Health update

As with all autoimmune issues, this is definitely a case of chicken and egg when it comes to which came first. There may have been no secondary virus at all as all of your symptoms related to your most recent illness could easily be attributed to a reactivation of the Epstein Barr virus (sore throat, headaches, fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, fatigue, etc.). A Lyme flare up or a period of excessive stress leading to depressed immune function and some bad luck is all you really need for a reactivation. But there is another possibility as to what could have prompted it: lupus. (No idea if you’ve been tested). You were out in the sun a bunch not too long ago on your trip and lupus is well known for systemic flare ups caused by photosensitivity. (You would likely, but not necessarily, have seen some kind of rash which would be a good clue if Lupus is involved – this would be something your doctor would need to know). In all likelihood your issues progressed roughly like this: Lyme disease, prolonged stress and excessive antibiotic treatment for Lyme disease wreaks havoc on the microbiome which brings on SIBO, SIBO causes immune system dysregulation (and whatever form of autoimmune disease comes along with that – there definitely is one), depressed immune system allows the Epstein Barr virus to become chronic (which is the primary suspect for causing the extreme fatigue you previously had). All this sucks and it’s awful you keep getting setbacks. But there is some good news. The real underlying problems that need to be addressed are the central nervous system dysregulation and the SIBO. Both are challenges that can be tackles and if they can be overcome, the body should be able to fix the rest itself (Epstein Barr & even Lyme can be retained in the body asymptomatically when immune system function is restored). The LDN along with lifestyle changes (anything that brings stress relief – more on that below) can help with dysregulation. Careful diet and homeopathic treatments should be able to heal the SIBO over time (but you need to be strict with yourself – no moments of weakness). It sucks that they have to give you corticoids as those are immunosuppressive. It may be counterintuitive when fighting off a virus but it is definitely a necessity if lung inflammation is involved (though the asthma is just another symptom of a bigger issue). As to the lumps on your arms and knees, what those could be would depend on the location. If they are in major joints (i.e. if the ones on your arms are at the elbows or wrists) then it is most likely cause by an infectious flare up (like Lyme of Epstein Barr) or something autoimmune like Lupus. But doing a biopsy to rule out the other potential options is a good idea. I mentioned stress management above as being the key to fighting any chronic illness…I found something incredible. I recently tracked down and tried decaf Oolong tea for the first time and it is…wow. There is no other word for the effect. The taste is a bit strong but the relaxation effect is just incredible. I’ve never experienced anything quite like it (though I’ve never really done any drugs so…). Why it works: the tea has gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) right in it! This is the primary neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic nervous system (responsible for resting, relaxing, and digestion). As you seem to be open to homeopathic options, this one is definitely worth a try. The effect is incredible for anyone who lacks GABA due to anxiety or dietary issues. I’d be willing to bet my house you’re critically low on GABA. (That said, I have no idea how GABA interacts with any medications you may be taking). Other than that, I will add one other piece of less practical advice on stress management: above all else, you have to believe. You have to believe that things will get better, that everything will turn out all right, and that this is happening for a reason. Believe that this will all mean something someday though you can’t know that meaning or reason right now. It comes down to trusting that someday it’ll all be worth it no matter how difficult that seems. And on a fundamental level, in the space between breaths when you are the eternal observed of events and not the thinker, you are ok.

Aww I’m sorry to hear that 😿 Hope you feel better soon!

(Don't) Call Me Angel

A pair of arms hugging you Is enough to clasp the earth and sky A kind of stubborness which will not let go Is enough to light up all our hopes and dreams The universe is boundless and cold One love is small but forever glistens Difficult but so cherished Outside the chaos is pure embrace Light Years Away - Chinese song translated via Vietnamese so how it comes out in French, I hate to think, but intended to express a hope that being cherished by those around you has healing powers greater than any medication. Fondest wishes for your swift return to your road to recovery. Take care and stay safe.

J’espère que tu iras vite mieux 😢 Et que l’embellie des dernières semaines va reprendre de plus belle !

*hugs* I hope the road to recovery won't be very long... I think these cowardly pathogens are just jealous of how well you've been doing, so they're trying to sneak in hits while they still can. We'll be sending you all of our best wishes.