Lymes and Arthritis - Lyme Disease Message Board

Faithwithoutfear · 10-13-2003, 08:54 PM

Looking for anyone who has had arthritis symptoms with Lyme's.
I tested postive for Lyme's in Sept. and was treated for 3 weeks with doxy. A few days after finishing, I started low fevers again. After a week of them, I returned to the dr. and they presume that I still have Lyme's and are now treating me for 3 months on doxy., twice a day, 100mg. In the last few days I have noticed swelling in one of my ankles (no injury) and pain, also swelling in my hand and back pain. I talked with a dr. who has told me that these symptoms should subside with the treatment. Just wondering if anyone else has had any of these complications. I did also get Bell's Palsy from Lyme's, which is the reason they finally figured out what I had. Please if anyone has any advice or suggestions, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks

alabamalymie · 10-14-2003, 09:14 AM

Faith,
I was attacked by arthritis almost two years ago. Last year my legs and ankles started swelling really bad. I am now on doxy 100mg twice a day. My severe joint pain has gone, I still have swelling in my left ankle. I have had to times when i felt cured and tohose were on other antibotics. I'm now trying to find a Dr. who will give me stronger antibiotics or the IV stuff. You are the first one I have read who had the swelling. I have another symptom which I have not seen. My heels crack open and are very painful.
Hope you are feeling better
ala

Faithwithoutfear · 10-16-2003, 06:08 PM

Ala,
Thanks for the reply. Just wondering how long they are going to have you take the doxy for? I am also in the process of looking for another dr who is lyme literate. From the information I have read, it does not seem they are being as aggresive as they should. I have not had noticed any problems with my heels. I wish you luck and please keep me posted on your condition.
Faith

alabamalymie · 10-17-2003, 07:40 AM

Faith,
My rheumatologist will leave me on doxy indefinately. He doesn't think I have lyme, but says that doxy also helps rheumatoid which he thinks I have but that test is negative also. Next Wed. I go to an infectious disease Dr. He is supposed to be very good so we'll see.

ticker · 10-17-2003, 08:17 AM

Faithwithoutfear, 200 mg of Doxy daily is not strong enough for Lyme. I believe the recommended dose is 300-600 mg daily. It very important to get proper treatment. Were you tested for the co-infections that ticks can carry--Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis HME & HGE, and Bartonella?

Often people who have Lyme experience a worsening of symptoms or new symptoms during treatment. The antibiotics are killing the bacteria which releases toxins, making you feel worse. This is known as a Jarisch-Herxheimer Reaction or herx. It can be scary when it happens, but it is a sign the antibiotics are working.

It is very important to see a knowledgable doctor. Getting the proper treatment early in the infection may reduce the chance of long-term complications. What state are you located in?

[This message has been edited by ticker (edited 10-17-2003).]