, you think? When I was diagnosed the only symptom I had was excessive tiredness/insomnia. A few years ago I started getting migraine/migraine like headaches. I've never had them before but just thought it was genetics catching up with me since they run in the family. Also my knees ache so badly sometimes and that started around the same time as the migraines from what I can remember. I mean like I'll be sitting Indian style on my bed for a hot second and go to move or stand up and feel 8- years old cause I can't stretch my legs out right away! I'm still tired a LOT and I always blame that on my battles with depression. For example the other day I went to bed around 3am woke up at 1pm DEAD tired and took a nap almost immediately and woke back up around 3:30pm.

I was told when I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease that most of the symptoms never go away. So my question is... do you ever have any flair ups? Was I misinformed? I know I should go to the Dr. but I'm 22 almost 23 now, I have no insurance, and wouldn't have a clue where to start. I would just like some information from a fellow Lyme Disease diagnosee!

I have a few questions. I've never really gave it much thought before but I came across this post and I hope for a reply!

I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease when I was 15. I took antibiotics via PICC line for a month or so and was out of school but my mother passed away and did NOT want to be home during the day. I had the PICC line removed shortly after and they said I was good to go and just needed to follow up with my specialist. Well all things considered my mother was the one taking care of me and that never happened. So now I come to my questions/concerns. I never had a follow up. If they said I didn't need to take antibiotics anymore is it really that big of a deal, you think? When I was diagnosed the only symptom I had was excessive tiredness/insomnia. A few years ago I started getting migraine/migraine like headaches. I've never had them before but just thought it was genetics catching up with me since they run in the family. Also my knees ache so badly sometimes and that started around the same time as the migraines from what I can remember. I mean like I'll be sitting Indian style on my bed for a hot second and go to move or stand up and feel 8- years old cause I can't stretch my legs out right away! I'm still tired a LOT and I always blame that on my battles with depression. For example the other day I went to bed around 3am woke up at 1pm DEAD tired and took a nap almost immediately and woke back up around 3:30pm.

I was told when I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease that most of the symptoms never go away. So my question is... do you ever have any flair ups? Was I misinformed? I know I should go to the Dr. but I'm 22 almost 23 now, I have no insurance, and wouldn't have a clue where to start. I would just like some information from a fellow Lyme Disease diagnosee!

Hello,
I have Lyme and have been undergoing treatment for a year. As far as my research has shown me the doctors are uncertain as to whether it can ever be cured. It is possible that like cancer it only goes into remission. They have discovered that the bacteria hides from antibiotics and changes form.
There are also the co-infections that can come with lyme. These can hinder the treatment for lyme from being effective. After being on anti-biotics for a year the doctor put me on a treatment for a co-infection and it has really been helping. I feel better than I have in a year. I am suppose to finish this treatment next week and hopefully just maintain with natural treatments to support my immune system.
As for the issue with not having insurance, some doctors might work out a payment plan for you. If you want to send me a private message I could give you a couple of places to check into.
I hope that this helps. I'm sorry you are having to deal with this. There are a couple of discussions on here concerning lyme that may help you also.
God Bless,
Kathy

I have a few questions. I've never really gave it much thought before but I came across this post and I hope for a reply!

I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease when I was 15. I took antibiotics via PICC line for a month or so and was out of school but my mother passed away and did NOT want to be home during the day. I had the PICC line removed shortly after and they said I was good to go and just needed to follow up with my specialist. Well all things considered my mother was the one taking care of me and that never happened. So now I come to my questions/concerns. I never had a follow up. If they said I didn't need to take antibiotics anymore is it really that big of a deal, you think? When I was diagnosed the only symptom I had was excessive tiredness/insomnia. A few years ago I started getting migraine/migraine like headaches. I've never had them before but just thought it was genetics catching up with me since they run in the family. Also my knees ache so badly sometimes and that started around the same time as the migraines from what I can remember. I mean like I'll be sitting Indian style on my bed for a hot second and go to move or stand up and feel 8- years old cause I can't stretch my legs out right away! I'm still tired a LOT and I always blame that on my battles with depression. For example the other day I went to bed around 3am woke up at 1pm DEAD tired and took a nap almost immediately and woke back up around 3:30pm.

I was told when I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease that most of the symptoms never go away. So my question is... do you ever have any flair ups? Was I misinformed? I know I should go to the Dr. but I'm 22 almost 23 now, I have no insurance, and wouldn't have a clue where to start. I would just like some information from a fellow Lyme Disease diagnosee!


Sorry about the lapse. I really was hoping that I could report that Lyme can be cured. I guess if you catch it in time, take the right antibiotice immediately... before the toxins have a chance to make themselves at home.... then I guess it can be cured.

Once you get to the point where you need the pic line or central line for infusion therapy.... it's probably too late to get rid of it....

I had my central line inserted in November 2009. It was removed April 2010 nearly 5 months to the day.... and I had to get infusions 2 X a day every day for that period. My ability to fight off infection at that point was ZERO.... my B12 and D were whiped out.... but when the central line came out I was feeling so much better.... I really thought I was cured.

About 2 weeks ago the symptoms started coming back....

Exhaustion
Aching in the joints
Shooting Random Pains
Headach
Blurring in the eyes
Spots in the eyes
Short term memory loss
Attention Deficite
Mood Swings
Starving for oxygen
Weight Gain
The face twitching hasn't returned [hoping that one is gone]
My heart is still beating regularly [hoping that one is cured]

Nope.... once the bug makes itself at home.... it's apparently very very very difficult to evict....

I hope you are feeling a little better today.... hang in there .... find a great lyme doctor.... stick with the plan....

Sorry to hear about your mom....

Here's a link (http://www.mdjunction.com/lyme-disease) to the best support group I found.

I'll watch this site to see if you have any other questions.... welcome to anti-bambi land.... Oh and thumper can be a carrier too!:coffee:

Thank you for the replies. It helps a lot to have support. I guess my first plan of action is to get tested again. I don't know if it would matter but it's a start. If anyone knows of any decent Lyme disease doctors in the area that would be tons of help. Apparently the internet is useless when it comes to LD! Go figure! I was thinking about just going to a regular doctor to be tested but then there are some doctors that think LD is just ridiculous so it would be a waste of money to go... Then there are doctors that could possibly blow it out of proportion and shake the change out of my pockets so to speak. I'm paranoid. I don't even know if that's caused by LD! But I know I am! lol. It's hard to differentiate between LD symptoms and just normal for me. Is that bad? I've always thought I was "crazy" in some way or another. There have been nights that I've kept my BF up at night crying cause I "just want to be normal and not feel like I'm a crazy." It's horrible. Reading about this post made me think about things so much more. I started getting migraines and knee pain around the same time. I've always been a night person but actual insomnia started around that time as well. Believe it or not I'm praying that my LD has come back. With everything that is wrong with me I feel like it could be something worse or even worse... just a bunch of things wrong with me.

