Some one asked me what I do differently that I can still work. I have to be honest I don’t really do anything differently accept I put a heavy focus on pain and symptom management as I go through treatment. If I hurt I get a non addictive pain reliever like Tramadol. I see a rheumatologist. Even though she doesn’t understand in Lyme she does understand pain. I take amatryptaline for sleep disturbance. Promthazine and B12 for nauseas. Whatever this issue I treat both the symptoms as well as the problem.
I do not set the expectation to do the same level of work I did when I was well.
I studied 179 death records of adults in the northeast with Lyme listed on the COD (Cause of Death). The average age at death was 54. I am 39. I already have neuroborreliosis. So I am on the 12 to 15 year plan. Recognizing a shorten window of life gives me the extra kick in the pants to try and make each day count despite the Lyme.
I volunteer for Hospice and that gives me a perspective on life, sickness and pain.
Things that don’t help. I am an artist and pursuing my creative passion does not help. I am a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. The mental hardening and pain conditioning from this sport have no effect on Lyme.
If you can’t work – You didn’t do anything wrong don’t beat yourself up about it. You are not selfish or lazy. This is not all in your head. You are not making a mountain out of a mole hill. Take the time to get well. You can go back to work later.
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