How did we all miss the bacteria taking over her body?
5 hours ago
- #ChronicIllness
- #MedicalMisdiagnosis
- #LymeDisease
- Milly, a previously active and vibrant child, became chronically ill after a tick bite in the countryside, leading to years of misdiagnosis and suffering.
- Initially diagnosed with ME/CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), Milly's condition was later correctly identified as Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks.
- The NHS's standard Lyme disease test (Elisa) failed to detect Milly's infection, highlighting issues with false negatives and underreporting of Lyme disease in the UK.
- Private testing revealed high levels of borrelia activity and co-infections, leading to a tailored antibiotic treatment plan not available through the NHS.
- Lyme disease is often misunderstood and underdiagnosed, with many patients experiencing 'medical gaslighting' and lack of effective treatment options.
- Despite challenges, Milly's treatment has shown significant progress, with her borrelia levels dropping dramatically after months of antibiotics and supportive care.
- The broader medical community remains divided on chronic Lyme disease, with some experts advocating for more research and better treatment protocols.
- Milly's story underscores the need for greater awareness, improved diagnostics, and compassionate care for Lyme disease patients.