Lyme Disease

Introduction: Why Lyme Disease Needs a Functional, Integrative Strategy

Lyme disease—especially when chronic—can present a labyrinth of symptoms, from fatigue and brain fog to joint pain. Standard treatment often misses the broader picture: immune imbalance, lingering pathogens, and insufficient detoxification. At Patients Medical in New York City, our integrative, functional medicine approach aims to help your body clear infection, rebalance systems, and restore vitality—naturally and sustainably.

What Is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted primarily through tick bites. Early signs may include fever, fatigue, and the classic bull’s-eye rash. If untreated or chronic, Lyme can lead to:

  • Fatigue and malaise
  • Neurological symptoms: peripheral neuropathy, cognitive impairment
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Heart rhythm disturbances
  • Autoimmune triggers

 

Common Symptoms of Lyme Disease:

Root Causes: Why Does Lyme Persist?

Functional medicine delves into the underlying dysfunctions that allow Lyme to persist:

  • Biofilm formation and dormant Borrelia forms
  • Immune system dysregulation
  • Co-infections (e.g., Bartonella, Babesia)
  • Dysbiosis and gut barrier issues
  • Toxin load (heavy metals, mold)
  • Hormonal and adrenal imbalances
  • Nutrient deficiencies and poor detox capacity

 

Advanced Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we utilize advanced diagnostics to understand the full scope of your Lyme disease infection and its impact on your health. We combine traditional testing with cutting-edge functional medicine assessments:

Lyme Disease Testing

Co-Infection Testing

Co-Infection Testing

Inflammatory Markers

Nutrient Deficiency Testing

Heavy Metal Testing

Integrative Treatments for Lyme Disease

Nutritional Therapy

  • Anti-Inflammatory Diets: Diets rich in vegetables, healthy fats, and lean protein to reduce inflammation and support detoxification.
  • Supplementation for Detoxification: Including herbs and nutrients that support liver detox, like milk thistle and glutathione.
  • Gut Health Support: Probiotics and prebiotics to restore gut health, which can be compromised by both Lyme disease and its treatment.

IV Vitamin Therapy

  • High-Dose Vitamin C: To support immune function and reduce oxidative stress.
  • Magnesium and B Vitamins: To help alleviate fatigue and muscle pain.
  • Glutathione: A powerful antioxidant to help detoxify the body and support liver function.
  •  

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

  • Andrographis: Known for its immune-boosting properties and effectiveness in treating Lyme co-infections.
  • Cat’s Claw: A potent herb shown to help fight Lyme disease and reduce inflammation.
  • Curcumin: An anti-inflammatory compound found in turmeric that helps reduce pain and improve cognitive function.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: For reducing inflammation and supporting brain health.
  •  

Stress Reduction & Mental Health Support

  • Meditation and Mindfulness: To reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
  • Acupuncture: Helps alleviate pain and support overall immune function.
  • Adaptogenic Herbs: Such as Rhodiola and Ashwagandha to balance stress hormones and improve energy levels.

Hormone Balancing

  • Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (BHRT): To balance hormones and restore energy levels.
  • Thyroid Optimization: To support healthy thyroid function, which is often impacted by chronic infections.

Real Case Study: Overcoming Chronic Lyme

David, 47, faced chronic fatigue, nerve pain, and cognitive problems 18 months after a tick bite. Testing revealed Lyme, Babesia co-infection, heavy metal toxicity, and dysbiosis. His integrative plan included:

  • Dual herbal antimicrobials
  • Biofilm disruptors + IV support
  • Gut panel-directed supplements
  • Adrenal restoration and detox liver support

Outcomes (4 months):

  • Fatigue improved by 70%
  • Joint and nerve pain resolved

Mood and cognition significantly recovered

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Many patients reach remission. Ongoing health maintenance supports long-term wellness.

 Protocols often run 6–12 months depending on disease stage and complexity.

 Yes. We collaborate to create coordinated, comprehensive protocols.

 We carefully design protocols to avoid negative interactions and support synergistic healing.

 We are out-of-network but provide superbills. Lab testing may be insurable.

Support your immune system through proper nutrition, supplements (like vitamin C, magnesium, and omega-3s), stress reduction, and IV therapy.

Co-infections are other pathogens carried by ticks, such as Babesia or Anaplasma, that can worsen symptoms and complicate treatment.

Yes, Lyme disease can lead to cognitive issues such as memory loss, brain fog, and anxiety, which can be addressed with targeted therapies.

If you suspect Lyme disease, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to preventing long-term complications.

Long-term treatment can sometimes result in side effects such as digestive issues, herxheimer reactions (detox symptoms), and nutritional deficiencies, which can be managed with integrative care.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

Make an Appointment