Mr. Herxheimer

I thought I'd write this post while I was actually "herxing". For the Lymies out there you know that it probably will take me 2, maybe 3 hours to write this! 

As I mentioned yesterday, I'm back on IV antibiotics as well as oral antibiotics. I'm on for two weeks, off for one then back on for 2 weeks, off for one. This method is called pulsing. When I start on a-bombs (antibiotics) someone else always comes along, Mr. Herxheimer. 

Meeting Mr. Herxheimer

Lyme disease has more crazy, painful symptoms than this post has time for explaining. Once the antibiotics start to kill the bacteria in the body, Mr. Herxheimer makes his entrance. Here's how he works. "Herxing is believed to occur when injured or dead bacteria release their endotoxins into the blood and tissues faster than the body can comfortably handle it. This provokes a sudden and exaggerated inflammatory response." (Chronic Illness Recovery Education) So basically all the crazy, painful symptoms that you previously had are intensified for a while because the toxins have nothing to do and nowhere to go so they take it out on you! Here's a pic of when I came out of a routine herxing episode: 

Thankful for a bed and my chevron :)

No one sees these moments but my family and some friends, and now you. I share this because I want people to know about chronic Lyme issues and I want to encourage other Lyme sufferers that they're not alone in the battle. 

"I lift my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." This is a verse that has helped me get up after being curled up in a ball of pain from herxing. There is hope! 

*Robin* 

Traveling with Lyme Disease 101

As most  Lyme patients know, traveling is extremely difficult. You have the meds, accessories (wheelchair, cane, shower sleeve, etc.), the frustration of having to ask everyone to help you with just about everything. Then, once you reach your destination you're wiped out and just wanna stay inside. If you decide to travel, here are a few tips:

-Try to plan your vacations on your off weeks of antibiotics...if you are on that schedule
-Get as much rest before the trip as you can
-Let people help you! (So hard to do. But don't steal their opportunity to show love to you)
-Start the packing process a few days before you leave
-Avoid traveling long distances if possible
-Avoid traveling to primitive locations. Let's not catch another disease!
-Simplify your outfits and bring plenty of comfy clothes
-Take as many pictures as you can! The good memories are few and far between during Lyme treatment so savor the good ones...even if you're in pain

I'm speaking as a young married woman with no kids so I'm sure they're are more things to remember when traveling with kids. Please share your insight about how you plan your travels with Lyme and children! 

Our Weekend Getaway

Ken (my amazing hubby) and I are blessed to live 5 minutes away from my parents. So when they're gone we take off for a vacation....to Mom and Dad's :) We love taking care of their/dog, Snickers! It's nice to have a change of scenery and to create in Mom's stampin studio! 

View from our resort

Started back on antibiotics this week. That involves 3 oral antibiotics 2 times a day plus 3 IV bags on most days. This treatment puts tremendous strain on the body. When I'm in the heat of it I often think about the other Lymies suffering and the loneliness they're feeling too. More on Lyme education later. Until next time! 

*Robin*