08/03/2012: Robyn from Melbourne, Australia: "Dear Lisa, Bill, Ted, anyone, since I cant seem to discover the crux of this problem even after doing what everyone has suggested - is there any clue in, I have mentioned my white tongue, my adrenal problems, viral, metal toxicities, liver - phase 1 too high, phase 2 too low except Id been taking some dmso so there was a sulfur pathway, even though in terrible pain I try to do some ex so I walk & I cant get away from a petrol & perfume exposure. More recently I have tried a yoga, pilates class. Big room well ventilated, not too many problems with deodorants I can do a pilates class if I dont do anything that uses my neck or shoulders, bulging disc at c4, 5, t5 - that or just the fibro if I did all the they wanted me to Id be on the floor for a week. But yoga stretches 1 or 2 is OK. Anymore than that and I feel like Im poisoned. Its so incredibly painful Im almost in a coma. And can last for days. Am I ever going to find out whats going on?"

08/04/2012: Timh from Louisville, Ky, Usa replies: "Robyn, if you are not responding to oral nutritional supplementation or modified diet, it is very likely you have digestive problems like H Pylori, Stomach or Intestinal (duodenal) Ulcer, Leaky Gut Syndrome, Crohn's etc. H Pylori or Candida or any pathogen will cause these ulcerative conditions. Must first kill the pathogens then rebuild the digestive system.

Or, you could have some unknown Congenital Disorder. After suffering many physical and mental weaknesses over the course of my life, I have come to the conclusion that I must have suffered some nutritional deficiencies in embryonic development as the result of my mother being over prescribed a pharm diuretic. Recapitulate your life and note any or all major or minor illnesses and even try to learn of your mom's condition or any meds during your development.

If your Cytochrome P450 1 is too high and 2 is too low, it seems appropriate to use the herb/spice Turmeric or Curcumin.

To get down to the level of DNA repair, fasting or the antioxidant Resveritrol activates survival codons. Add Grapeseed or Pinebark Extracts to Resveritrol so as to boost the effects. Tune into YouTube and listen to healing DNA repair 528 hz harmonics. Here is one that has been helping me lately: 528Hz DNA Frequency - UNLOCK Your Codons!!!

Hope this helps and good luck!"

08/05/2012: Robyn from Melbourne, Australia replies: "thank you!! After many yrs of not being able to work and seeing many docs my mother did whisper she had taken that banned fertility drug to have me. I have had food allergies and bad insomnia since birth. Often sick, then the 3 biggies at age 32, now I live on morphine. So yes, stomach problems. The food allergies was never diagnosed, we didnt have the internet back then, no doc back then would ever suggest food allergies. I was probably born with candida and celiac. Any carb foods used to make me gag. But I kept eating them. I often wonder if I stopped eating my gut would heal. I use tumeric powder on my veg but its not as good as the real thing, is it?"

08/06/2012: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe replies: "Robyn, the plain ol' turmeric powder from the grocery store is very useful. Could be the actual root is better, but the powder is powerful too."

04/15/2011: Sara from El Prado New Mexico, Usa: "I am frustrated about my health, I have been to 3 different Neurolgists and owe them 3 grand, first diag. was maybe als. Then guiliame barre syn, I went to an infectious disease Dr.I was on massive amounts of drugs for 8 months. I then started throwing up and lost 38 pounds. She diagnosed me with severe lymes disease. I had and still have sometimes, stinging in nerve endings. I took care of my son who had vacirella zoster and my husband just got over hep. C. And I got noro virus on a cruise ship. My immune system is shot, and my neck is arthritic and stiff, I have also had severe migraines for years, and stomachaches. I do not want to go to another Doctor! regards sara"

04/15/2011: Rrrr382003 from San Jose, Ca replies: "Wow! I haven't had your kind of diagnosis but I have had to play musical chairs with dr's, trying to find the one that gives the right diagnosis and meds, on and on and on..... Have you gotten desperate enough to try a wholistic dr? It took awhile to find the right one but we're healther than we've ever been. We can talk more if you like.... Good luck either way!!"

04/17/2011: Faith from Cincinnati, Ohio replies: "Alkalize your body, who cares what the official diagnosis is... Here's the protocol here under TO IMPROVE YOUR BODY TERRAIN...

http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/mystery-diagnosis.html"

08/20/2011: Helpyourself from Houston, Texas, Usa: "To Sol /For your wife's mystery illness.

Try 20 drops of Tabasco (it only has three ingredients, no preservatives) in about 4 ounces of water, and drink it. Do this a couple times per week.

Then use only as needed. So many benefits from this recipe.

To The Person with BO.

Use a lemon or lime. roll on counter putting pressure on lem/lime. cut in two and rub on problem area. You will not need to re-apply for 3 to 4 days. No more deoderant and harmful ingredients."

08/18/2011: Oscar from Syracuse, New York, Usa replies: "There are two things I can think of that have helped many people with a broad range of conditions and diseases. There is wheat grass juice. A woman by the name of Ann Wigmore developed this treatment back in the 1960s. It does not cost much. You can learn about that on the web. The same with BHT [ butylated hydroxytoluene ]. BHT costs very little and seems to work for many viral diseases and some other conditions also. I think they are at least worth a try. They don`t cost much and many people swear by them....Oscar"

08/22/2011: Ted from Bangkok, Thailand replies: "There are a couple things you should try first: lysine, N acetyl Cysteine, zinc acetate, and green tea extract, and selenium yeast. The lysine is 1000 mg, N acetyl cysteine 250 mg, These are taken every hour for six hours, and in evening taken hourly for two hours, before bedtime, If taken for 3 days, the supplement of glutamine is then added hourly dose thereafter along with lysine. Sugar of all kinds is avoided, even fruit sugars, the only thing you can eat is fruit extracts without any sweet, such as red wine extract, The beta glucan is taken twice a day at 3000 mg, zinc acetate is only taken 25 mg for a week only, thereafter weekly dose. The green tea extract is taken twice a day, the preferred one is ECGC (epigallocatechin gallate) but without caffeine. The beta glucan will remove some of allergy symptoms. Bloodroot tincture 10 drops 5 times a day will remove the polyps. If this doesn't work, you can contact my email. If she does not have high blood pressure, the morning dose is sea salt 1/4 teaspoon per cup of water should help reduce the sneezing and runny nose immediately, within 5 minutes, if partial reduction then may try 1/4 teaspoon more. If it doesn't work at all, you can see if taking more will help. This usually work. I don't usually do chicory for smoking but a chicory extract in drops, as bloodroot tincture may also help.

If the remedy doesn't work then contact me: parhatsathind@gmail.com
Ted"

08/29/2011: Lisa from Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin replies: "Sol... I had similar symptoms, although not as severe, as your wife... The runny nose when eating, digestion troubles, etc... I have been on a gluten, dairy, sugar, and caffeine free "diet" for the past few months and feel much better all around. At this time I am still partially cooking most of my food but am starting to slowly add back raw foods. My nose no longer runs when I eat. I am being treated by a naturopathic doctor. Good luck!"

02/21/2012: Sheila from San Diego, Ca: "Husband went to Urgent Care, saw 2 doctors, and his condition is a mystery to them too.

Symptoms:

- complained of a sinus problem/pain 2 weeks ago

- dizziness

- chills, constantly cold during even when bundled

- stiff neck and shoulder, excruciatingly painful; ice pack and hot pack helped relieve pain, especially the ice pack

- night sweats

This has been present for the last 5-7 days. He had blood drawn. He's not anemic, not diabetic, his Thyroid hormone is being checked, he doesn't have an infection, but the doctors mentioned that it could be an unknown virus.

Any ideas on what it could be so that we can ask his regular doctor to test for? Any recommendations for remedies?

I've been giving him electrolytes to prevent dehydration and ginger tea for his dizziness. The poor man can't seem to get warm. He's so miserable.

Please respond to: the_murdocks2004(at)yahoo.com"

02/21/2012: Debbie from Melbourne, Australia replies: "Does he have a lot of processed foods? Diet sodas? These contain MSG and/or aspartame which are excitotoxins and very dangerous in the diet.

It could be an MSG toxicity problem. Here is a list of symptoms for that.

http://www.msgmyth.com/symptoms.html"

02/21/2012: Cat from Tauranga, New Zealand replies: "Did they test for meningitis? The stiff neck symptom is one of the tell tale signs of this illness. That needs to be treated urgently!!! Good luck."

