A twenty-three year old male naturopathic patient first became ill when he was eleven years old. He was very sick and suffered from a complex set of symptoms including:
- Palpitations
- Weakness
- Pain
- Depression
- Fainting
- Difficulty gaining weight
- Numbness/tingling
- Confusion
- Chemical sensitivity
- Heat intolerance
- Headaches
“I don’t remember the 11th year of my life. From what others tell me I was very sick with something that looked like a simple flu. I experienced constant fatigue and pain, especially in my major joints and legs.” The naturopathic patient had received naturopathic care in the past including chelation therapy, IV nutrients and food allergy testing. These naturopathic treatments improved symptoms but never brought him to full health. He was unable to work and the activities of daily living were extremely limited. Although the naturopathic patient does not recall being bit by a tick, he used to hunt with his grandfather during the time he first became ill. The patient was underweight for his height and he had great difficulty increasing his muscle mass.
“In a moment I now refer to as the Febreze Incident, I inhaled some Febreze that had drifted to where I was on the couch. I tried to vacate the area because the fumes made me feel nauseous but I found I could not move from the neck down. Eventually I was able to stand, but after several steps I fell flat on my face. That was the beginning of the truly debilitating phase of my illness. Most distressing of all was what happened to my mind. It just didn’t work anymore. I could barely remember how to spell my own name.”
The patient was tested by a clinic Naturopathic Doctor for Lyme disease and co-infections and he was positive for both Lyme disease and Bartonella. Further naturopathic testing was done to evaluate his hormones, organ health and inflammation to determine the proper support required for this complex disease that affects many systems throughout the body. It was found that he had adrenal fatigue and low levels of protein. The patient started a rigorous naturopathic treatment plan beginning with oral supplementation to support his immune system and adrenal glands. These systems can become stressed when killing the infection. This included a variety of naturopathic herbs and vitamins that were specific for their requirements. Naturopathic IV therapies including nutrients were used to support the immune system further and help to treat the infection. Upon recommendation of our Naturopathic Doctor, hyperbaric oxygen therapy was commenced at the same time the patient started antibiotics (prescribed by their medical doctor) for both Lyme disease and Bartonella. The patient completed 60 treatments to help heal the neurological and inflammatory issues.
“Tailor-made treatment started right away, and now, about seven months later I am doing noticeably better.”
Within months the naturopathic patient reported a 60-70% improvement in symptoms. He felt better than he had at any point from when they first became ill. He was able to concentrate and do basic things like attending family gatherings and help around the house. The numbness and palpitations went away and he had a significant increase in physical stamina. He was able to start creative activities such as writing. Something he had not had the energy or cognitive ability to do in the past.
“My mind seems to be getting clearer every week now. As a result I’ve been able to start writing in earnest, and I’ve been trying out the one thing I’ve always wanted to do: living.”
The patient continued naturopathic treatment and intravenous treatments was added to his naturopathic treatment plan. The patient noticed an immediate improvement in mental clarity and decreased confusion. Bloodwork was done throughout treatment to ensure that his organs and immune system were healthy and strong, that his hormones were balanced, and that he had adequate levels of vitamins and minerals. The naturopathic patient continued to improve and was able to take on more daily activities. At that time his heavy metal load was re-evaluated and further in office treatments were suggested to heal what had been damaged from the original infection. The patient is able to begin part-time work.