I tend to ramble :blahblah:... esp. at 4am. Thanks for reading/replying if you did/do!

I honestly think that in the coming years, lyme will become more of an epidemic. I am sure that many people in this area have it and don't even know, since the symptoms are so vague that most people chalk it up to something else and doctors don't even have lyme on their radar. Add that to the fact that a good number of people that have lyme test negative for it and you have a lot of sick people walking around out there.

I've been doing quite a bit of research on lyme - I have lyme myself. First tested positive about 10 years ago (after having been diagnosed with a brain tumor, MS, lupus, you name it...) and I was treated with IV antibiotics back then. After I gave birth the symptoms started creeping back - and fast forward about 6 years and I feel like I was never even treated. I had been tested for lyme about 4 years ago when the symptoms started again, that test was negative and I was sent on my way with a rheumatoid arthritis dx - then I was tested again last winter and the test came back positive. I KNOW that I wasn't bitten again by a tick - so the disease must be more auto-immune in nature like other posters have said. I believe that once you have lyme (and it gets past the initial stage) then you are a lymie for life. You never get rid of it. Yes, that is sobering news for lymies - but it is so important to know so you can adjust your life accordingly. I have a picc line in again right now - and I am in my 30's and will likely have a third line, maybe even a fourth, in my lifetime. Ticks suck...

Hotcoffee we have the same doctor - I am very thankful that I found him - even after my positive lyme test in December my previous doctor gave me 2 weeks of abx and told me I would be fine. I knew otherwise but he wouldn't listen... because apparently the CDC knows my body better than I do. :bigwhoop: Thank goodness there are doctors out there who *listen* instead of just following a textbook.

Hello!
I hope you all are feeling better soon! Sorry you have to go through all that. Could anyone please tell me if Dr. Cafferty is seeing patients, and if he has gotten rid of that crazy office manager? I think her name was Stephanie. I use to see Dr. Cafferty, (not Lyme related), but left after listening to his office manager curse and carry on each time. My two boys(then both under 5), received an early education of 4- letter words there in the waiting room. I remember the patients use to all look at each other with incredulous looks every time she screamed at someone on the telephone, or called someone an ugly name- such as Crazy F****** B****! One man was thinking about trying to sell popcorn in the waiting room as part of her side show. She also talked to Dr. C himself like he was dirt on her floor. After our 3rd visit of witnessing her shameful behavior, we finally left. It is a shame as he is a good doctor, and seems like a caring person. I really do need to have one of my children tested for Lyme though, and understand he is very good with Lyme patients and would like to try and go back. We all also need a regular family doc. If that crazy woman is still there, I would rather find a different doctor. I don't mind a long drive if need be. Any suggestions? Really, I hope you all will get well once and for all. Hugs, Sue

Dr. Cafferty's girlfriend no longer works in the office.

I recently heard that they are asking patients to be nice to the staff.

Dr. Cafferty's girlfriend no longer works in the office.

I recently heard that they are asking patients to be nice to the staff.
she's his wife. i'm surprised she's gone.

For all my fellow lyme sufferers, I have set-up a facebook page - please go there and share your online resources, book recommendations and stories of treatment. I hope it can become an online support group for those who cannot make it to the group in Calvert.

Southern Maryland Lyme - Community | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SouthernMarylandLymeDisease)

she's his wife. i'm surprised she's gone.

Stephanie is his Wife, but I heard she works from home now, although..she makes frequent stops to the Office for various reasons. Don't let that stop you from going there, because he is a GOOD Doctor, and is very compassionate to LD Patients, and his other Patients as well.

Stephanie is his Wife, but I heard she works from home now, although..she makes frequent stops to the Office for various reasons. Don't let that stop you from going there, because he is a GOOD Doctor, and is very compassionate to LD Patients, and his other Patients as well.

She still works there. I've been to his office a lot the past couple of months, and every time she's been there. The last time I was there, her and some lady were in one of the patient rooms crying (I was in the room next to them). I just thought "whatever". She wasn't bothering me and I was there to see Cafferty. She is awfully pushy. I feel bad for the current receptionist.

But as you already know, he is a great doctor. I wouldn't let her stop you from going back. Maybe tell her to watch her mouth.

Hello!
I hope you all are feeling better soon! Sorry you have to go through all that. Could anyone please tell me if Dr. Cafferty is seeing patients, and if he has gotten rid of that crazy office manager? I think her name was Stephanie. I use to see Dr. Cafferty, (not Lyme related), but left after listening to his office manager curse and carry on each time. My two boys(then both under 5), received an early education of 4- letter words there in the waiting room. I remember the patients use to all look at each other with incredulous looks every time she screamed at someone on the telephone, or called someone an ugly name- such as Crazy F****** B****! One man was thinking about trying to sell popcorn in the waiting room as part of her side show. She also talked to Dr. C himself like he was dirt on her floor. After our 3rd visit of witnessing her shameful behavior, we finally left. It is a shame as he is a good doctor, and seems like a caring person. I really do need to have one of my children tested for Lyme though, and understand he is very good with Lyme patients and would like to try and go back. We all also need a regular family doc. If that crazy woman is still there, I would rather find a different doctor. I don't mind a long drive if need be. Any suggestions? Really, I hope you all will get well once and for all. Hugs, Sue

I just came from Dr. Cafferty's office. He's awesome. I've been going to him for well over a year and I haven't had a single.... nope not one problem ever... [not counting that he had a heart attack but he's better now]. Great Doctor... good staff.... TV in the waiting room.... clean office.... great place to go.... I highly recommend Dr. Cafferty....

I just came from Dr. Cafferty's office. He's awesome. I've been going to him for well over a year and I haven't had a single.... nope not one problem ever... [not counting that he had a heart attack but he's better now]. Great Doctor... good staff.... TV in the waiting room.... clean office.... great place to go.... I highly recommend Dr. Cafferty....


Dr Cafferty is great. I don't know what my family would do without him. Seems like we are there almost every Thursday.



Southern Maryland Lyme | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SouthernMarylandLymeDisease)

Yep, Doctor Cafferty is a great guy and an awesome doctor. I think it is that office woman dragging him down. Why doesn't he get rid of her? I've heard more complaints about her than anything. I've only seen her twice, and both times she was an absolute witch! I don't think she could be his wife, I think she is the manager. Theres no way he would marry that thing. What's her problem?????
Hot Coffee, I remember you, I hope you are doing better these days. Real sorry you've been dealing with Lyme. I'm glad you've got doc C on yur side! I'm sick of people bashing him when he's trying to help so many people. On the other hand, people also have a right to complain about the office staff.

