What is Herxheimer syndrome?
Herxheimer or Herx Reactions are a short-term (from days to a few weeks) detoxification reaction in the body. As the body detoxifies, it is not uncommon to experience flu-like symptoms including headache, joint and muscle pain, body aches, sore throat, general malaise, sweating, chills, nausea, or other symptoms.
What causes herxheimer reaction?
Description. This systemic reaction, also known as the Herxheimer’s reaction, was classically described in the treatment of syphilis. It is believed to be caused by the release of endotoxin-like substances when large numbers of Treponema pallidum are killed by antibiotics.
How do you stop a herxheimer reaction?
The best way to manage any Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction is to control the dosage of the probiotics. A 1-week supply of low dose probiotics is included with every initial purchase in order to offset the symptoms of precision probiotics. This can help lessen the intensity of any potential side effects of probiotics.
Is a herxheimer reaction good?
The onset of a Herxheimer reaction is somewhat diagnostic of a spirochetal infection. So, if you’re being treated for Lyme based on a clinical diagnosis, the herx can actually be a good sign that you are killing the right bacteria.
What foods should you avoid if you have Lyme disease?
Saturated fats, trans-fatty acids/hydrogenated fats. Common allergens: wheat/gluten, eggs, fish, milk/dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, corn, etc. Anything that is hard to digest or that makes you feel bad when you eat it.
What does a HERX reaction feel like?
Herx reactions can feel like the flu. Typically, increased muscle and joint pains, headaches, nausea, fatigue, low-grade fevers and brain fog are common. Usually following a detox protocol and slowing the progression of treatment will help to quell the symptoms.
What are symptoms of a HERX reaction?
The Herxheimer Reaction is a short-term (from days to a few weeks) detoxification reaction in the body. As the body detoxifies, it is not uncommon to experience flu-like symptoms including headache, joint and muscle pain, body aches, sore throat, general malaise, sweating, chills, nausea or other symptoms.
What does HERX feel like?
Do all Lyme patients HERX?
Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction does not occur in all patients with Lyme disease when receiving doxycycline or other antibiotic treatments.
How long does it take to feel better from Lyme disease?
Although most cases of Lyme disease can be cured with a 2- to 4-week course of oral antibiotics, patients can sometimes have symptoms of pain, fatigue, or difficulty thinking that lasts for more than 6 months after they finish treatment.
Is caffeine bad for Lyme disease?
Caffeine is not the answer to increasing energy levels in Lyme because it doesn’t provide any nutrients needed for energy production. When you’re feeling lethargic and drowsy, your go-to may be a caffeinated beverage such as coffee, tea, chocolate or a cola drink.
What is the name of the Herxheimer syndrome?
Technically known as the Jarisch-Herxheimer Reaction, this syndrome goes by many names, including JHR, the Herxheimer Effect, the Herxheimer Response, a Herx Reaction, Herx, or Herks. The most common terminology used is the Herxheimer Reaction.
What are some of the side effects of Herxheimer?
The 6 Most Common Herxheimer Reactions 1. Headache 2. Gut Reactivity (Diarrhea, Constipation, Bloating, Cramps, Nausea, or Allergic Reactions) 3. Temporary Flare-up of Inflammatory Conditions 4. Fatigue or Muscle Weakness 5. Breakouts, Rashes and Other Skin Issues 6. Lightheadedness or Vertigo
When does a Herxheimer reaction occur in Lyme disease?
About Herxheimer Reactions in Lyme. A die-off reaction, also called a Herxheimer reaction, can occur when treating the Lyme germ, some co-infections, and yeast. It occurs as bacteria or yeast die during antibiotic treatment. It is common to have Herxheimer die-off reactions when starting herbal antimicrobials or antibiotics when treating Lyme.
What kind of cytokines are involved in the Herxheimer reaction?
The Herxheimer reaction has shown an increase in inflammatory cytokines during the period of exacerbation, including tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6 and interleukin-8. Prophylaxis and treatment with an anti-inflammatory agent may stop progression of the reaction.