My Health Update -

Back in December I mentioned I'd give an update on my health. Many of you know that for three years now I have been suffering from many, many different symptoms that have caused me a lot of anxiety, and missed days of life. I have seen approximately 8 different doctors during that time, and had sooooo many tests I've lost count. Well finally we have a diagnosis - I have relapsing fever - Relapsing Fever is a disease characterized by relapsing or recurring episodes of fever, often accompanied by headache,muscle and joint aches and nausea. Tick-borne relapsing fever (TBRF) -
TBRF is caused by several species of spiral-shaped bacteria that are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected soft ticks. Most cases occur in the summer months and are associated in particular with sleeping in rustic cabins in mountainous areas of the Western United States. There are approximately 25 cases of TBRF in the United States each year.
Only 25 cases a year - and I get it - why couldn't I have won the lottery? :)

Shortly before all my symptoms started we had attended a wedding in Northern California where we did sleep in a cabin, and the wedding was outdoors in the woods where we spent most of the day - so the Dr. is assuming that trip is where I got bit by the tick. Below is a picture of what these creatures look like in my blood - yuck! The good news is that I can be treated with some pretty strong drugs for 10 days, and the Dr. is pretty sure that will be the end of it. Since the meds can make me sick - I probably won't start treatment till Feb due to some other commitments in Janaury. But I am soooo looking forward to getting rid of these creatures and leading a normal life again. I'll keep you posted on how it all goes.

When I'm all done with treatment and it's worked - I think I'll contact Medical Mysteries or Mystery Diagnosis to see if they'll do a show on me - as it has been a long and bumpy road of misdiagnosis toward this correct diagnosis.