Lyme and Stress

     Everyone has stress. It is when stress is derived from an overwhelming situation, that it effects your bodily symptoms, and ability to function in an everyday way. For instance, the sudden death of a young person, parent, or child. A divorce, abuse, threats, or someone with an addiction. These are examples of highly stressful situations which take you out of the ordinary and place you into a state similar to shock.
     Yesterday I had one of these types of stresses suddenly happen in my life. Today, I have been experiencing a variety of  Lyme symptoms. Stress at that level can effect anyone, but even more so if you have a disease. For me, I have a sudden increase in shaky hands, the feeling that my body is being stretched like an elastic both upwards and downwards, which I haven't felt treatment. Brain fog, which had long disappeared, I noticed as soon as I got up. And fatigue, that overwhelming feeling of sleep is here. I am taking my meds, but I think they are so strong this week that it increases my sickness as well.
     I thought I would share this occurrence in Lyme Patients and others who may be in an overly stressful situation with no control in the outcome. Taking care of myself is the best way to make it pass without lingering. It helps me to accept things. Today I will start with an Epsom salt bath. I will follow up with lots of green tea. I will take all the supplements and antioxidants I have in my arsenal. I will nap. I will eat healthy foods. And I will paint. A hobby may be one of the best ways to move on from the shock of your situation.
     In doing all this, my symptoms will fade more quickly, and normalcy will arrive with a pleasant peace.
     One more thing: when you are ready, find a good friend, a pastor, a counselor, just some you trust. Spill out your emotions, and description of the event which caused distress, Emotional health is just as important as physical help, especially when your body is already stressed by fighting a disease. In my case, I ask for prayer as well. It is a very powerful force in changing situations, and people's hearts.
     Fellow Lymies, I hope this helps you.