margo11
I saw a new gastro recently who thinks I have lyme. My gp also thought it was possible but western blot was negative. But apparently western blot is not reliable?
The gastro wants to proceed with expensive IGeneX tests not covered by insurance... He also wants to order ALCAT for
food sensitivities , a breath test for SIBO, a comprehensive stool test, and other out of network blood tests. I think we can get reimbursed through insurance for a good amount of the testing but I'm still pretty unsettled by the upfront out of pocket cost considering that I'm a college student relying on my family's generosity.
I've heard the IGeneX test can be unreliable too and can turn up a false negative several times in a row before finally becoming positive. Is this the best option for lyme testing?
I remember I was bitten by a tick as a child and wasn't treated. Although I can't remember any specific symptoms at that time I grew up in New England and had plenty of opportunities for exposure to lyme carrying insects... So I think lyme is a real possibility.
My current symptoms are:
bloating, nausea, heartburn, fatigue, muscle aches, stiff shoulders/neck, FODMAP/polysaccharide intolerance, other food intolerance, allergies, back pain, migraines, visual snow + other neurological symptoms, sporadically painful urination (but no UTI)
Currently on a paleo/low FODMAP/low starch diet. I eat a lot of fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood. Eliminating starch has been helpful. I can't tolerate FODMAPs at all as I end up with excruciating lower back pain. Doctors are kind of miffed by this but maybe lyme would explain?