02/21/2012: Carly from Seattle, Wa -USA replies: "Hi Sheila, I agree with Debbie, it may have to do with diet and MSG.... Anyway, cutting out all processed foods for a few days certainly wouldn't hurt him, might just help. Heads up, if he is eating a lot of broths or soups.... they are just LOADED with MSG.

Also was thinking possible thyroid while reading.... Which Organic Virgin Coconut oil is good for the support of, as is Zinc. Maybe read about it on here under the ailments page. Lots of good info on here re MSG also.

Good luck, and please keep us posted as to how your husband is and what they figure out! Carly"

02/21/2012: Andrea C from Cardiff, Wales replies: "Hi xx yep! Looks like a virus that is going around the world at the moment hun x x x I myself and other friends had exactly the SAME symtoms!! Also STRESS will also cause similar symptons xxx n e way, if it 'the dreaded virus' it takes a few weeks 2 shake it off. He may feel as if he's getting 'some' relief occaisionally, then 'bam!! ' it knocks you again. Is he on n e meds? opiate, or other 'drug with drawal' and even 'alchohol' and cigarette with drawal' will cause these symptoms. But although unpleasant, it is a sign his body is fighting what-ever it is. I have friends across the world and we ALL had these viral symptoms and were all very rough x x x as long as he's hydryated and if he can't eat much look for 'clear broth reccipes' on the web and also 'how to make your own rehydration fluid'. There is also 'natural 'anti-viruls on E. C. LOVE Andrea c x x x P.S.google 'HEALING CRISIS as well xxxxxxxxxxxxx"

02/22/2012: Louwrence from Rustenburg, North West South Africa replies: "Hi Sheila, If I were you I would put him on liposomal vit c as it cures just about anything. Look it up on the net & then decide, it is cheaper than IV vit c, also do a liver flush & intestinal cleanse. Gallstones can also cause a stiff neck & shoulders so the liver flush should help with that If you want to test if the gallstones are causing the stiff neck shoulders take a big dose of epsom salts & if you get relief you know the cause is the gallstones. For info on how to do the liver flush the net will give you all the info that you need."

02/23/2012: Sheila from San Diego, Ca replies: "Lots to consider. Thank you for your responses.

My husband is still experiencing coldness at night and sweats. His stiffened neck and shoulders have relaxed -- alternating cold and hot packs have helped with easing that. I gave him a very small dose of niacin the night before and he only felt chilled once that night; forgot last night and he was up in the middle of the night changing clothes again due to sweat and chills.

He was tested for meningitis; nope.

It could be stress with other physical problems. I asked him to get his hormones checked, adrenal and thyroid.

We are strictly off MSG, aspartame and other additives at home, so unless he's sneaking nasty foods, I don't think it's currently his food. We cook regularly at home and use organic and primarily non-gmo foods, lots of fresh. We're also minimizing plastics.

It'd be nice if it weren't so much a mystery. If it is viral, I'd like to know what it is!

I'll look into the vit C recommended.

Please post anything else you can think of.

Appreciate it,

Sheila"

02/23/2012: Debbie from Melbourne, Australia replies: "Does he take iodine? Upping the dose may kill off any virus/pathogen. Colloidal silver is also an option. Chlorella and green juices would help cleanse the blood and also alkalise him. Also lemon juice is good for alkalizing."

02/23/2012: Maria from Gippsland, Vic, Australia replies: "Hi Sheila, I'm just going to run through some of my thoughts so if any ring a bell do a bit more research. Take his temperature even if its only a slightly raised one I would treat him for an infection/virus (albeit an unknown one). If his temperature is normally in the low range and is now at the highest of the normal then I would still treat it as a low grade fever. Personally I would definitely do this as even your Drs. think it could be, plus the symptoms do fit.

Another one is chemical exposure prior to the symptoms.

Sweating does help get rid the body of toxins especially if your liver is not functioning at its peak. Did they test (blood) for liver function? Some support for it would be helpful for chemical exposure and for when killing viruses etc.

Magnesium oil rubbed over the stiff areas 2-3 times a day may help.

Do you eat a lot of corn? The reason I ask is that your husband received benefit from niacin. Which can become deficient in those eating corn/maize products regularly. Unless of course you are doing the ancient way of cooking it with lime (not the fruit). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nixtamalization"

02/24/2012: Cat from Austin, Tx replies: "This sounds exactly like my husband when he has had something that he is allergic to inside food. Sometimes he would curve into a ball on the floor with chills, frozen arm, chest pain, or some other symptom. Going to the hospital/doctor never helped... They would find nothing. After much self-testing, we finally pinned it down to peppers and this includes chili peppers & bell peppers but not black pepper. He alleviates symptoms (an inflammatory response) by taking vitamin-C with baking soda, Quercitin, HCL or Bromelin.

Tell your husband to fast 24 hours and laxative-empty his stomach and rectum. Then, start testing (individually) what he eats, first sticking mainly with fresh, raw fruit & veggies, then plain meat with salt; then start adding ingredients to cooked food. This is what we had to do until we found the culprit -- peppers. People put so many ingredients together when eating that we can't pinpoint what is adversely affecting our bodies.

Also, whenever we (all members of my family, now) go out to eat at ANY restaurant, afterward, we pass around a garlic capsule to each family member. At least 1 or more of us carries a bottle. We've learned through many experiences that taking a garlic capsule destroys E-Coli and other nasty germs that restaurants harbor. Family members who poo-pawed this practice got sick, but, are now believers. I hope this helps him. Much hope for your success..... CAT"

02/21/2013: Shelly from Chicago, Il, United States: "So, I'm new here to earthclinic (as a member). Reading through this site has really given me much hope and encouragement in helping me cope with the many ailments I am currently dealing with. I was wondering if anyone could help me? This is how it all started...

In Jan 2012, I gave birth to my daughter. I was also pre-eclamptic, & had high protien levels in my urine. My blood pressure was high, and remained high until 3 or so months after the birth. I wanted a natural birth SO bad! Ended up getting the epidural & other drugs. I did everything organic, right down to my bedsheets. I ate really well, and took good liquid vitamins. My birth experience was pretty stressful, & I had some post-pardum depression. So, I nursed until the end of April '12, when I was then forced to stop, because my milk supply just dropped dramatically. I tried all kinds of natural things, herbs, teas, etc. I didnt know why this was happening. Then, my bladder started to hurt. I got checked for what seemed like a UTI, but it came back negative, 3 times (in 2 weeks). After an evening run, I went to bed later, and awoke to feeling REALLY SICK. I thought I was getting a stomach/bacterial "bug", but it just wouldnt go away. I decided to go to the ER, and they sent me to ultrasound and checked my blood/urine. I had slightly low pancreatic enzymes ( prob cus I have not eaten in several hours! ). They sent me home with some drug that didnt help, and my "condition" or sickness, continued to linger.

These were my symptoms: ongoing nausea, pain/frequency in bladder, using the bathroom (BMs) 8-10x (mostly in morning; diarreah), extreme weakness, fatigue, dizziness, heart palpatations/high blood pressure, & hair loss! Over the course of the last 10 months since this has happened, I went to only a few docs, one was a gastroenterologist. She did a colonoscopy, and found I had microscopic colitis (duh- from the diarreah I was having! ). I did all sorts of experimenting with foods, etc.. and found that through much research, and Ted's advice through reading here, that I may have a candida overgrowth (really bad).

I don't understand HOW I got this sick! I ate realllly well, and was not on antibiotics. Well, one of the docs I was seeing gave me some antibiotics AFTER this episode, which didnt help, 'cus I told her I thought I had a parasite. What now? Do I really have a parasite? I had 2 stool samples, came back negative for them ( I hear they are not accurate though). I am going to see a Naturopath FINALLY next week, because we just didnt have money before. Am I wasting my time? Will they only give me supplements? Ive never been to a naturopath. Ive tried tons and tons of supplements, enzymes, etc, etc... And it seems like being on the candida diet has really helped the most, along with minerals, probiotics, & husband support. I also put myself on iodine that Ted suggested, and that helped stop my hair loss a LOT, and helped with some weakness. ANY time I g to eat carbs, starch, sugar (esp), or sugary-fruit, my symptoms come back within 2 days. I just need help. I don't know what to take, who to see, and I need to take care of a 13 month old and my large house, while trying to take care of myself! I am DESPERATE to get better. I am a new, young Mom here trying my best. It's been a battle. PLEASE... Suggestions! ???"