Yep, Doctor Cafferty is a great guy and an awesome doctor. I think it is that office woman dragging him down. Why doesn't he get rid of her? I've heard more complaints about her than anything. I've only seen her twice, and both times she was an absolute witch! I don't think she could be his wife, I think she is the manager. Theres no way he would marry that thing. What's her problem?????
Hot Coffee, I remember you, I hope you are doing better these days. Real sorry you've been dealing with Lyme. I'm glad you've got doc C on yur side! I'm sick of people bashing him when he's trying to help so many people. On the other hand, people also have a right to complain about the office staff.

Actually, I just walked back in the door from a trip to GWU Hospital. I am doing much much much better thanks... thanks to Dr. Cafferty and staff...

I'm now going to work on that weight I gained thanks to the Lyme Disease. My GB surgery is scheduled for May 17. Thanks to the staff and Dr. Cafferty, all my paperwork went right through and the insurance company authorized the surgery on the first try!

I've never had a complaint with the office staff there at all. They have always been willing and able to help me out, scheduling appointments, and getting paperwork ready for me for the insurance companies etc.

Every office has it's good days and bad days.... I've only heard the staff raise their voice once in all the visits I have had there. I think that's excellent. I was at one other doctor's office in Lusby area and the nurses were saying horrible things about the patients. I never heard anything like that when I visited Dr. Cafferty. :coffee:

Actually, I just walked back in the door from a trip to GWU Hospital. I am doing much much much better thanks... thanks to Dr. Cafferty and staff...

I'm now going to work on that weight I gained thanks to the Lyme Disease. My GB surgery is scheduled for May 17. Thanks to the staff and Dr. Cafferty, all my paperwork went right through and the insurance company authorized the surgery on the first try!

I've never had a complaint with the office staff there at all. They have always been willing and able to help me out, scheduling appointments, and getting paperwork ready for me for the insurance companies etc.

Every office has it's good days and bad days.... I've only heard the staff raise their voice once in all the visits I have had there. I think that's excellent. I was at one other doctor's office in Lusby area and the nurses were saying horrible things about the patients. I never heard anything like that when I visited Dr. Cafferty. :coffee:


Coffee,

Oh, it's not so much the staff, it's the crazy office manager. You'll have a run -in with her at some point. I am so glad you are doing so much better. That weight gain is common with lyme. I know many people with lyme and they have all gained about 30-40 lbs. Adrenal problems are also common from the lyme. I don't wish lyme on anyone! That really is great though, let us know how your surgery goes. I wish you all the best!
Oh, and that makes me mad, what you said about the staff talking about the patients like that. That is just w-r-o-n-g. They know who they are I am sure.
Bravo Dr. Cafferty for treating you and making you better!
:yahoo::

Coffee,

Oh, it's not so much the staff, it's the crazy office manager. You'll have a run -in with her at some point. I am so glad you are doing so much better. That weight gain is common with lyme. I know many people with lyme and they have all gained about 30-40 lbs. Adrenal problems are also common from the lyme. I don't wish lyme on anyone! That really is great though, let us know how your surgery goes. I wish you all the best!
Oh, and that makes me mad, what you said about the staff talking about the patients like that. That is just w-r-o-n-g. They know who they are I am sure.
Bravo Dr. Cafferty for treating you and making you better!
:yahoo::

Let me get this clear.... it was the staff at Dr. Cafferty's office that was talking about the patients.... it was at a doctor's office in the Lusby area.

One more thing... in my travels I had the displeasure of hearing an employee of another doctor who was talking about the staff at another doctor's office. This was not only unprofessional... it was mean. I was not impressed with this employee and it makes me suspicious about her other qualifications.

Like I said... everyone has bad days and good days.

Let me get this clear.... it was the staff at Dr. Cafferty's office that was talking about the patients.... it was at a doctor's office in the Lusby area.

One more thing... in my travels I had the displeasure of hearing an employee of another doctor who was talking about the staff at another doctor's office. This was not only unprofessional... it was mean. I was not impressed with this employee and it makes me suspicious about her other qualifications.

Like I said... everyone has bad days and good days.


Right, I knew you weren't talking about his staff because you said it was an office in lusby. I wasn't implying that it was Cafferty's office at all. I wrote that whoever it is knows they are doing it. It's not only unprofessional, it's catty and uncharitable. I dont have a problem with Doc Cafferty or his ofice at all, but it's his manager that will cost him his practice sooner or later, which will be a shame. Just sayin... I've been there and have seen it and heard it.
Good luck with your surgery!

I tested poss. for Rocky Mt. Spotted Fever...

Same here.

I tested negative for lymes as well. However, I've read that the lymes test can render false negatives. Still a relief none the less.

The RMSF positive was curious - my parents were surprised...as was I.

Same here.

I tested negative for lymes as well. However, I've read that the lymes test can render false negatives. Still a relief none the less.

The RMSF positive was curious - my parents were surprised...as was I.

I tested negative for lyme once..... then Dr. Cafferty read the symptoms, put me on Doxy, and tested again. My blood test lit up for Lyme like a Christmas Tree. Them little Lyme boogers just hate Doxy.... they start running around and leaving DNA everywhere so it can be picked up in a test.

Good to know.....:coffee:

You'd think that I'd be well-versed with Lymes, as I use to work with Dr Cafferty, but it's been a few years. My question is.."Can Lyme's cause symptoms of Sciatic Nerve problems"? Never had a back injury, but within one week of pulling a small Tick from my neck, I had pain shooting from the Butt-Cheek, down my left leg, and it keeps me up at night sometimes. Also wanted to let you know that if you think you might have Lymes, but the test comes back negative, have them check a C 6 Peptide. Make sure you tell the Nurse to look it up, because it needs special handeling, a special tube, and it needs to be frozen, and it is a Lab that doesn't get checked often. Plus, it has to be sent to a different lab, so also check with your Insurance Company to see if they cover it.

You'd think that I'd be well-versed with Lymes, as I use to work with Dr Cafferty, but it's been a few years. My question is.."Can Lyme's cause symptoms of Sciatic Nerve problems"? Never had a back injury, but within one week of pulling a small Tick from my neck, I had pain shooting from the Butt-Cheek, down my left leg, and it keeps me up at night sometimes. Also wanted to let you know that if you think you might have Lymes, but the test comes back negative, have them check a C 6 Peptide. Make sure you tell the Nurse to look it up, because it needs special handeling, a special tube, and it needs to be frozen, and it is a Lab that doesn't get checked often. Plus, it has to be sent to a different lab, so also check with your Insurance Company to see if they cover it.

