I Have Lyme Disease & Long COVID: 6 Tools Helping My Immune System Rebound

After my mother's untimely passing due to breast cancer, I was inspired to start a career in wellness. I became a certified massage therapist, Reiki therapist, yoga instructor, and nutritionist. My ultra-strict diet and lifestyle seemed like a foolproof path toward health, but life had other plans for me.

At 30, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, which led me to reevaluate my totally holistic approach. After successful cancer treatment, I maintained a healthy way of eating but with more flexibility. Little did I know that more health challenges awaited me. I began experiencing debilitating and seemingly unrelated physical and neurological symptoms. Eventually, I was diagnosed with Lyme disease.

During the early stages of the Delta variant, before vaccines were available, I experienced what I thought was a Lyme flare-up: The blurry vision, dizziness, and mild fatigue were all too familiar.

After the recommended 10-day isolation period, I anticipated a return to normalcy. But the debilitating symptoms continued. It felt as if I had Lyme disease on steroids. Over time, I realized that my experience wasn't so uncommon: Researchers now suspect that those with weakened immune systems could be more susceptible to long COVID1.

To find relief, I revisited the protocols that had worked for my Lyme symptoms, including another round of intramuscular antibiotics for an additional six months. But the things that worked in the past were not yielding the same results. It became apparent that the intersection of Lyme disease and COVID-19 presented unique challenges that required a new approach.

I went on to explore different treatment modalities, adding and subtracting elements to find an effective balance. After much trial and error, I found that the following six strategies benefited my recovery the most, and I continue to keep them as part of my daily routine.

That said, every individual's journey is unique when it comes to illnesses like Lyme disease and long COVID-19. Listen to your body and consult with healthcare professionals experienced in managing immune-compromising conditions.

Adopting an anti-inflammatory lifestyle has transformed my well-being. I now prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods that possess natural anti-inflammatory properties. I fill my plate with vibrant fruits and vegetables, fatty fish loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, wholesome nuts and seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil. Minimizing processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats has quelled my inflammation and bolstered my immune function.

Through my recovery journey, I have experienced the revitalizing effects of acupuncture—a time-honored therapy that restores equilibrium and facilitates healing. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture has helped me alleviate pain, reduce fatigue, and harmonize my body's energy flow.

Don’t let the visuals of needles scare you off! I'd recommend seeking out a skilled acupuncturist who is well-versed in supporting those with immune-compromising conditions and can help you develop a tailored treatment plan.

The transformative power of yoga has helped me to regain balance in my life. I engage in a daily yoga practice that harmonizes physical postures, breath control, and mindfulness.

My journey with Lyme disease and long COVID-19 taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience when managing immune health. The unexpected challenges posed by COVID-19 forced me to reevaluate my treatment approach, making adjustments to accommodate the complex interaction between the two illnesses.