Here is my progress report for six months on the MP.
Six Months on MP
Headaches – virtually none since beginning benicar – used to have debilitating headaches several times a month
“Colds” Only one in six months – significant improvement
Stopped thyroid medication in first month
Vertigo attacks – lessened in severity None since April 1, which seemed to be connected to light exposure.
Tinnitus has lessened significantly, notice it only initially after abx dose now
Candida – improved
Reflux – improved
Weight is up 2-3 lbs, esp. since phase II. This is negative as I am significantly overweight.
Sleep – about the same, still need 1-2 grams melatonin to sleep
Symptoms which increased initially but have abated some:
Anxiety
Hot flashes, night sweats
Light sensitivity
Brain fog
Heart palpitations
Breathlessness
Parasthesia
That’s the good news. However I have to say that in terms of day to day functioning it’s still fair to say that I am worse than before I started, because of the increase in fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and depression. The fatigue and pain are clearly connected to herx. I do think that there has been an increase I what I can do each day after the initial difficult adjustment to the Phase II abx. I think that post exertional malaise now can be measured in hours rather than days.
The continuing symptom that I find most difficult is what I call “flat-line” emotions. I have been really struggling with whether to take something for this. I had a doctor's appt. today and was hoping that she would tip the balance and she did. She wants me to try relaxation, biofeedback, etc, and perhaps some mild exercise if I can tolerate it.
For those of you wondering about phase 2- the initial adjustment was quite difficult for me, the worst beginning a week in and lasting a week to 10 days. I am very glad that I heeded the advice about being cautious with the phase 2 meds, would not have wanted it to be a bit worse. But things have settled down nicely since then.