Lyme can do so many things to the body, I wouldn't be at all surprised if it could indeed get to the sciatic nerve. In my case, for instance, I used to fall down, face first for absolutely no reason. It didn't happen a lot but when it did it was embarrassing and it hurt like crazy. Turns out I have neurological damage from Lyme.

As I said, I did test negative for lyme.... but after the doxy stirred the little boogers up... they left their DNA all over the place.

Perhaps the problem with the sciatic nerve is more a problem with a disk that may be bulging [arthritis is the biggest indicator of lyme issues].

Does anyone have Dr Cafferty's contact info?

I got my first tick bite today :(. I guess i need to watch myself. can anyone tell me what to look out for. Yes I will read this whole thread don't worry just wanted some key pointers. I have never had ticks on me before this is a first for me :(

I got my first tick bite today :(. I guess i need to watch myself. can anyone tell me what to look out for. Yes I will read this whole thread don't worry just wanted some key pointers. I have never had ticks on me before this is a first for me :(

First bite ever, or first bite this year? I've pulled at least a half dozen off me in the past 2 months :boo:

First bite ever, or first bite this year? I've pulled at least a half dozen off me in the past 2 months :boo:

:killingme

I say she should go have a port put in ASAP :yay: just in case



:dye: no ticks this year for me :dye: (yet) :yahoo: Im using Frontline spray! :coffee:

First bite ever, or first bite this year? I've pulled at least a half dozen off me in the past 2 months :boo:

first tick bite ever.. I have never been bitten before. all i can tell you is pulling him out of me hurt like a mofo.

:killingme

I say she should go have a port put in ASAP :yay: just in case



:dye: no ticks this year for me :dye: (yet) :yahoo: Im using Frontline spray! :coffee:

I use deet spray on my pants/shoes to reduce the numbers, but I have been in heavily tick infested areas off/on and boy do I not like waking up to find a tick on my back/leg or wherever else they choose to burrow their heads. EWWWWW.

One got me 2 times. I pulled him off and accidentally dropped him on the floor, then sprayed the carpet with insecticide in that area, but that sucker survived and climbed up on my bed and got me again GRRRR. BUT .... in the end he was flushed :yahoo:

I use deet spray on my pants/shoes to reduce the numbers, but I have been in heavily tick infested areas off/on and boy do I not like waking up to find a tick on my back/leg or wherever else they choose to burrow their heads. EWWWWW.

One got me 2 times. I pulled him off and accidentally dropped him on the floor, then sprayed the carpet with insecticide in that area, but that sucker survived and climbed up on my bed and got me again GRRRR. BUT .... in the end he was flushed :yahoo:

email me... I will tell ya what works best!! :popcorn: :coffee:

and Im SURE you have it at the house!! :love:

first tick bite ever.. I have never been bitten before. all i can tell you is pulling him out of me hurt like a mofo.

That you know of

That you know of

i guess your right. i have never seen any on me other than this one and i check myself a few times a day as i am out in the grass with the dog alot throughout the day.

i guess your right. i have never seen any on me other than this one and i check myself a few times a day as i am out in the grass with the dog alot throughout the day.

You wouldn't notice a tick the size of a pen head in your hair :shrug: They are sneaky little ####ers

i guess your right. i have never seen any on me other than this one and i check myself a few times a day as i am out in the grass with the dog alot throughout the day.

The deer ticks can be really tiny and hard to spot and most often can get confused with a mole or freckle unless you feel some irritation around that spot to suspect what it is.

I bet we get bitten many more times than we ever know.

I wonder how they can bite us and we don't even feel it? The one I pulled off my back was hanging on for dear life - ouch that hurt! I pull but not too hard/fast as I want it to LET GO so I don't end up with a tick head embedded in my skin to get infected. I tug and wait a few seconds for it to let go.

The deer ticks can be really tiny and hard to spot and most often can get confused with a mole or freckle unless you feel some irritation around that spot to suspect what it is.

I bet we get bitten many more times than we ever know.

I wonder how they can bite us and we don't even feel it? The one I pulled off my back was hanging on for dear life - ouch that hurt! I pull but not too hard/fast as I want it to LET GO so I don't end up with a tick head embedded in my skin to get infected. I tug and wait a few seconds for it to let go.

:smack:..... why did you have to go there???? :jameo:

:smack:..... why did you have to go there???? :jameo:

I know someone who has an ugly scar from a tick head that was stuck in their leg and it got infected - ewwwww.

the tick i got bit by was pretty big and had a white look like a dot in the middle of its back comes to find out since i didn't have my glasses on it was a diamond as i looked it up online. I am also unlucky like your friend and my tick bite is nice and infected. I already been to one doctor who has no brains so either later today or tomorrow I am off to urgent care to get some oral antibiotics to clear this mess up.

You'd think that I'd be well-versed with Lymes, as I use to work with Dr Cafferty, but it's been a few years. My question is.."Can Lyme's cause symptoms of Sciatic Nerve problems"? Never had a back injury, but within one week of pulling a small Tick from my neck, I had pain shooting from the Butt-Cheek, down my left leg, and it keeps me up at night sometimes. Also wanted to let you know that if you think you might have Lymes, but the test comes back negative, have them check a C 6 Peptide. Make sure you tell the Nurse to look it up, because it needs special handeling, a special tube, and it needs to be frozen, and it is a Lab that doesn't get checked often. Plus, it has to be sent to a different lab, so also check with your Insurance Company to see if they cover it.

Lyme disease is wide spread in St. Mary's County for some reason. St. Mary's County Health Dept. is quite concerned about it. It also causes headaches you otherwise would not have had. Can be a significant disease if not treated.

Does anyone have Dr Cafferty's contact info?

301-737-7885

May 21 WHITE HOUSE PROTEST ** LYME AWARENESS (http://www.mdjunction.com/forums/lyme-disease-support-forums/lyme-disease-activism/2478387-may-21-white-house-protest-lyme-awareness)

Hi folks,

Good discussion here about the later stages of the disease and available resources, and I wish everyone luck treating it.

I've got a few questions about the early stage, though. I've been looking around the web this afternoon, and from what I can tell, if you start a course of antibiotics early (within a few weeks of the tick bite, rash, etc.) the prognosis is good. As in, you can actually get rid of it. For instance, from the American Lyme Disease foundation site: "Early treatment of LD (within the first few weeks after initial infection) is straightforward and almost always results in a full cure. Treatment begun after the first three weeks will also likely provide a cure, but the cure rate decreases the longer treatment is delayed."

Has anybody caught the thing early and come through it with no problem, or know someone who did?

I will be doing more research and consulting with doctors, but I have a little boy who just started antibiotics this afternoon, and I'm hoping for some reassurance. Never saw a tick on him, just a bump and a red rash. From what I'm reading elsewhere, I think he'll be ok, but it's got me scared.