02/21/2013: Jellie from Sioux Falls, SD replies: "Dear Shelly, This sounds like a b12 deficiency which is common after birth. Are you a vegetarian by chance? If not, it doesn't really matter you can still be b-12 deficient. If yes, one more reason to think this is your problem. Look up the symptoms and you will see that many of them fit your list. Do your homework by reading--there is a lot on the net about this. I use Methylcobalamin sublinguals and start with 1000 mcg twice per day. You should also use real folate not folic acid. It takes a while to work."

02/22/2013: Timh from Louisville, Ky, Usa replies: "Shelly: You have begun your healing journey and will surely see some improvements after seeing the Naturalpath. If you could paste the notes you've taken from your recent diagnostics, that will help during your visit.

You seem to have a parasite infestation as well as some type pathogen. You will need to do Immune Boosting Therapies and maybe some blood building (take BlackStrap Molasses for this). Filter the air and water in your home. Take any nutritional supplements that are recommended in any of your symptoms. If your lucky you can make an almost 100% turn-a-round, but be warned that in many cases, these type conditions are chronic and are sometimes never completely resolved. Case-in-point, Mycoplasma or Lyme infections are very difficult to rectify. Round, Pin, and Hookworm can be resolved, but the Liver Fluke and Tapeworm infestations can be very difficult to irradiate.

Try to allocate some time reading up on conditions here on E.C., update your questions and progress, and we (E.C. members) will help you get your health back."

02/25/2013: Shelly from Chicago, Il replies: "Jillie... Yes I take b-12, amoungst other things. And Timh, I tried a parasite program, but it didnt seem very successful =/ I wouldnt know what program to take now. Any lab suggestions on where to go for that? I used to eat at salad bars often, and ate pretty organic... So maybe I picked something nasty up? I recall drinking water from a water fountain after my run the night that I got "sick".. So maybe there was something lurking in there? Who knows! I will try to get tested for pathogens (again).. And of course, the whole candida thing as I have been peeing white specks out for awhile now, along with reaccurant yeast infections. Why is this candida, if that's what it is, SO BAD! ? Can stress/hormone imbalance cause this to happen to such a severe degree?"

02/26/2013: Timh from Louisville, Ky, Usa replies: "Shelly: Conventional Medicine is 90% reluctant to test for parasites, so a ND would be your best bet. He/She can order a stool test that can determine pathogens as well as parasites. The Parasite hypothesis is likely true because they weaken the immune system and then you get a fungal infection that resist treatment. You can also get an Hair Analysis from your ND to determine mineral levels ie deficiencies, as well as possible heavy metal contamination (which would also induce untreatable fungal infection).

I made the same mistake of drinking ground water on more than one occasion and seem to have contracted the flukes. The standard herbal protocol for Parasites is Black Walnut Hulls, Clove, and Wormwood. For flukes in particular, Myrrh is recommended in addition to the prior. The flukes in particular are insidious because there are five stages that can inhabit the body, which in all could number in the millions. Research fluke symptoms to further determine your case.

Begin boosting your immunity with Zinc and Vit-A; these will also hasten healing particularly the intestines (which get eroded by Candida). Any of the detox protocols here on E. C. would be recommended in your situation.

Lots of info and personal testimonies here on E.C. for your perusal. Find a good Naturopath in your area.

Update us on your condition. Hoping you will get well soon."

02/26/2013: Heather from Santa Rosa, Ca replies: "Shelly~ I just replied to Abby too.... Again, I think this could possibly be an adrenal problem. Your signs are very "classic. " In the last year, you've undergone much physical and emotional trauma with the pregnancy, birth & nursing of your child. Please look up adrenal depletion here on EC. You will probably recognize almost every symptom.

I saw an ND and was prescribed a high quality Adrenal supplement. I felt better in no time & I know you will too. God bless & let us know what works for you!"

03/27/2013: Shelly from Chicago, Il, United States replies: "Hey All... So just an update with me.... I am seeing a ND outside of the city, and I got my results from the yeast/bacterial analysis through a stool culture. The results are that my bifido strains are low, and lacto are also a bit low... E-coli is good.. And it says I have 'yeast' but NOT candida albicans. She put me on 5 things: a good probiotic (in addition to what I have), colostrum, pancreatic enzymes, plant tannins ( it has 30mg of casien which I wasnt so crazy about), and also some candida-fighting supplement. I've heard of the brand she gave me for the candida/probiotic supplement, so I'm hopeful for that. I just hope this is strong enough to kick the yeast out!!! So.. Should I be doing anything else on top of this? Should I tell her, if I start taking borax? I haven't tried it yet... Would like to though!! I hope that this is the ACTUAL PROBLEM she is addressing.... Well see... & hope that I don't really have parasites like I though. Keep me in prayer!!!"

04/14/2013: Shelly from Chicago, Il replies: "More of a recent update with myself. I don't know whether to stop looking, stop going to my ND (which is costly! ), or to just give up. I've been ill for a WHOLE YEAR now! This is ridiculous. The only "result" I've gotten in tests, is that I have a yeast, that is not candida albicans. BUT I don't know if THAT'S what's causing the chains reaction of symptoms I'm still having. My most annoying symptoms are REALLY tired, I mean, WIPED OUT, weakness, and Interstitial cystitis. I also have bowel probs that come and go.. And a crawling feeling that goes from one side of my body, to the other. I've felt it when I had to stop nursing (when I got sick, initially) across my left breast. I've tried parasite stuff, and it seems like its not working. So, Im thinking a VERY stubborn yeast prob. Does anyone know if Teds/Bills fungus protocol is for ANY type of fungus/yeast??? I NEED to get onto something QUICK! I want to have more babies, live happily and NORMAL! Geez... Life can be a pain sometimes =/"

04/15/2013: Sweat Pea from Somewhere, Usa replies: "Shelly, Here is what I would suggest you try. You need mega doses of Vitamin C, like 500 mg per hour for a few days. You should feel the effects within an hour or two. If not, up it to 1000 mg per hour during your waking hours. Also try a mega dose of Lugol's iodine, anywhere from 50 to 100 mgs in a day. I would also take B-12, coconut oil, and at least 100 mcgs of selenium per day. I strongly suggest you check out Solgar's multiple vitamins with Chelated minerals and take two a day. You can get them online if not in a health food store. I am coming to realize what a lot of people are missing are minerals. Minerals are a catalyst for vitamins. You can be sufficient in every single vitamin yet if you lack minerals they simply won't work. Please, I beg you to try all these things and I bet you will start to feel better on day 1! Please keep us up to date and let us know if you feel better."

04/15/2013: Bill from San Fernando, Philippines replies: "Hi Shelley... It's fairly well known through research that yeast/fungal infections leave the door wide open for a multitude of other pathogens to enter the body. This is why no two people, who are infected with a yeast/fungal infection, will ever have exactly the same symptoms -- because there are a plethora of bacterial and viral co-infections(with their own symptoms) that can also be associated with a candida or yeast/fungal infection. As a result of this yeast/fungal infection together with increasing co-infections, the body tends to go into a never-ending downward health spiral as the immune system gets weaker and weaker. The way of modern medicine is to just recommend ant-fungals and antibiotics for yeast/fungal infections. In my opinion, antibiotics are both useless and dangerous against candida or yeast/fungal infections that will only ever act to increase its virulence and spread. This is referred to as the Antibiotic Syndrome. It's also well known that the anti-fungals recommended by doctors are not very effective at removing yeast/fungal infections because candida can easily adjust to them or hide in biofilms to avoid their effects. Modern medicine also has quite a poor record and reputation at diagnosing candida problems. Here is some recent research on these points:

Biofilm Formation by the Fungal Pathogen Candida albicans: Development, Architecture, and Drug Resistance.
Role of dimorphism in the development of Candida albicans biofilms
Recurrent Candidiasis: One Step Forward, Still Backward, (2004)

The above research should open your eyes to the fact that modern medicine still remains quite clueless as to how you should both treat and eradicate candida. Diagnosis of candida by modern medical techniques is also known to be poor and inaccurate:

Biological diagnosis of systemic candidiasis: difficulties and future prospects (2007)

Growing Concern: Inability to Diagnose Vulvovaginal Infections Correctly (2004).

