Lyme Disease Treatment
Comprehensive naturopathic protocols for acute Lyme, chronic Lyme, and co-infections
Understanding Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a complex, multi-system illness caused by the spirochete bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted primarily through tick bites. When not caught early or treated inadequately, it can become a chronic, debilitating condition.
At Arizona Integrative Medical Center, we specialize in treating all stages of Lyme disease, from acute infection to chronic Lyme and post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS). Our comprehensive approach addresses not just the bacteria, but the full spectrum of dysfunction that occurs in Lyme patients.
The Lyme Disease Challenge
Many Lyme patients are told their symptoms are "all in their head" or receive false-negative test results due to the limitations of standard testing. We use advanced specialty testing and a clinical approach that takes your symptoms seriously.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease
Lyme disease can affect virtually every system in the body. Common symptoms include:
Neurological
- Brain fog and cognitive dysfunction
- Memory problems
- Headaches and migraines
- Numbness and tingling
- Facial palsy (Bell's palsy)
Musculoskeletal
- Joint pain and swelling
- Muscle aches and weakness
- Migrating pain
- Neck stiffness
- Arthritis-like symptoms
Systemic
- Profound fatigue
- Fever and chills
- Night sweats
- Sleep disturbances
- Unexplained weight changes
Cardiac & Other
- Heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Light and sound sensitivity
- Mood changes and anxiety
Co-Infections: The Hidden Complication
Many Lyme patients are also infected with other tick-borne pathogens that require specific treatment. Common co-infections include:
- Babesia: A malaria-like parasite causing air hunger, night sweats, and severe fatigue
- Bartonella: Causes stretch mark-like rashes, anxiety, foot pain, and neurological symptoms
- Ehrlichia/Anaplasma: Cause severe flu-like symptoms and low white blood cell counts
- Rickettsia: Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and related infections
- Mycoplasma: Stealth pathogen causing fatigue and respiratory symptoms
Our Diagnostic Approach
Standard two-tier CDC testing misses up to 50% of Lyme cases. We utilize specialty laboratories and advanced testing methods:
Specialty Testing
IGeneX, Vibrant Wellness, DNA Connexions PCR testing, and Galaxy Diagnostics for comprehensive pathogen detection.
Functional Assessment
Immune panels, inflammatory markers, hormonal evaluation, and metabolic testing to understand the full picture.
Our Approach
Lyme disease, especially in its chronic or post-treatment form, is complex. Dr. Stallone evaluates each patient's individual situation — history, prior treatment, current symptoms, laboratory findings — and discusses an individualized plan. The following are categories of options that may be considered as part of that plan, depending on the clinical picture. Not every option is appropriate for every patient.
Antimicrobial Options
- Herbal antimicrobial protocols (used in integrative Lyme practice)
- Pharmaceutical antibiotics when clinically appropriate, in coordination with the patient's other providers
- Anti-biofilm strategies and other supportive antimicrobial approaches
IV Nutrient & Supportive Therapies
High-Dose Vitamin C
Used as a supportive immune therapy when clinically appropriate.
Ozone Therapy
Major autohemotherapy used as supportive integrative therapy in select patients.
Myers' Cocktail
Nutrient IV with magnesium, B vitamins, and vitamin C to support energy and overall function.
Glutathione IV
Used to support the body's antioxidant and detoxification pathways.
Immune and Other Supportive Therapies
- Immune-modulating therapies discussed individually with each patient
- Hormone, mitochondrial, and adrenal support where indicated
- Detoxification support during treatment to help manage Herxheimer-type reactions
- Anti-inflammatory and lifestyle counseling (nutrition, sleep, stress)
Individual Results & Expectations
Chronic Lyme recovery varies significantly from patient to patient. Some experience substantial improvement; others continue to require ongoing care. Dr. Stallone discusses realistic expectations, adjusts the plan over time, and coordinates with the patient's other providers as needed. Lyme care should always be part of a coordinated medical plan, not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified physician.
Suffering from Lyme Disease?
If you've been struggling with Lyme disease or suspect you may have it, we're here to help. Our comprehensive approach addresses all aspects of this complex illness. Take the first step toward recovery today.
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