A related question: Can you actually get rid of ticks in your yard? Spray some permethrin, etc. and kill them off like other bugs, or are they too tough for that?

Hi folks,

Good discussion here about the later stages of the disease and available resources, and I wish everyone luck treating it.

I've got a few questions about the early stage, though. I've been looking around the web this afternoon, and from what I can tell, if you start a course of antibiotics early (within a few weeks of the tick bite, rash, etc.) the prognosis is good. As in, you can actually get rid of it. For instance, from the American Lyme Disease foundation site: "Early treatment of LD (within the first few weeks after initial infection) is straightforward and almost always results in a full cure. Treatment begun after the first three weeks will also likely provide a cure, but the cure rate decreases the longer treatment is delayed."

Has anybody caught the thing early and come through it with no problem, or know someone who did?

I will be doing more research and consulting with doctors, but I have a little boy who just started antibiotics this afternoon, and I'm hoping for some reassurance. Never saw a tick on him, just a bump and a red rash. From what I'm reading elsewhere, I think he'll be ok, but it's got me scared.

A related question: Can you actually get rid of ticks in your yard? Spray some permethrin, etc. and kill them off like other bugs, or are they too tough for that?

:howdy: Mine was caught early. I don't know how early but my markers were low. I was giving 2 wks of doxycycline at first. I felt better. Symptoms were gone. 8-9 months later, symptoms were coming back, went back to the doc. He told me I must have been bitten again for the lyme to come back again (What a crock of #### that is! At the time I didn't know much about lyme and trusted this doctor) He gave me 2 more wks of doxy. After the 2 wks still felt like crap, called and told him and he did nothing. I found a new doctor that knows all about lyme and how to treat it. I ended up with a picc line for 5 months and a bunch of herbal supplements but it's been a year and half now that I have been symptom free :diva:

You all know I had Lyme... [have Lyme in Remission]...

Now I know someone who died.... He was 45 years old... construction worker.... the migraines, muscle aches, fibromyalgia got so bad he couldn't work.... he died this weekend.... such a waste.... such a horrible waste...

I say... Kill Bambi!!

Hi folks,

Good discussion here about the later stages of the disease and available resources, and I wish everyone luck treating it.

I've got a few questions about the early stage, though. I've been looking around the web this afternoon, and from what I can tell, if you start a course of antibiotics early (within a few weeks of the tick bite, rash, etc.) the prognosis is good. As in, you can actually get rid of it. For instance, from the American Lyme Disease foundation site: "Early treatment of LD (within the first few weeks after initial infection) is straightforward and almost always results in a full cure. Treatment begun after the first three weeks will also likely provide a cure, but the cure rate decreases the longer treatment is delayed."

Has anybody caught the thing early and come through it with no problem, or know someone who did?

I will be doing more research and consulting with doctors, but I have a little boy who just started antibiotics this afternoon, and I'm hoping for some reassurance. Never saw a tick on him, just a bump and a red rash. From what I'm reading elsewhere, I think he'll be ok, but it's got me scared.

A related question: Can you actually get rid of ticks in your yard? Spray some permethrin, etc. and kill them off like other bugs, or are they too tough for that?

I have a 9 year old boy with Lyme and he has been fighting it for over a year now. Just be watchful and keep in mind that Lyme can cause some crazy symptoms, especially in children. My son started compulsively washing his hands and exhibiting some other OCD like behavior - as soon as he was diagnosed with lyme and started treatment, it stopped. So its not just the standard things you need to look for....

We used Guardian Pest Control for our yard. We had them come out last year and than again this year. They do a spray on the tree line and granules in the yard. It isn't cheap, but with a house full of lymies, the cost was worth it to us and it def makes a difference. It lasts a few months and I haven't seen a tick on kid or dog since they came out in May.

Good luck to you and your son!

Southern Maryland Lyme | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SouthernMarylandLymeDisease)

I was just diagnosed Friday w/ Lyme. I'm on 500mg of Ceftin two times per day and 500mg of Biaxin two times per day.

I had what I thought was a really bad hangover about 2 weeks ago, but it never went away... Went to my Dr. who said I looked ok, it was probably a virus but he took blood. 3 days later the office called to tell me I had to come in.

I felt good on Sunday and Monday, I managed to get all my laundry and un-packing from the weekend done... Decided to call out of work today to take one more day to rest. I slept til after 10 this morning, with a killer headache that will not go away. I haven't felt this bad in over a week.

Will this be normal? To have a good day or two then have bad days?

I don't know anyone with Lyme and I am doing my research slowly, but mostly I'm just too tired to do anything. I have this relentless headache...

I'm not sure what is next after I finish these meds in 26 days. He wants to see me back a month from diagnosis.

Any advice is appreciated.

I was just diagnosed Friday w/ Lyme. I'm on 500mg of Ceftin two times per day and 500mg of Biaxin two times per day.

I had what I thought was a really bad hangover about 2 weeks ago, but it never went away... Went to my Dr. who said I looked ok, it was probably a virus but he took blood. 3 days later the office called to tell me I had to come in.

I felt good on Sunday and Monday, I managed to get all my laundry and un-packing from the weekend done... Decided to call out of work today to take one more day to rest. I slept til after 10 this morning, with a killer headache that will not go away. I haven't felt this bad in over a week.

Will this be normal? To have a good day or two then have bad days?

I don't know anyone with Lyme and I am doing my research slowly, but mostly I'm just too tired to do anything. I have this relentless headache...

I'm not sure what is next after I finish these meds in 26 days. He wants to see me back a month from diagnosis.

Any advice is appreciated.

Yup, you'll definitely have good days, bad days and really bad days. You will feel worse before you start to feel better :huggy:

Yup, you'll definitely have good days, bad days and really bad days. You will feel worse before you start to feel better :huggy:

Thank you... I def. am feeling worse now. The last time I pulled a tick off myself was 5 yrs ago on the back of my knee. I do not have any kind of rash or bullseye. It's probably safe to assume I got Lymes recently. My symptoms progressed very quickly... but who knows. It went from flu-like symptoms and then a few days later I was slurring my words and couldn't have a normal conversation without having to pause to think of what the heck I was trying to say!

Should I be prepared for the PICC line after this first course of treatment? He said I will be re-tested in one month but even if the markers don't show up, it doesn't mean it's gone. I'm trying to keep the calls to his office at a minimum :)

Thank you... I def. am feeling worse now. The last time I pulled a tick off myself was 5 yrs ago on the back of my knee. I do not have any kind of rash or bullseye. It's probably safe to assume I got Lymes recently. My symptoms progressed very quickly... but who knows. It went from flu-like symptoms and then a few days later I was slurring my words and couldn't have a normal conversation without having to pause to think of what the heck I was trying to say!