The gist of the above is that modern medicine has not got a good record of either diagnosing or treating candida problems. Indeed Dr Orian Truss's well known book on candida is called Candida: The Missing Diagnosis -- which would seem to blatantly confirm modern medicine's clueless approach in diagnosing candida.

If you want to confirm whether you do indeed have a candida or fungal problem then you should take William Crook's questionnaire. William Crook wrote the book: The Yeast Connection: A Medical Breakthrough. From the book, this questionnaire will confirm, fairly accurately and in minutes at no cost, whether you have an internal yeast/fungal infection. This questionnaire works off a points system to give you a definite result:

William Crook's Questionnaire

To cure your yeast/fungal and co-infections problem I would further recommend that you take the following anti-candida protocol described lower down in this post stream: http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/fungal-infection-treatment-alternative-medicine.html#AFR_100956"

04/16/2013: Timh from Louisville, Ky, Usa replies: "Shelly: First try and center yourself with confidence ("I will get better"), with the acceptance that patience and dedication are required for complex and chronic illnesses. Spend some time reading here on E. C.

I suppose you didn't find any snails in the water hole from which you drank???

For immediate relief take hot baths w/ 1/4 cup Epsom Salt, 1/4 cup Baking Soda, 1/4 cup Borax.

Take Garlic Oil Softgels in the AM for parasites and pathogens. Take Oregano Oil Softgels in the PM for parasites and pathogens.

Purchase and use a Zapper to help eradicate parasites and pathogens; Zapper is also good for replenishing energy.

Purchase and use Detox Foot Pads for heavy metal elimination: http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR6.TRC1&_nkw=detox foot pads&_sacat=0&_from=R40

Also try Oil Pulling as it is very good for detoxing. Be sure to use mouthwash or rinse before and after.

Also use Coconut Oil daily. Also begin Potassium Iodi(n)(d) supplement to kill pathogens and restore energy."

04/16/2013: Mary from Regina, Saskchewan replies: "Why does zapping replenish energy?"

04/18/2013: Timh from Louisville, Ky, Usa replies: "Mary: Zapping restores cell voltage either directly or indirectly. All disease states lower cell voltage. Cancer voltage is way lower than a normal healthy cell. Zapping kills pathogens, parasites, and cancers, thus restoring normal cell voltage."

04/18/2013: Gavin from Manganui, Northland, New Zealand replies: "Funny thing was that after they abandoned ECT. (Electro convulsive therapy) for depression etc., they found that it stimulated new cell growth in the brain. I heard another thing where this guy hooks up an electro zapper to a patient's hand who has been in a long term coma, and the pulses go up through the finger nerves, back to the brain and the patient wakes up. So there is something in it. It makes you wonder if this would be another therapy for Altzhimers or Parkinsons."

04/20/2013: Shelly from Chicago, Il replies: "Bill... So.. I bought almost all the stuff for the fungal protocol.. And acutally, have read through it and printed it out... Several months ago. I'm just afraid of the detox reactions, I guess, esp with the borox. I have some questions though.. Maybe you or TIMH could answer??

1. Can I eat root veggies, carrots, peas, sweet potatoes at all?
2. Is the there a way to mix any of the protocol/fungus killing stuff.. As there is a LOT of stuff w/ liquid to take!!
3. Isn't fungus/yeast always mutating or resistant? So.. Doesnt the protocol have to change every 5 days (so I hear)?
4. Is taking a good probiotic ok?
5. Fermented foods ( Ive been hearing great stuff about it.. Trillions of good bacteria! )..
5. Will the fungus-killing stuff like borox and the MB kill GOOD bacteria?
6. What about ingesting essential oils?
7. Have you heard of parasites giving off a lot of yeast, or is it the yeast overgrowth that attracts the parasites?
8. Isn't it possible to just get rid of parasites by eating REALLY good organic, alkaline, raw foods... Detoxing the kidneys, liver, colon, and blood... and stay on that for awhile? Won't they just 'leave'?

TIMH... No.. No snails.. Hm.. But can it be ingesting through the water? The flukes? How do I know I really have flukes? Can you tell me where I can get good quality parasite stuff... Theres SO much out there, I dont know what to get! I've noticed significant improvement in energy when I juice... I juice 2x/day. Helps with energy! All organic, green juice.. Cucumber.. Celery.. Garlic.. Ginger.. Wheatgrass.. Lemon.. Kale.. Spinach... That is all. Thank you SO much for your input!!!!! God bless!"

04/21/2013: Bill from San Fernando, Philippines replies: "Hi Shelly... In response to all your questions:

1. Can I eat root veggies, carrots, peas, sweet potatoes at all?

That diet is fine but only eat small amounts of carbohydrate(sweet potatoes) because they are converted to sugar in the body and sugar feeds candida.

2. Is the there a way to mix any of the protocol/fungus killing stuff.. As there is a LOT of stuff w/ liquid to take!!

You can mx them in the following ways:

Borax can be mixed with any of the alkalizing remedies.

Drops of Lugols Iodine can be mixed, alone, with a solution Vitamin C.

Hydrogen Peroxide can be mixed with any of the alakalizing remedies without problems.

Always mix the Methylene Blue (if you decide to use it) with a solution of Vitamin C.

The Liver Support Protocols are normally taken all together just before or after mealtimes.

The niacin(or niacinamide) and B50 complex should also be taken at mealtimes together with the Liver protocol. Niacin works synergistically with both B50 complex and ALA for improved effect. ALA was once also regarded as part of the B Vitamins (as thioctic acid)

For more on this see Ted's List here: Remedy Combinations on EC

3. Isn't fungus/yeast always mutating or resistant? So.. Doesnt the protocol have to change every 5 days (so I hear)?

Both Iodine and Hydrogen Peroxide kill pathogens very quickly. These anti-pathogen nutrients work completely differently to antibiotics, they kill the pathogens -- including yeast/fungus -- very fast so no chance or opportunity for them to breed in resistance to these chemicals.

The five days on and two days off regimen is up to you.

For borax particularly -- the borax water must always be taken on a 5 days on, 2 days off basis.

4. Is taking a good probiotic ok? 5. Fermented foods ( Ive been hearing great stuff about it.. Trillions of good bacteria! )..

I would wait at least until you've been on the anti-candida protocol for a month before you take probiotics or pre-biotics because, initially, there may be alot of toxins from heavy metals as well as fungal die-off poisons that will be dumped into the intestines first. This is not beneficial for promoting good bacteria in the gut and which may take a little while to subside. But when the Herxheimer and detoxing effects eventually diminish and the intestines are clear of toxins then that would be the best time to start take the probiotics/prebiotics.

5. Will the fungus-killing stuff like borox and the MB kill GOOD bacteria?

I initially used both borax and MB as well as coconut oil for my own candida problems. Within two weeks my long term constipation problems reverted to normal dark brown healthy stools(from hard pale yellow stools). So obviously, this protocol was also beneficial for my own gut bacteria.

6. What about ingesting essential oils?

I am currently road testing essential pine oil on myself using coconut oil, castor oil or black seed oil as a carrier for the pine oil (all these carrier oils kill candida as well). I can't get the proper spirit of gum turpentine in the Philippines so I bought the essential pine oil (Pinus sylvestris) which is stronger than ordinary gum spirit turpentine instead.

There are two ways to use the pine oil. Either taken mixed with milk or water where the pine oil will be quickly absorbed into the blood from the stomach -- which will kill pathogens in the blood, detox the blood and help to purify the blood due to strong antioxidant action with little effect in the intestines. But if you have candida in the intestines you must take it with a carrier like sugar(see Jennifer Daniels article) or take it with a carrier oil to avoid direct absorption into the blood from the stomach and, instead, the carrier oil helps to carry the pine oil directly into the intestines where it rapidly acts to kill the candida yeast/fungus and other pathogens. I've also read that a man from Germany took pine oil or kerosene for his own candida problem and cured himself quickly of this disease. And when the doc checked his stool -- the candida was gone and healthy gut bacteria were present in the correct amounts. For more on the healing effects of pine oil -- see this research article by Walter Last.

