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Lyme disease, primarily caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted through tick bites, presents a unique challenge for both patients and healthcare providers. While conventional medicine offers Lyme disease treatment with a short course of antibiotics, many patients find that this approach doesn’t fully address the complexity of their symptoms. For individuals with persistent Lyme disease or co-infections, integrative medicine, also known as functional medicine, offers a more comprehensive approach that addresses the entire body, not just the infection. At Sierra Integrative Medical Center, we utilize integrative treatments to enhance healing, manage symptoms, and improve overall quality of life.
Integrative medicine combines conventional treatments (such as antibiotics) with alternative therapies and lifestyle adjustments to support the body’s natural ability to heal. It takes a holistic view, addressing not only the immediate symptoms but also the underlying issues and potential co-infections that may contribute to chronic Lyme symptoms. This approach can be especially effective in Lyme disease, where symptoms often persist long after the initial infection due to factors like immune suppression, biofilm formation, and co-infections.
Traditional medical protocols for Lyme disease involve antibiotics, typically prescribed for two to four weeks. However, studies have shown that Lyme bacteria can sometimes survive even after antibiotic treatment, leading to a condition known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). Patients with PTLDS continue to experience symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, and cognitive issues, which can significantly impact daily life.
Research suggests that Lyme bacteria can enter a persistent state, forming biofilms that make them harder to eradicate and leading to chronic, systemic inflammation. Because of these factors, an integrative approach that supports the immune system, enhances detoxification, and addresses co-infections is often essential for long-term recovery.
At Sierra Integrative Medical Center, we take a multi-faceted approach to Lyme disease treatment that combines the best of conventional and alternative therapies. Here’s a look at how our integrative treatment protocols work:
Antibiotics remain an important part of Lyme disease treatment, especially in the early stages. We use antibiotics judiciously, tailoring the type, dosage, and duration to each patient’s needs. Antibiotic therapy may be combined with other treatments to address persistent or complex cases effectively.
Herbal medicine plays a significant role in Lyme disease treatment. Certain herbs, such as Cat’s Claw, Japanese Knotweed, and Samento (a form of Cat’s Claw), have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help target Lyme bacteria and reduce inflammation. Deer antler velvet, another valuable supplement, is a natural adaptogen known for supporting immune health and promoting recovery. Rich in growth factors, it helps strengthen the immune response and contributes to overall resilience, especially beneficial for patients with chronic Lyme disease.
These herbs are often used in combination to create a comprehensive protocol that supports the immune system while directly addressing Lyme and any co-infections.
Nutritional support is also key in integrative medicine, especially for Lyme patients who may experience nutrient depletion due to chronic inflammation. Vitamin C, B vitamins, and Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly recommended to support immune function and reduce oxidative stress. At Sierra Integrative Medical Center, we customize nutritional plans to each patient’s specific deficiencies and needs, enhancing their body’s natural resilience and aiding recovery.
A strong immune system is crucial in the fight against Lyme disease, especially for those with chronic symptoms. Integrative therapies, such as intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy and glutathione infusions, can strengthen immune response, reduce inflammation, and support detoxification pathways. Glutathione, an antioxidant produced naturally in the body, is particularly helpful for Lyme patients as it neutralizes free radicals and aids in cellular repair.
For some patients, immune-modulating herbs like Ashwagandha and Astragalus are also integrated into their treatment plans to help balance immune activity and reduce autoimmune responses that can occur in chronic Lyme disease.
Detoxification is a vital component of integrative Lyme treatment, as Lyme bacteria release toxins (endotoxins) that can contribute to systemic inflammation and worsen symptoms. To support detoxification, we incorporate:
By supporting the body’s natural detox pathways, we help reduce the toxic load that contributes to symptoms like brain fog, muscle pain, and fatigue.
Ticks often carry more than just Lyme bacteria, leading to co-infections like Babesia, Bartonella, and Ehrlichia. Each co-infection requires a unique treatment approach, as they produce their own symptoms and can complicate Lyme disease recovery. Integrative medicine allows us to address these co-infections through both pharmaceutical and herbal protocols, ensuring comprehensive care for patients with multi-infection profiles.
Integrative medicine allows for a personalized, patient-centered approach that addresses Lyme disease at its root. By targeting Lyme bacteria, supporting immune function, enhancing detoxification, and addressing co-infections, this approach helps to reduce symptoms and support long-term healing. Patients often find that integrative treatments provide a level of relief and recovery that traditional medicine alone cannot achieve.
At Sierra Integrative Medical Center, we believe that every patient deserves a comprehensive, compassionate approach to Lyme disease care. Our functional medicine protocols provide a balanced combination of conventional and alternative treatments, tailored to your individual needs. Sierra Integrative Medical Center prioritizes:
If you or a loved one is struggling with Lyme disease, we invite you to explore the benefits of integrative medicine at Sierra Integrative Medical Center. Our team is here to help you reclaim your health, energy, and well-being.
For more information, reach out to schedule a consultation and learn how our integrative approach can help you on your journey to recovery.
Sources:
ILADS: Treatment Guidelines for Lyme Disease – https://www.ilads.org/patient-care/ilads-treatment-guidelines/
National Institutes of Health: Understanding Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6427742/
Journal of Medical Microbiology: The Role of Biofilms in Lyme Disease – https://jmm.microbiologyresearch.org/content/journal/jmm/10.1099/jmm.0.001003
LymeDisease.org: Herbal Protocols for Lyme Disease – https://www.lymedisease.org/lyme-basics/lyme-disease/treatment/
We’re now accepting new patients to our freestanding outpatient clinic in Reno, Nevada. Contact us at 775-828-5388 today to schedule your initial consultation, or to find out how our integrative medicine doctors can help treat your condition!
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