Should I be prepared for the PICC line after this first course of treatment? He said I will be re-tested in one month but even if the markers don't show up, it doesn't mean it's gone. I'm trying to keep the calls to his office at a minimum :)

Oh I'm very sorry to hear that you're sick, Nicole. I hope you will start feeling better. My friend "Shygirl" on this forum have lyme disease. You can send her a PM, and I'm sure she will be happy to help you.

Thank you... I def. am feeling worse now. The last time I pulled a tick off myself was 5 yrs ago on the back of my knee. I do not have any kind of rash or bullseye. It's probably safe to assume I got Lymes recently. My symptoms progressed very quickly... but who knows. It went from flu-like symptoms and then a few days later I was slurring my words and couldn't have a normal conversation without having to pause to think of what the heck I was trying to say!

Should I be prepared for the PICC line after this first course of treatment? He said I will be re-tested in one month but even if the markers don't show up, it doesn't mean it's gone. I'm trying to keep the calls to his office at a minimum :)

I had lyme and some of your symptoms - including the horrible headaches and the slurred speech. I also had vertigo, and bells palsy. Lyme is horrible and it can really knock you on your butt. I remember constantly thinking that I needed to "push through it" because as bad a day as I was having, I knew that tomorrow could very likely be worse. Sorry I can't be more encouraging but it really is a butt-kicker, especially if you have had it for awhile. I ended up with a port and did several months of IV antibiotics. On a side note, of the 4 people in my house who have lyme, I am the only one who managed to be symptom free for a long period of time and the only one (so far) who did the IV antibiotics. So it does work. It was also, much more expensive that I anticipated and we have excellent health insurance. But when you get to the point where you cannot function, get out of bed, or speak... its worth it.

Post any questions you have here...someone will answer them as best they can. Tons of Southern Marylanders with lyme. I also have a facebook page for lyme if your interested:

Southern Maryland Lyme | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SouthernMarylandLymeDisease)

Good luck to you!

Your next course will depend on how you feel.

You may be feeling worse due to a herxheimer reaction. The antibiotic is causing large amounts of toxins to be released into your body. The toxins can't be flushed out of your system fast enough and you feel bad. Drink a LOT of water and take warm baths of epsom salt or kosher salt. The salt water draws the toxins out of your body.

The strength of the med Ceftin can give you a stomach ulcer. Consider taking Prilosec. (Recommendation of doctor UK Shah)

You may want to supplement with acidophilus or eat yogurt. The antibiotic might cause an overgrowth of yeast. If those do not work, maybe a prescription for Diflucan.

"Alternative" meds to checkout are Grapeseed Extract, Cat's Claw, Teasel and Wormwood Herb.

I was just diagnosed Friday w/ Lyme. I'm on 500mg of Ceftin two times per day and 500mg of Biaxin two times per day.

I had what I thought was a really bad hangover about 2 weeks ago, but it never went away... Went to my Dr. who said I looked ok, it was probably a virus but he took blood. 3 days later the office called to tell me I had to come in.

I felt good on Sunday and Monday, I managed to get all my laundry and un-packing from the weekend done... Decided to call out of work today to take one more day to rest. I slept til after 10 this morning, with a killer headache that will not go away. I haven't felt this bad in over a week.

Will this be normal? To have a good day or two then have bad days?

I don't know anyone with Lyme and I am doing my research slowly, but mostly I'm just too tired to do anything. I have this relentless headache...

I'm not sure what is next after I finish these meds in 26 days. He wants to see me back a month from diagnosis.

Any advice is appreciated.

There is a lot of information out there (http://www.mdjunction.com/lyme-disease) The link I am giving you was very helpful for me. Quite frankly... when the exhaustion is as bad as it can get... it's easier to get on a computer than it is to go to a meeting.

Yes.. it could get worse... it could also get better.... I had the headache... spots in front of my eyes... blurry watery vision... phantom pains... aching joints... my face drooped sometimes.... everything was temporary so it was hard for me to show my doctor the symptoms....

Another problem people with Lyme have is the loss of short term memory... I got to a point where I couldn't finish a sentence.... multi-tasking.... impossible... single tasking was more like the chore....

Weight gain... yep.....

Hey you could be lucky tho.... I had Lyme for a very long time before it was diagnosed by a Doctor who knows Lyme... He saved my life.... my nephew was not so lucky... he died last weekend....

:coffee:

The Veterinarian that I take my dogs to told me that ticks are really bad this year. She has heard a lot of people being diagnosed with Lyme Disease.

My eye doctor told me to watch for signs similar to pink eye (for people with Lyme). He told me to come in ASAP if I started to experience itchy eyes that hurt really bad. It progresses extremely rapidly and is a serious condition.

Thank you all so much for the replies.. I slept 90% of the day yesterday. About 1 this morning I was awoken by this terrible lower back pain, both sides... I've got a call in to my doctors nurse. I ONLY drink water [and an occasional glass of orange juice] so I can't imagine I'd have kidney issues but I guess you never know.

I still have this headache, going on 24 straight hours with it.

ShyGirl - My Dr. put me on probiotics the same day I started my antibiotics.

Please understand.... it's not just deer ticks that carry terrible disease.... dog ticks also carry them... ticks on bunnies, raccoons, birds... any tick should be taken seriously.....

Be careful to check the good hiding places too.... hair, behind the knees... under arms... in creases and crevices .... every single inch of the body...

I'm not sure if ticks are worse or if awareness is higher.... but be aware... wear light colored clothing... and check for ticks... often...

:coffee:

Thank you all so much for the replies.. I slept 90% of the day yesterday. About 1 this morning I was awoken by this terrible lower back pain, both sides... I've got a call in to my doctors nurse. I ONLY drink water [and an occasional glass of orange juice] so I can't imagine I'd have kidney issues but I guess you never know.

I still have this headache, going on 24 straight hours with it.

ShyGirl - My Dr. put me on probiotics the same day I started my antibiotics.

You are taking a crap load of antibiotics and meds, you may be having kidney issues. I had blood work done weekly testing my kidney and liver functions when I was being treated.

And someone else mentioned, Cat's claw. That is amazing stuff. When I started taking that was when I started to actually feel better and actually had energy :yay:

There is a great documentary out there on lyme disease called "Under our skin". A must watch for anyone with lyme disease. Google it, there are several places you can watch it for free on line.

There is a great documentary out there on lyme disease called "Under our skin". A must watch for anyone with lyme disease. Google it, there are several places you can watch it for free on line.

I believe PBS has also started airing it. Check your local listings....

:howdy:

I went for my 30 day "check up" today. Within the past 30 days, the nausea, light headed-ness, sweats, constant headaches, dizziness and other similar symptoms have faded. I still get an occasional headache but who doesn't :)

What hasn't improved are my forgetfullness, confusion, loss of memory etc...