Here is an article which shows how effective pine oil is against pathogens -- including candida:

http://www.imp.lodz.pl/upload/oficyna/artykuly/pdf/full/--04_09_Mercier.pdf

I currently am using 10 drops of this essential pine oil mixed with a teaspoon of carrier oil, twice a week as a preventative and tonic. I worked up to this dose slowly from an initial 2 drop dose.

7. Have you heard of parasites giving off a lot of yeast, or is it the yeast overgrowth that attracts the parasites?

Usually it is the parasite that infects first due to poor diet and poor digestion, with the bacteria and fungal pathogens piggy-backing on the parasites into our bodies. If you confirm a parasite problem then Hulda Clark's Parasite Protocol -- consisting of Wormwood, Cloves and Black Walnut extract -- is one of the best. This protocol also helps to kill fungus/yeast as well.

8. Isn't it possible to just get rid of parasites by eating REALLY good organic, alkaline, raw foods... Detoxing the kidneys, liver, colon, and blood... And stay on that for awhile? Won't they just 'leave'?

You might be able to get rid of some of your problems through diet but I think a multi-protocol approach that directly attacks the candida and all other bacterial co-infections, disrupts biofilms, detoxes the body andneutralizes mycotoxins, helps support the immune system and the liver together with a good healthy diet will stand a much better chance of being successful.

Many people with candida and other associated pathogen problems or bacterial co-infections very wrongly assume that if they can get rid of candida from their intestines then they will be cured. But candida is a dimorphic organism that can exist as both a yeast or a fungus -- two totally different biological forms of candida that have completely different structural, behavioural and locational forms. The yeast form is a saprophytic feeder -- it only feeds off dead organic matter but the fungal form is a proper parasite that feeds off the host itself. So if you have the fungal form -- this means that the fungal spores will have not only infected your intestines together with the yeast form but they will also be widely disseminated throughout your body -- fully capable of infecting the blood, tissues and organs with the fungal form of candida. So, if you have both the fungal form together with the yeast form of candida then this is particularly difficult to cure unless you use a sensible and wide ranging anti-candida protocol, including a good diet, that not only acts in your intestines but sufficiently acts throughout your body as well as acting to kill both the yeast and fungal forms of candida as well as killing all other bacterial co-infections which might also be involved. So this makes both the yeast and fungal forms of candida together with all other involved co-infections, extremely difficult to eradicate. To believe that candidiasis -- systemic candida -- is as easy to cure as the common cold is therefore a grave mistake.

Most people use the wrong approach or strategy to get rid of candida because they think its a simple disease or they think they are only infected with just the yeast form of candida or they think the problem is just in their intestines. Wrong thinking. In such cases, when people use anti-candida strategies that are too simplistic, ineffective or inappropriate -- what normally happens is that the candida may go away for awhile but it always comes back with a vengeance again and again. I have read this so many times on EC and on many other health blogs too."

04/24/2013: Shelly from Chicago, Il replies: "Hey Bill... More questions for you.. Sorry! I like to probe... it makes me more at peace! ;)

1. Is xylitol ok? Its in my liquid multi, cal/mag, and b-complex... its 3g of carbs per serving of each.
2. Will adding some antifungal herbs/teas to the regime, or rotating the pau d'arco tea be beneficial? I dont think my body is responding to the tea anymore.
3. Recently Ive been getting numbness in my feet and hands, esp during the night.. And tingling. I awoke in the morning 4 days ago, with a sharp needle-like pain in one place, and its been 4 days... Hasn't gone... Kinda hurts when I touch it. What could this be?
4. Good lab for parasite testing?? I felt FINE for a few weeks.. Then yesterday, out of nowhere, while ont he diet and protocol, I just felt "sick" again. Slightly feverish.. And malaise. My colon was doing something.. Thought I was gonna have the runs.. still feeling sick...=/ Does yeast stay undetected then show up or is this more parasite-like?
5. Hot peppers/spices...help with yeast/fungus/parsites?
6. What are mycotoxins?
7. What are mycobacteria?
8. Is MB safe to take everyday?
9. Does yeast cause palpatations/high bp? I used to get that a lot last yr.. and recently, a little bit.
10. Is pre-eclampsia related to fungal overgrowth? Thats what I had when I was pregnant.. or is it liver related?
11. What is the cause of IC? I want my bladder healed! Lots of white stuff coming out when I pee...=/
12. Lastly, can fungus/yeast be spread to others?

Thanks again for your time....=)!!"

04/24/2013: Bill from San Fernando, Philippines replies: "Hi Shelley... In answer to your questions:

1. Is xylitol ok? Its in my liquid multi, cal/mag, and b-complex... its 3g of carbs per serving of each.

Xylitol is anti-fungal and OK to use. As I've already said in other posts, I'm really against multi-vitamins and tablets for the most part because of the additives and that's why, wherever possible, I prefer to use the powder form. I just take Magnesium oil(Magnesium Chloride in water) 10 drops two or three times a day in a drink. My own dose of magnesium is high and is about 1500 mgs a day and I take no calcium - because we get more than enough calcium in our western food diets because everything is fortified with calcium these days. Taking calcium when you have candida also helps the fungus, makes it more virulent and helps it to spread. Foods containing Iron(red meats) will have the same effect. That's why calcium and red meats are banned in the anti-candida diet.

2. Will adding some antifungal herbs/teas to the regime, or rotating the pau d'arco tea be beneficial? I dont think my body is responding to the tea anymore.

I would continue with the Pau D'Arco tea as it has some wonderful protective effects on the body and intestines and it is strongly anti-fungal. Others that you can try are Cat's Claw and Black Seed Oil (Nigella sativa). Cat's Claw in the tea or capsule form, helps to protect and gently cleanse the intestines. It is also an immune booster, reduces cholesterol, kills viruses and it cleanses the blood and is anti-cancer. Black Seed Oil is a strong anti-fungal that is also highly nutritious and beneficial -- including many vitamins and minerals and 15 amino acids. The oils in Black Seed Oil have an omega 6 to omega 3 ratio that is very similar as flaxseed oil. Just take a teaspoon at every meal or use it on salads. More information on BS here.

3. Recently Ive been getting numbness in my feet and hands, esp during the night.. And tingling. I awoke in the morning 4 days ago, with a sharp needle-like pain in one place, and its been 4 days... Hasn't gone... Kinda hurts when I touch it. What could this be?

Just take niacin(500 mgs three times a day at mealtimes), B 50 complex(once a day at breakfast) and Alpha Lipoic Acid or ALA (300 mgs twice a day at mealtimes). Only the niacin (flush form) must be taken -- because the flushing effect is what you want -- indicating that your blood vessels are dilating. This helps in delivering the necessary nutrients to the peripherals of the body ie head, hands and feet which is where you have your neuropathy problems. To reduce the flushing effect you can take an aspirin half an hour before taking the niacin. The ALA and B50 will help repair nerve damage problems and the niacin helps to "unclump" thick blood which might also be a problem.

If your pins and neeles persists -- then use protease enzymes - bromelain and pancreatin enzymes are good ones but you can also use serrapeptase or nattokinase, which are more expensive, if you wish -- which should be taken outside mealtimes because you want these enzymes in your blood. Protease enzymes will help to remove blockages in your blood vessels caused by proteins at the peripherals of your body and these enzymes are also anti-candida.

4. Good lab for parasite testing?? I felt FINE for a few weeks. Then yesterday, out of nowhere, while ont he diet and protocol, I just felt "sick" again. Slightly feverish.. And malaise. My colon was doing something.. Thought I was gonna have the runs.. Still feeling sick... Does yeast stay undetected then show up or is this more parasite-like?

I'm afraid I can't recommend a good lab for parasite testing in ths US because I'm an English guy living in the Philippines. Sorry!!

The Herxheimer or die-off effect will certainly cause problems like you are having. This is a normal side-effect when you are fighting candida and yeast. The Herx effect, feeling nauseous and sick, is caused because of the high candida kill rate which tends to release high amounts of mycotoxins or toxic candida waste products into your intestines and into your blood all at once -- thus exacerbating your symptoms, stressing your liver and intestines with the quite natural effect of feeling sick. This is normal and should be expected whenever you use any successful anti-candida protocol. Detoxing heavy metals and other poisons like Fluoride and Bromide can also cause sickness and nausea for the same reasons.

