MS vs LYME

[LymeLight]

Hi, I just wanted to ask you if you were ever tested for Lyme Disease. I have had all of the symptoms you've had, with a few more. At first thought to be MS (positive for lesions on brain and brainstem)--My tap was negative for bands so neuro says I don't have MS. You see i tested positive for Lyme disease. 4 times they tested me. I just finished 4 full months of oral antibiotics then the 8 week period for IV antibiotic treatment thru pic line. Pic line removed yesterday. I feel like a new person. Numbness is gone. I still have joint pain and will because usually the damage is done. I take flexaril to help ease my joint pain. But no more drooping eyelid, no more tingling and numbness in strange areas such as face, upper torso, arm, toes, etc. I am not as weak now, definitely more energetic and more back to the old me. I have a strange ear ringing that started the week of Christmas in 07 but is considered part of the lyme infection. I do believe it may never go away. I also have positive ANA. My lyme test were Western Blots and I assure you, I know I may never be 100% well again, but I am significantly better with treatment for Lyme Disease. I've been told by many that I should be taking my lesions more seriously and practically that I should be getting a new neuro because most think the lesions indicate MS, but I firmly believe the lesions are result of Lyme and obviously my neuro feels the same. I do have demyelination going on but it must not be too serious. IF YOU HAVEN'T BEEN CHECKED FOR LYME. PLEASE DO. MY INSURANCE HAS TAKEN GREAT CARE OF ME AND PAYING FOR THE TEST/TREATMENT. I live in MS and it is rare to get it here. Take care and hope you get answers soon.
Lisa
ANYONE WITH ANY INPUT, PLEASE SHARE


This discussion is related to Cervical spine question   MS.

[patsy10]

Bump for others to read.

[LymeLight]

Thanks Patsy. I think I do have a pretty good set of doctors. With lyme, I have (had) a neuro, a neurosurgeon, a cardiologist and my awesome infectious disease doc. I must give a big shout out to anyone suffering with Lyme disease or symptoms of it. YOU CAN FEEL BETTER. I got my pic line out 2 days ago but started seeing results after 4 weeks. I just feel so much better overall. Thanks for all the thoughts/prayers that many of you sent my way. WE have all disputed if MS is lyme and if lyme is part of MS. It will still be a great debate in my life as I progress. I will have a watchful eye on the lesions- I will insist.  Also, in either case I know what to be aware of and look for (but I believe the symptoms will just slap ya in the face). I have had all the symptoms of both for over a year. It's been CRAZY. But on this day, I AM HAPPY. Have a great day to you all and if anyone ever wants to get in touch with me and share experiences/thoughts regarding lyme/ms? or ms/lyme? I am always here and reading comments as well. Off to work I go now. God Bless!
Lisa in MS

[patsy10]

Good post for the many people suffering.  I think I responded to your other post before.  I agree.  In my opinion, the lesions are from lyme.  You sound like you have a great doctor.  Just watch for symptoms to return.  It's hard to completely rid the body of lyme.