Seeing as nearly 5 months have passed since I began the abx protocol for ms, I figured it was high time for an update. Also for those who may be interested, I have suspected a chronic infection etiology for my ms since the dx 4 yrs ago, and welcomed the chance to try the protocol empirically.
I might add that it is incredible to see where I was symptomatically in Oct.05 compared to now. Back then my ears were ringing, my head felt hot, I was discoordinated, depressed, very spastic day and night even with Baclofen. I was also just starting to have some trouble with driving[spastic foot]. I was heading quickly from needing a cane, to needing a chair/scooter.
When I began the abx, I quickly was able to cut my antidepressant(s) doses in half--and happily, this has a permanent improvement. My goal is to be completely off those meds by this time next year--hope it's not too ambitious. Even during the short-term gloom of Flagyl pulses, I remain buoyant. However, one thing is extremely important when tapering off antidepressants: get your doc's guidance and
go slow
This is important with the ms brain--recovery is gradual over time-be patient with your body--it will get better.
Also, I went from needing Baclofen 3X/day to only prn. In the past 4 wks, I have only needed 3 doses total![these were during Flagyl pulses] This improvement is huge for me.
I have had NO return of the leg/foot spasticity that threatened my independence In Aug/Sept '05--nothing even remotely resembling it! And for this I am so grateful!!
This is not to say that all is well every moment--My gait, which was always my biggest issue, remains a challenge that I must deal with on a daily basis.[ stretching/strengthening]. I have ups and downs--but compared to pre-protocol days, the 'ups' are obliterating the 'downs'. I can feel a pattern as well in lasting cognitive improvement in the days that follow the abx pulses. I have felt like my old self long enough now that I have started a new job--[this is something that I would not have even considered 4 mos ago]--I feel competent and it is going very well.
Though I do not have the support of my neuro, I firmly believe that my great gains are directly related to my adherence to the Wheldon abx protocol. I plan to continue on for at least another year or more...whatever it takes to avoid falling back into the pit.
KK2
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