To be honest, I told him it's hard for me to say whether it has improved or not because I have been this way for the past 9 yrs or so. I just learned to live with it and assumed it was just "me".

I will still be taking the Ceftin and Biaxin, but he has also added Flagyl and Nystatin on top of it. As well as the probiotics.

He wants to see me in another month and go from there. I have a couple NEW symptoms as well. My right ankle was really bothering me Wed, Thurs and Fri. Woke up Sat and it was gone. Also, my vision, which was NEVER blurry before, has now become. Even the clock on my stove, I have to let my eyes focus before it comes into view. I asked if it was age and he said not possible. When I get into my 40's, maybe I could blame it on age.

So now I can do a load of laundry without needing a 2 hr. nap but I still can't remember jack and go through all of my kids names before I find the right one :) Not funny, but you have to make light of it. I feel 100% better just because of the fact that I can get out of bed and be productive.

:howdy:

I went for my 30 day "check up" today. Within the past 30 days, the nausea, light headed-ness, sweats, constant headaches, dizziness and other similar symptoms have faded. I still get an occasional headache but who doesn't :)

What hasn't improved are my forgetfullness, confusion, loss of memory etc...

To be honest, I told him it's hard for me to say whether it has improved or not because I have been this way for the past 9 yrs or so. I just learned to live with it and assumed it was just "me".

I will still be taking the Ceftin and Biaxin, but he has also added Flagyl and Nystatin on top of it. As well as the probiotics.

He wants to see me in another month and go from there. I have a couple NEW symptoms as well. My right ankle was really bothering me Wed, Thurs and Fri. Woke up Sat and it was gone. Also, my vision, which was NEVER blurry before, has now become. Even the clock on my stove, I have to let my eyes focus before it comes into view. I asked if it was age and he said not possible. When I get into my 40's, maybe I could blame it on age.

So now I can do a load of laundry without needing a 2 hr. nap but I still can't remember jack and go through all of my kids names before I find the right one :) Not funny, but you have to make light of it. I feel 100% better just because of the fact that I can get out of bed and be productive.

Yep that's how it is... symptoms come and they go.... and you "forget" to tell the doc everything because you have the short term memory loss....

I'm praying for you....

:coffee:

The show Under Our Skin is currently on channel 19 on comast...

bump

"WASHINGTON - Ticks are most well-known for spreading lyme disease, but there are other tick-borne diseases to worry about in the D.C. area.

There have been 11 case of Rocky Mountain Fever reported so far this year in Fairfax County, and another four in Prince William County, David Gaines, the public health entomologist for Virginia tells InsideNova.com. A case of the disease has also been reported in Maryland. "

Ticks spread more than just lyme disease - WTOP.com (http://wtop.com/?nid=41&sid=2506413)

Wirelessly posted

"WASHINGTON - Ticks are most well-known for spreading lyme disease, but there are other tick-borne diseases to worry about in the D.C. area.

There have been 11 case of Rocky Mountain Fever reported so far this year in Fairfax County, and another four in Prince William County, David Gaines, the public health entomologist for Virginia tells InsideNova.com. A case of the disease has also been reported in Maryland. "

Ticks spread more than just lyme disease - WTOP.com (http://wtop.com/?nid=41&sid=2506413)

That case of Rocky Mountain Fever was reported in St. Mary's county just so everyone knows.

I had rocky mountain spotted fever last year. I would have NEVER guessed if my doc hadn't thought to do a quick test for tick bornes. I went in for sore throat, fatigue, nasty sickness I couldn't shake. I knew it wasn't strep (ive had that about a bajillion times) but when in for a culture just to be sure. it was neg and the tick borne came back positive for rocky mountain. I had a course of antibiotics and all better. I had a very small rash (on my arms) a few weeks before..but didn't think anything of it because I have sensitive skin and react to a lot of things.

I had rocky mountain spotted fever last year. I would have NEVER guessed if my doc hadn't thought to do a quick test for tick bornes. I went in for sore throat, fatigue, nasty sickness I couldn't shake. I knew it wasn't strep (ive had that about a bajillion times) but when in for a culture just to be sure. it was neg and the tick borne came back positive for rocky mountain. I had a course of antibiotics and all better. I had a very small rash (on my arms) a few weeks before..but didn't think anything of it because I have sensitive skin and react to a lot of things.

I tested positive for RMSF and for lyme...... Usually if you have one.. you will have the other..... the travel with "friends"

I tested positive for RMSF and for lyme...... Usually if you have one.. you will have the other..... the travel with "friends"

:smack: don't give me something to worry over. :lmao:

:smack: don't give me something to worry over. :lmao:

sorry... but it is something to worry about!

..... Im dealing with it right now.. :sad:

those little effers are hard to find.. and treat!

sorry... but it is something to worry about!

..... Im dealing with it right now.. :sad:

those little effers are hard to find.. and treat!

I know they tested for both at the time, but I also remeber from reading people's stories that the test they usually do doesn't always pick it up.

I hope you feel better! I felt like shiat just from the spotted fever

I know they tested for both at the time, but I also remeber from reading people's stories that the test they usually do doesn't always pick it up.

I hope you feel better! I felt like shiat just from the spotted fever

:yay:

you could test pos one day and neg. the next :cds:

The Veterinarian that I take my dogs to told me that ticks are really bad this year. She has heard a lot of people being diagnosed with Lyme Disease.

My eye doctor told me to watch for signs similar to pink eye (for people with Lyme). He told me to come in ASAP if I started to experience itchy eyes that hurt really bad. It progresses extremely rapidly and is a serious condition.

oh my goodness I have had sore painful eyes for months especially at night went to doctors who said it was allergies. I am feeling really scared right now as I even feel my mind is affected-feel really really down and have a very sore mouth-why doctor tested for it .Not even seen my doctor yetjust got results from a nurse today.

oh my goodness I have had sore painful eyes for months especially at night went to doctors who said it was allergies. I am feeling really scared right now as I even feel my mind is affected-feel really really down and have a very sore mouth-why doctor tested for it .Not even seen my doctor yetjust got results from a nurse today.

Hello Frozenrain. So sorry to hear you have lyme and that it took so long to catch it. Unfortunately, that is often the case with lyme disease. I was sick for nearly 2 years and saw about 15 Drs before finally being diagnosed. The good news is you now know what was causing all those symptoms. It is scary, as lyme can be a devastating disease, but there are lots of folks on the forums who have lyme and they can be very supportive and provide a lot of useful information. Feel free to send me a PM if there is anything you have questions about. Im not a lyme expert, but my children and I have all tested positive for lyme so we've been through this many times. Also, if you use Facebook, I have a Facebook page for Southern Maryland Lyme information (Southern Maryland Lyme | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SouthernMarylandLymeDisease)). Good luck to you!