To get these mycotoxins and heavy metals and other poisons out of your intestines more quickly(and avoiding re-absorption of these toxins back into the body via the colon) it is useful to take laxatives on a regular basis. Milk of Magnesia is my own favourite laxative. Take the laxative once every 4 days or once a week. This helps to push out the toxins and also helps to kill and clear the intestines of candida quickly.

5. Hot peppers/spices...help with yeast/fungus/parsites?

It is certainly true that herbs and spices like garlic, chilli, turmeric, fennel etc are also useful. But if I were you I would avoid spices for now since you seem to be already having considerable Herx and Detox reactions at the moment.

6. What are mycotoxins?

Mycotoxins are poisonous waste products secreted from yeast/fungus. Molybdenum or molybdate kills candida and also works to neutralize candida toxins in the body which tend to make people feel sick. Ted recommends taking molibdate or molybdenum at a daily dose of 10 mgs to 25 mgs for only two weeks. This will rapdly help to kill off the candida and also neutralizes the mycotxins as well, thus preventing the nausea and sickness. I have also recently included and explained the use of molybdenum or molybdate in my anti-candida protocols on EC.

It is difficult to buy Molybdenum at dosages above 900 micrograms(the maximum dose allowed by the RDA), so if you can't get the powder form of molybdate then just take the maximum RDA of 900 micrograms a day.

7. What are mycobacteria?

See this link.

8. Is MB safe to take everyday?

I have taken MB regularly without problems. Do not take lugols iodine on a daily basis together with MB -- they tend neutralize each other.

9. Does yeast cause palpitations/high bp? I used to get that a lot last yr.. and recently, a little bit.

Yes, palpitaions can be caused by both the Herx or candida die-off effect and by detoxing heavy metals and other poisons. Heart palpitations may also occur if you are just taking lugols iodine without the necessary companion nutrients (as advised in the Vitamins and Nutrient Support of my anti-candida protocols). Taking lugol's iodine, niacin and Magnesium chloride will aso help to lower bp.

10. Is pre-eclampsia related to fungal overgrowth? Thats what I had when I was pregnant.. Or is it liver related?

Preclampsia appears to be a mineral defficiency -- lack of magnesium. Doctors use magnesium sulfate (Epsom Salts) to cure it but I prefer to use magnesium chloride for its wider beneficial effects.

11. What is the cause of IC? I want my bladder healed! Lots of white stuff coming out when I pee...

You appear to have the fungal form of IC which might also include mycoplasma. The borax (as recommended in the anti-candida protocols) will kill the mycoplasma as well as the fungus and the lugols iodine, at the higher dosage recommended in the anti-candida protocol, as well as the Pau D'Arco and Cat's Claw, should also help you to resolve your IC problems.

12. Lastly, can fungus/yeast be spread to others?

Yes it can be spread to others."

05/04/2013: Shelly from Chicago, Il replies: "Just an update with me (and to you, Bill, a few more questions.. When you get the time??)... I seem to be doing better energy-wise, but am not taking all the protocol things. I had waaaay too much die-off. I also, am afraid of losing all my good bacteria. Is this an issue? Will the protocol cause me to lose some or all of it? Taking the probiotics from my ND seem to help a lot.. And I stopped feeling like my blood was full of yeast, right when I started to juice ( I have a really good juicer! ). I only juice: cucumbers, celery, lemons, kale, lettuce, a little carrot/beet, ginger, parsley, cilantro, and tumeric. I noticed much imporovement after juicing, and drink about 30 oz/day split up into 3x/day before meals. My questions:

1. Can juicing replace the alkalizing (BS & lemon)?? I feel its helping me much, and figure it has a whole lemon in it tons of enzymes & chlorophyll.. AND my TEETH are getting really sensitive to the lemon/acv!!! I have 2 teeth that are decaying as well.. so have to monitor this!!

2. I bought the Niacin (flush) vitamin in 1000mgs... And take that with my dinner... I cant really split it up. Is this problematic? I feel like this is whats causing the small "pinch/needle-like" feelings I get that linger.. I have about 4 of them now.

3. Instead of taking all these supplements, which I cant afford all the time, esp the ALA ($$$!! ), is there a way to get it in food???

4. My hair is STILL not back to what it should be, after falling out.. The lugols helped once I started taking it, but its still thin, esp in the front. I used to have THICK curly hair. Ive lost some curl, too =( Any suggestions about growing back hair! ?

5. Ive been getting more & more spider viens!! What is the cause! ? How do I make these STOP and REVERSE! ? Im 27!!! Oy.

6. Hormones. I need to balance my hormones. I cant tolerate heat very well... I get SO HOT at night! Also, libido is very low.. And still low energy. =( Ive been taking maca.. And the lugols iodine.. Anything else?

Thanks thanks thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!"

05/05/2013: Bill from San Fernando, Philippines replies: "Hi Shelly... The best time to take probiotics is after you have detoxed heavy metals and poisons and your body is clear. Once these poisons are eradicated from your intestines and your body then probioics will have a much more beneficial effect. Currently, all sorts of poisons, candida toxins and heavy metals are being dumped into your intestines so probiotics will not be effective because of these poisons in your intestines. Probiotics will, therefore not be so helpful until these poisons are completely eradicated from the body. Also, taking probiotics now may cause further die-off and or digestive problems when taken too early.

In answer to your questions:

1. Can juicing replace the alkalizing (BS & lemon)?? I feel its helping me much, and figure it has a whole lemon in it tons of enzymes & chlorophyll.. AND my TEETH are getting really sensitive to the lemon/acv!!! I have 2 teeth that are decaying as well.. So have to monitor this!!

Take the lemon/acv mixed with sodium bicarbonate as advised by Ted in his Alkalizing Remedies. Doing this helps you to avoid acid -- which, when combined with an acid food diet, is what is destroying your teeth. Bacteria can't eat tooth calcium, acid is what causes teeth to decay. I would continue both with the juicing but still take both the Sodium Bicarb plus water as well as take the alkaline form of lemon/ACV remedies as recommended by Ted. Also, I would stop adding lemon(citric acid) to your juicing to avoid the acid form. Juicing will certainly help to provide minerals and vitamins for the body and it is really up to you whether want to do this. The dosages of vitamins and minerals that I recommend in the protocol are very specific - particularly vitamin c, niacin, B vitamins, iodine, magnesium, alkalizing etc and are much higher orthomolecular dosages that would be well nigh impossible to achieve through diet.

2. I bought the Niacin (flush) vitamin in 1000mgs... And take that with my dinner... I cant really split it up. Is this problematic? I feel like this is whats causing the small "pinch/needle-like" feelings I get that linger.. I have about 4 of them now.

You can take niacin with meals -- this lowers the flush effect. But now, I tend to take 1000 mgs niacin 3 times a day but I take an aspirin dissolved in water twenty minutes before I take the niacin. Aspirin also opens up the blood vessels and so there is no flushing effect from the niacin when you take it after taking the aspirin. Magnesium Oil (magnesium chloride in water) - in larger dose -- with water, when taken before niacin, also helps to prevent or reduce the niacin flush for the same reasons. Taking niacin this way, outside mealtimes, also ensures that more niacin is absorbed into the body than if it is taken at mealtimes.

3. Instead of taking all these supplements, which I cant afford all the time, esp the ALA ($$$!! ), is there a way to get it in food???

Supplements, although not ideal, do allow you too regulate dosage amounts more precisely. If you tried to get these same orthomolecular dosage amounts through eating food, then these dosage amounts would be hit and miss -- not accurate. I am very suspicious of all food now -- even organic food is suspect in my own opinion.

4. My hair is STILL not back to what it should be, after falling out.. The lugols helped once I started taking it, but its still thin, esp in the front. I used to have THICK curly hair. Ive lost some curl, too =( Any suggestions about growing back hair! ?

Loss of hair can be caused for many reasons - the favourite being that candida fungus is attacking your scalp causing your hair to fall out. But hair loss can also be caused by low thyriod as well (also as a consequence of candida infections). If the outer rim of your eyebrows are hairless and your eyebrows appear too short in length then this may indicate that you may well have low thyroid as well as a fungal problem. The anti-candida protocol should both help to both kill the scalp candida as well as help to normalize your thyroid.

