If my initial 1,25-D is low does that mean the Herxheimer reactions won't be severe?
There is often NO correlation between the D metabolites results and the Herxheimer reactions to be expected. Some people with very high 1,25-D have not had severe Herxheimer reactions while some people with relatively low levels have had severe reactions.
Therefore, everyone needs to be cautious when starting the Marshall Protocol and follow it exactly to avoid severe Herxheimer reactions or severe symptoms due to sun/lights exposure. See THE EFFECT OF SUNLIGHT/DAYLIGHT AND BRIGHT LIGHTS ON PERSONS WITH TH1 INFLAMMATORY DISEASE
The clinical picture may hint at the severity of Herx to be expected or the severity of a Herxheimer reaction but many people have been surprised by Herxheimer reactions that did not mimic their disease symptoms. This occurs because inflammation in specific organs is often undiagnosed and only revealed when an antibiotic targets occult bacteria.
When you begin to avoid sun/lights and protect your eyes with NoIR sunglasses, photosensitivity often increases because the level of 1,25-D decreases and allows the immune system to 'see' the bacteria in your eyes. Benicar adds to this effect by furthering lowering the level of 1,25-D. It is best to anticipate this temporary symptom and take all precautions to avoid sun/lights exposure and a subsequent flare in 1,25-D.
A rapid rise in 1,25-D (from exposure to sun/lights or ingested Vitamin D or the Herxheimer reaction) causes symptoms because the body tries hard to maintain homeostasis. This can happen even with a low 1,25-D level. The location of the dying bacteria may have more of an effect on the severity of the Herxheimer reaction. For example, cardiac, pulmonary or throat inflammation may cause symptoms mimicking heart attack.
Because it is impossible to know just where inflammation is located, everyone should assume, at least initially, that they are at risk for severe Herxheier reactions.
Following the Marshall Protocol exactly by establishing a Benicar inflammatory blockade, avoiding all sources of sun/lights and ingested Vitamin D and proceeding cautiously with the antibiotics, is advised for everyone regardless of their disease symptoms or D-metabolite results. The Herxheimer reaction is to be expected but not feared because it can be controlled.
"...the balming effect of the Benicar induced reduced inflammation and its enhancement of antibiotic effectiveness is superior to antibiotic therapy alone. ...remember, labs do make errors. I have had a number of patients, who despite low blood levels of 1,25 OH D, have had significant Herx with antibiotics alone and when put on Benicar had better results."
Greg Blaney, MD
* We can help you understand chronic disease, but only your physician is licensed to give you medical care * Always consult your physician before commencing or changing any treatment he/she has prescribed for you
