This section is dedicated to the science of Lyme disease. Below we’ll break down how Lyme behaves in the blood, and the problems surrounding testing for the disease. IMPORTANT: LLMD’s focus on symptomology because testing is heavily flawed! While a few positive bands are wonderful for peace-of-mind, research and insurance purposes, they are not necessary! Medical and FDA disclaimers below.
This section was developed after a conversation with a former cell biologist that also suffers from Lyme and EDS. In addition, she is currently working towards fluency in Live Phase Contrast Microscopy (a different way to search for Lyme, more below.)
Contents:
4 Forms of Lyme, as seen in the blood.
Testing; Why can’t we get a positive test at the beginning?
Testing: Why can’t we get a positive test later-on during late-stage Lyme?
Current Testing Protocol
A Better test
4 Forms of Spirochetal (Lyme) Disease, as seen in the blood:
- Spirochetal Form: cork screw looking critters. responsible for the initial spread of Lyme, capable of spreading into tissue and bone, can easily slip into cyst form.
- Cyst Form: survival mode, dormant form, not mobile, not causing symptoms, hiding for more favorable conditions.
- Cell Wall Deficient Form: hides inside cells, incredibly difficult to detect, lack of cell wall makes targeting by immune system and antibiotics more difficult. Capable of intracellular infection.
- Biofilms Form: a film or colony forms around the lyme, antibiotics can not get in, Biofilm in-penetrable without a “biofilm buster” Biofilm busters are only known to help, not eradicate. Check Lyme- Supplements for a list of known biofilm busters.
Youtube video; takes you through the phases of Lyme in the blood. Super Interesting!:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OaPWZBW36Q&t=1s
More on the forms of Lyme:
http://www.ppt-health.com/lyme-disease-basics/treatment-challenges-for-lyme-disease/
More on the forms of Lyme:
http://www.lymebook.com/top10forms
Books: (Lots of science in the Horowitz books. Very Thorough, but not difficult to follow.)
Horowitz, Richard MD. Why Can’t I Get Better? Solving The Mystery Of Lyme and Chromic Disease. New York: St. Martin’s Pres, 2013. Print.
http://www.cangetbetter.com/
Horowitz, Richard MD. How Can I Get Better?: An Action Plan for Treating Resistant Lyme and Chronic Disease. New York: St. Martin’s Griffin, October 25, 2016. Print.
http://www.cangetbetter.com/
Testing: Why can’t we get a positive test at the beginning?:
The usual tests are looking for antibodies. It takes 4-6 weeks for the immune system to kick in. Therefore the antibodies will not be there until that time. This is why doctor’s will often recommend testing at 4-6 weeks.
Note: Keep the tick if you can. They can successfully test the tick.
Note: If ANY sort of rash is detected, (the bulls-eye rash is not definitive) it is becoming common practice to administer 4-6 weeks of Doxy.
Note: Tick removal, DO NOT ADD ANYTHING to your skin. This can cause the tick to regurgitate; infecting you. Pull the tick firmly, without squeezing, until it releases. You might have to hold it for a good 30 sec.
Testing: Why can’t we get a positive test later-on during late-stage Lyme?:
Again, no antibodies at this time. Why? Because of the late-stage of the disease our immuno-suppression kicks in therefore no antibodies are present to find.
Current Testing Protocol:
Current Stats: The Western Blot is only 35-40% accurate at best! Slightly better news, our LLMD’s (Lyme Literate Doctors) seem to prefer more thorough tests like those preformed by IGNEX, Frylabs, and Galaxy. These tests are currently getting somewhat more accurate results. Their stats are are preforming at 65-70% accuracy.
How to decipher Igenex results:
http://www.stopthelymelies.com/lyme-disease-101/how-to-decipher-igenex-results
TH1 and TH2 immune system response:
A long illness can create TH2 dominance. TH1 and TH2 should be working together. This can become the reason we do not “present sick.” It’s a immune deficiency developed over a long illness. Check out the link below for more information.
https://www.diagnose-me.com/symptoms-of/immune-system-imbalance-TH2-dominance.php
A Better Test:
Live Blood Microscopy.
It’s used so infrequently that there are no stats on this yet. Anecdotal evidence is really good so far.
Someone certified in live blood microscopy uses a phase contrast microscope to search for the forms of Lyme as described above in the “4 forms of Lyme.” This test would not be error proof. This is because of Lyme’s ability to hide, however the live blood is searched for the forms of Lyme itself, which should/could achieve better testing results. This form of testing DOES NOT just include Lyme, but MANY OF THE CO-INFECTIONS AS WELL!
(We are currently researching a list into the people that do live blood microscopy. We suggest you ask your LLMD about it. They may have a live-blood lab they are working with. These people might like to retain their small bit of anonymity for now because of the politics around Lyme. These problems include things like insurance, liability and other issues. This subject may remain closeted until more research and testing is procured.)
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Medical Disclaimer:
Common Sense dictates that the following is now added: Please note that recommended reading and its practicum, product information, physical therapies, and any and all advice presented in this collection is intended for the convenience of the reader. For advice on medical issues you should always consult your local medical practitioner.
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The products and their practicum shown on this website or discussed in our communications have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Those seeking treatment for a specific disease should consult a qualified physician.