You can try topical remdeys like 5 drops of lavendar oil mixed with a teaspoon of VCO rubbed into the scalp. You can also try borax with 3% hydrogen peroxide in water left on your scalp overnight. But if none of these topical remedies work then your scalp infection has arisen from the candida infection in your blood and not from just an infection on the skin so that is why topical remedies won't cure it. I had tinea cruris or jock itch when I had systemic candida and I could not get rid of this fungal problem until after I got rid of my systemic candida(candida in the blood). Therefore curing this problem may take some time, so please be patient.

5. Ive been getting more & more spider viens!! What is the cause! ? How do I make these STOP and REVERSE! ? Im 27!!! Oy.

Taking protease enzymes(enzymes that digest dead organic proteins) in larger amounts helps to digest blockages in veins and capillaries. At the moment, I am taking pancreatic enzymes with added bromelain and papain enzymes twice a day (2 X 900 mgs doses) outsode mealtimes as a regular detox procedure. Protease enzymes are not toxic or poisonous. In Dr Gonazalez's Metabolic Protocol for cancer -- he recommends a daily dosage of between 130 -- 160 pancreatic enzyme tablets per day in his protocol. The pancreatc enzymes help to remove the dead organic proteins that may be blocking the capillaries causing swelling and spider veins. Using a 70% solution of DMSO topically (with aloe vera oil) will also help to dissolve the blockages in the capillaries. MSM, supplemented at 2,000mgs to 6,000 mgs a day should also help to clear spider veins. Avoid calcium or dairy in your diet -- as advised in the anti-candida protocol.

6. Hormones. I need to balance my hormones. I cant tolerate heat very well... I get SO HOT at night! Also, libido is very low. And still low energy. =( Ive been taking maca.. And the lugols iodine.. Anything else?

When you have low energy and a weakened immune system, then generally a weakened libido is the result. Again, you need to get rid of the candida, which is continually weakening your immune system with its own myctoxins, as well as build up the body with healthy nutrients. Supplementing borax and iodine as well as a proper anti-candida diet will greatly help to stabilize and balance your hormones(as advised in the anti-candida protocol).

An intolerance to heat would also seem to indicate a thyroid problem. To check if you have a thyroid problem, on waking up first thing in the morning you should use a basal thermometer to check underarm whether your body temperature is too high or too low. If your temperature is not 98.6°F then you probably have a thyroid problem."

05/14/2013: Kt from the USA replies: "Hi Shelly, I'm only posting this because you said you wanted more babies and would probably prefer to breast-feed. I worked full time until the day I delivered my first (left work early about 2 PM and had her at 9PM). I was told longer I breast-fed the better so when I went back to work I expressed during my breaks and at lunch so I could keep the baby on breast milk for a year. When my milk supply started to decrease, the nurse practitioner suggested pumping more more. I asked my immediate supervisor if I gave up my breaks and lunch (I would eat at my desk) could I pump every two hours. He approved it but continuously harassed me by asking me to give him the times I would be "doing that".

I kept her on breast milk for a year, got pregnant the next month (I was thirty-six and my clock was running out. I felt she had to have a sibling) then I was set up and terminated when I was five months pregnant with my second child for frequently being away from my desk and a decline in performance. DUH!!

The point I was trying to make was pumping more and drinking gallons of water kept up my milk supply even though working full-time and being harassed on the job. I drank the chlorinated city water and never had a problem with yeast or any of the multiple problems you shared. I drank water after every meal and after every time I pumped. Hope this gives you some hope! Where there is a will there is a way."

08/01/2011: Connie from Slc, Ut: "Hi Shifra ; I understand the pain you are having. It truly can make all life functions become impossible. I have tried so very many practices, especially dietary ones for pain, and while I fully support a nutrient dense diet including certain superfoods , made from scratch broths, and naturally fermented foods; I found that I was not recovering health without supplementation of B-12 (methylcobalamin). Without this supplement, I would be diapered in a wheelchair, with little of my 5 basic senses left. I would have no feeling in many areas of my body, and excruciating pain everywhere else. I'm sorry to put this so graphically, but I feel I must.

Now, the B12 will help most with pain, but it will take many months for this. Some places that are numb will begin to tingle as feeling returns. These areas will also become sensitive, temporarily, and some fleeting pain will be felt. I have found that increasing potassium also helps pain. Again, I fully support that one should try to get it in their diet as much as possible, but, I also supplement potassium. It also helps moods as healing progresses. I mix a powder of potassium gluconate, 250 mg. , into about 6 oz. of water. This can be taken once an hour for pain. I admit that sometimes I take 500 mg. in this way, but I do not recommend taking any more that this as a supplement, because side effects may occur that would be antithetical to healing. With food and vegetable juices, one can take many more mgs. of potassium than that, unless sodium is low. If that is the case, then I recommend adding sea salt to any food or supplement that may have too high a ratio of potassium to sodium and chloride. ( I think that may be why people may have a "detox". ) I have had pretty good results with amino acids such as tryptophan, and tyrosine. I have also had very good results with Peppermint oil, oil of Oregano, and DMSO. I sometimes take small amounts of them internally, but mostly transdermally. Someone may scold me, but I do put a rather heavy coat of peppermint oil on painful areas. Maybe these suggestions will allay pain until the B-12 heals it."

07/31/2011: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe replies: "Try starting your "wellness journey" with a small lick of Celtic Sea Salt every time you drink a glass of water (which should be more times a day than you do now, but don't overdo it)."

07/31/2011: Lanos from Socalif, Usa replies: "SHIFRA.. I am sorry you are in so much pain.. However your life is precious, and I'll bet you have some special qualities about yourself that bring joy to others.. Don't throw your life away because of pain.. Get help from somewhere, I could suggest you seek a friend, a relative, or a spiritual route that might help you move in the right direction.. Remember you are loved by God. Love yourself. I"ll say a prayer for you. Keep your chin up.. This site has some info on dealing with diet and pain issues."

07/31/2011: Debbie from Melbourne, Australia replies: "If I had multiple symptoms like you do I would be immediately taking sugar/processed foods out of the diet. No processed salt, only use Unrefined sea salt. Go on a green juice fast; wheatgrass included as well as Aloe Vera. I would be taking spirulina and chlorella as well as Chlorophyl. These will all detox the body. I would also be taking mega doses (maybe start off small) of Vitamin C. Also some Essential Fatty Acids (cod liver oil.. fermented is best).

Added to the above I would be taking ACV (1-2 tablespoons) in 8oz water per day.

Coconut oil

Raw honey

I would stay away from synthetic vitamins and try to stick with the "super foods".

Chicken broth is great for vitamins and minerals as well.

Stay away from diet drinks and MSG. Diet drinks usually contain aspartame which is poison to our bodies.

They say that health begins in the gut/digestion. I would be looking at my diet.

Would be helpful to know what your diet is like?"

07/31/2011: Shifra from Brookline, Ma replies: "Hi, thanks for the friendly response. I have not given up nor do I plan to to die, but I need help for the pain. If you know of what I could do please let me know."

07/31/2011: Shifra from Brookline, Ma replies: "Hi,

thanks for responding and I will take your suggestions, but it is the pain esp in my necka and shouders that is the worst symptom. I am in so much pain. do you know what I cud do for the pain.

I feel kind of drunk but my gait is not drunken. I feel like my balance is way off but it is not visible.

Thanks shifra"

08/01/2011: Maria from Gippsland, Australia replies: "Hi Shifra, To help break the pain cycle you could try dl-phenylalanine. It may take three to four weeks to start to see results but it really can help. For its theraputic benefits it must be taken on an empty stomache and wait 30 mins after taking it before eating. You can take it with a little juice or water. I found I needed to take it first thing in the morning and also late afternoon (I had been in servere pain for many years) after the pain was not noticable I continued for a while with only the am dose. Also some of the alkalizing remedies may help you with the pain, particularly muscle pain. With the fatigue as well it is hard to do much, but once the pain cycle is broken it is easier and you can think clearer. All the best, Maria"

08/01/2011: Shifra from Brookline, Ma replies: "hi, thanks for the advice. Are there any countra indications for taking dl-phenylalanine, I mean, is it a problem to take if you have certain medical condittions and also I take trazadone, nerontin, and effexor -which I am slowing coming off of- any bad interactions with thsoe meds as far as anynone knows?

Thanks, shifra"

08/01/2011: Rachel from Reinholds, Pa replies: "Did you consider testing for Lyme?

You may have a B defieciency like someone said. You should change your diet anyway. But many of your symptoms sound Lyme-like."