Hello Frozenrain. So sorry to hear you have lyme and that it took so long to catch it. Unfortunately, that is often the case with lyme disease. I was sick for nearly 2 years and saw about 15 Drs before finally being diagnosed. The good news is you now know what was causing all those symptoms. It is scary, as lyme can be a devastating disease, but there are lots of folks on the forums who have lyme and they can be very supportive and provide a lot of useful information. Feel free to send me a PM if there is anything you have questions about. Im not a lyme expert, but my children and I have all tested positive for lyme so we've been through this many times. Also, if you use Facebook, I have a Facebook page for Southern Maryland Lyme information (Southern Maryland Lyme | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SouthernMarylandLymeDisease)). Good luck to you!

Thanks for your reply.Thank you for all the hard work you have been doing!!! I just 'liked 'your Southern maryland page.
I looked at the check list for this disease and I had so many of the symptoms-unbelievable!
I hope you and your family are doing O.K now.I wish I lived nearer so I could go to the support group but I am in Frederick now.
Thank you again!!

What is most scaring me now is reading how many people believe a short course of antibiotics does not work.I think having late stage symptoms in such a way as I do makes me worry that it will not eradicate the bacteria fully. Maybe I need to search for a specialist as my kaiser Md is probably going to believe that a short course kills all the bacteria.

What is most scaring me now is reading how many people believe a short course of antibiotics does not work.I think having late stage symptoms in such a way as I do makes me worry that it will not eradicate the bacteria fully. Maybe I need to search for a specialist as my kaiser Md is probably going to believe that a short course kills all the bacteria.

Try to find a doctor that will do an aggressive treatment.

My first doctor just gave me the 2 weeks of antibiotics and I was sent on my way. At the time, I knew nothing about lyme. 2 weeks on the antibiotics and I did feel better (mine was caught early :knockonwood:) but 6 wks later, the symptoms came back. Back to the doc I went. He told me he did not feel it was lyme again and I must have been bitten by another tick to be infected again. :dork: 2 more weeks of antibiotics and I still felt like crap. The doctor didn’t want to do anything else for me. I found a another doctor, and my first visit to him, before he did any blood work, I had an appointment set up to get my PICC line put in. 5 months of IV and oral antibiotics. That was 2 years ago and I’m still symptom free :smile:

Try to find a doctor that will do an aggressive treatment.

My first doctor just gave me the 2 weeks of antibiotics and I was sent on my way. At the time, I knew nothing about lyme. 2 weeks on the antibiotics and I did feel better (mine was caught early :knockonwood:) but 6 wks later, the symptoms came back. Back to the doc I went. He told me he did not feel it was lyme again and I must have been bitten by another tick to be infected again. :dork: 2 more weeks of antibiotics and I still felt like crap. The doctor didn’t want to do anything else for me. I found a another doctor, and my first visit to him, before he did any blood work, I had an appointment set up to get my PICC line put in. 5 months of IV and oral antibiotics. That was 2 years ago and I’m still symptom free :smile:

yes this is what I keep reading over and over again.All I have been given is 3 weeks worth of 500mg 3x a day antibiotics. Seems a bit too good to be true to eradicate a bacteria that has been in me for over 2 and a half years.
I am so glad you found a good doctor.If you do not mind me asking was it costly because I know kaiser are not going to find me one!
I am glad you are symptom free as I type I have those creeepy crawly feelings around my mouth .
Thanks for replying and glad you got well!

yes this is what I keep reading over and over again.All I have been given is 3 weeks worth of 500mg 3x a day antibiotics. Seems a bit too good to be true to eradicate a bacteria that has been in me for over 2 and a half years.
I am so glad you found a good doctor.If you do not mind me asking was it costly because I know kaiser are not going to find me one!
I am glad you are symptom free as I type I have those creeepy crawly feelings around my mouth .
Thanks for replying and glad you got well!

What type of antibiotic did your Dr give you? If you have had it for 2 years, 3 weeks is not going to do it. Some say that once you have chronic lyme, you will never truly get rid of it. You said your were in Frederick? I have a list of lyme literate Drs - Ill look and see if I can find someone near you. Many do not take insurance, but a rare few do. You can prob get quite a few recommendations from folks on the forum, as many just lost their local lyme dr and have been searching for a new one. As for the picc line, which I also had, that varies by insurance. I have Blue Cross Blue Shield and while they covered a portion of it, it still cost me thousands of dollars to do 6 months of IV. :-( But I have been relatively symptom free for almost 2 years. I had facial paralysis too (Bells Palsy) and my face is completely normal now. Except for a slightly crooked smile, which I hope adds character. :-)

What type of antibiotic did your Dr give you? If you have had it for 2 years, 3 weeks is not going to do it. Some say that once you have chronic lyme, you will never truly get rid of it. You said your were in Frederick? I have a list of lyme literate Drs - Ill look and see if I can find someone near you. Many do not take insurance, but a rare few do. You can prob get quite a few recommendations from folks on the forum, as many just lost their local lyme dr and have been searching for a new one. As for the picc line, which I also had, that varies by insurance. I have Blue Cross Blue Shield and while they covered a portion of it, it still cost me thousands of dollars to do 6 months of IV. :-( But I have been relatively symptom free for almost 2 years. I had facial paralysis too (Bells Palsy) and my face is completely normal now. Except for a slightly crooked smile, which I hope adds character. :-)
It is frightening all these stories.One lady ended up in a wheel chair and even after treating her with antibiotics they found Lyme bacteria swimming in her spinal fluid. I just do not know what to believe. I am glad you got your insurance to pay a little but sorry you had to pay thousands for treatment.It is disgusting how many people say that they were still ill after antibiotics and yet nothing is done about the guidelines.I read that 48% of doctors were undecided if chronic lyme disease existed.So nearly half all regular doctors are saying that a short treatment may not help!!!!! THEY DO NOT KNOW!! In the mean time there are many people out there suffering who may not be able to afford to see a specialist.
I am not being funny but I did notice many people in wheel chairs when I lived in Southern Maryland-it does make you wonder being in an endemic area that many people are not being diagnosed.If it had not been the urgent care doctor my internal medicine doctor would have done auto-immune tests and that would have been it and dismissed it to allergies,stress hormones etc.
I would appreciate it if you could see if there was a doctor near Frederick Md.
I am glad that you are mostly feeling better now and I am sure your mouth does add character :)
Thank you for helping!! Oh I am on amoxicillin.

NPR Diane has a Lyme show on:

The Diane Rehm Show from WAMU and NPR (http://thedianerehmshow.org/)