08/02/2011: Maria from Gippsland, Australia replies: "Shifra, Most of your symtoms could be side effects of the three meds you listed, unless you had all of the symptoms before you started taking them. I'm sure you realize that you need to be careful in weaning yourself off them especially if the neurontin was prescribed for seizures.

Neurontin's side effects - numbness of an arm or legs; clumsiness; dizziness; tiredness; weight gain; back pain.

Neurontin is sometimes used for Fibromyalgia, although when you look at its list of side effects maybe it can make it worse. Alpha lipoic acid can be a good alternative for Neurontin if it's for Fibromyalgia or diabetic issues. Scroll down to #5 at http://www.stopagingnow.com/liveinthenow/article/10-drugs-with-great-natural-alternatives

One of Effexor's side effects is a state of near sleep.

Trazodone's side effects include; drowsiness; mood swings; memory problems.

There can also be interreactions between effexor and trazodone when taken together because they both increase seratonin.

Here is a link for possible interactions with phenylalanine. http://mental-health.emedtv.com/phenylalanine/phenylalanine-drug-interactions.html"

08/02/2011: Sue Ellen from Los Angeles, Ca replies: "Your symptoms are textbook gout symptoms. Gout is when your body over produces uric acid and the excess forms crystals between your joints and under the skin. A diet high in trans fats, sugar and starches is very acid forming and will trigger gout in those who are predisposed to it as well as creating a climate where yeast and fungus thrive.

Eliminating sugar, starch and trans fats is a must for you to start to alkalize your system which should help considerably. In addition, drinking pitcher of water with a 1/2 cup of lemon juice and a 1/2 tsp of baking soda and taking a tsp of virgin coconut oil 4 times a day will relieve gout symptoms if it has not progressed to foar and should clear up the candida."

08/02/2011: Oscar from Syracuse, New York, Usa replies: "I also live in considerable constant pain resulting from an old, but severe gunshot wound to my abdomen that blew my right kidney and most of my liver and half my large intestine out my back. At times the pain seems very bad to me. The one thing that really does help is to cry like a baby for as long as I feel like it. This really does work. Sometimes I feel pretty good for 2 or 3 days after a good cry. I guess you could call it CRY BABY THERAPY. It does work, at least for me....Oscar"

08/02/2011: John from Plymouth, Ma. replies: "Hi Oscar,

There is a product out called "Go Out Plex. " It's made out of cherries... It is great for pain and inflamation... It's natural and not very expensive... Give it a try if your so inclined...

Good luck,

John from Plymouth"

08/03/2011: Shifra from Brookline, Ma replies: "hi,

I am going to check out the go out flex, thanks. I wonder if anyone has any ideas of what my condition may be- I have intense pain in my neck adn shoulders and also in back and sidea of my tummy. I feel crystaline stuff under my skin, kind so gravelliy and hard, and like under my skin is not smoothe, like it used to be this is most everywher under my skin- somenone said it might be gout, but its not in my toes or hands.

Also I am bone tired, sluggish with bad digestion adn numbness in legs and feet. Does anything dissolve the crystals? Also is anything good for suagar cravings- I am out of control with sugar and carbs and salt

Thanks"

08/04/2011: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe replies: "You might try ACV for cravings and stomach issues (i have found wine vinegar to do the same), but, contrary to what many are doing here: start small!!! I barely take 1/2 dropperful twice a day (with or without a pinch of baking soda) in a glass of water, and it seems to be helping for a number of things."

11/27/2011: Shybimbette from Evanston, Wy, Usa: "I'm just wondering about something that is on my foot. It started out months ago about the size of a head of a pencil. Looked at first like just a shoe rub. Now it's about the size of a quarter. And looks like a metal allergy. And it seems to come up when I get a sweet tooth. I've seen diabetic leg ulcers, and pictures of diabetic foot ulcers, and this doesn't look like that. When I put a bandage soaked with ACV on it overnight, it seems to subside, not heal, but subside, and when it does, I end up forgetting to follow through with the ACV on it at night. And then the next sweet tooth brings it back bigger.

Any ideas on what it could be, and how to get rid of it? I understand now, to stop the sweet tooth crap, I do ACV and water twice daily. Sometimes I oil pull, but it hasn't become a habit yet. Any input would be appreciated."

11/23/2011: Siju from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: "Dear Sir,

I am 31 years old man working in middle east, I have had piles(Hemorrhoids) since 2 years, and operated, now I have a severe problem. I have getting pain in hands, shoulder, legs, and below my backside. When this pain comes, I lose weight a lot, after some days when this pain disappears, I gain slowly, slowly weight, it means to normal what I had before. I went to doctors here. They say that, it's beacause of typing job, and strains, but this pain continues for week, and I lose weight a lot. I am afraid now, please advise me, what is the reason for this pain? It's just like killing me. Please advise what type of disease is this? and what is the available medicine for my disease?

siju"

02/17/2010: Stephane from Guangzhou, China: "Sir, i m a 38 years old male from cameroon livung in china , and now it s more then a year im suffering day and night from difficulty of swallow , headache, back pain , vibration , and joint pain . i have done a lot of medical examination , but nothing can be seen . please tell me what kind of supplement food or medecine i need. thanks and hoping a good response."

02/17/2010: Gtcharlie from Los Angeles, Calif, Usa replies: "I suspect you might have a severe Vitamin C deficiency. Suggest you to obtain a blood test on your Vitamin C to confirm it. Meanwhile, there is no harm done to take a meaningful dosage on this supplement (4000 mg is a good start)."

02/17/2010: Cindy from San Diego, Ca, Usa replies: "At the risk of sounding repetitive I would suspect candida, especially if all the medical tests have found nothing. Most people don't realize what a truly insidious disease systemic candida can be and how many different symptoms it can present. To determine for yourself if this is your problem, you can do a fast, easy test at home. First thing in the morning before you put anything in your mouth or brush your teeth, work up some saliva and spit it into a clear glass of water. After 30 minutes, look in the glass. If there are strings coming down from the saliva or if the water turned cloudy or with suspended cloudy specks, or if your saliva sank to the bottom you most likely have candida. Healthy saliva with simply float on the top of the water. Candida overgrowth begins in the colon. Over time as the yeast multiplies it begins to migrate through the digestive tract moving up until it reaches the mouth. Once this happens your saliva will sink because the yeast is heavier than water. No yeast and it will float. If you determine that you have candida, there are a number of cures on this wonderful site, plus some good commercial products you can find with a google search."

02/18/2010: Tricia from Ireland replies: "Hi Cindy, I would be interested in where you got this information on saliva. I tried your test this morn and I'm clear but I have always wondered why my saliva is bubbly like detergent bubbles so I'd like some more info. In my search for a cure for tonsil mucus my saliva was even commented on by the specialist but he had no idea why it happens - Im talkin' a lot of bubbles. The mucus and bubbles must be connected."

02/18/2010: Cindy from San Diego, Ca, Usa replies: "Not sure where this test originated, but directions for it are on a number of sites devoted to candida. Don't know what the significance of bubbly saliva is."

11/17/2010: Surulere from Bloomfield, Nj, Usa: "Ted, anyone. Folks, I need your help with the health issues that have been consuming my life for the past 6months. It started in March with extreme numbness in right and left leg two days after I had a deep tissue massage with a non register massager. It quickly went to burning sensation in my chest, back and arm. I was diagnosed with Myofacial pain (Muscle pain on the upper back). Did physical therapy and it seems to resolve the back and burning sensations. 5 months later the burning and tingling sensation as come back in triple fold. I try going back for another Physical Therapy session, I felt no relieve and my symptoms seems to get worse. All my blood work seems normal and I have managed to keep my blood pressure between 115 and 120. X ray indicated degenerated disk from my neck and and MRI shows no sign of brain tumor or anything. However, I have developed some symptoms along the way till now. I need help with the following

1. Anxiety attacks and daily panic attacks. I get attacks on any noise. That how bad it is.

2. Insomnia. I can go for days without sleep and when I do get sleep I get no less than 2 hours and once im up it all over.

3. Ear and Head noise. I think it triggered mostly by the back burning sensation and anxiety.

4. Lack of focus and depersonalization.

5. Upper Back, shoulder and neck pain. (Muscle Stiffness, soreness, spasm)

6. Feels tired all the time... I sit alot and I feel I and I lie down on the bed a lot thinking why, where and how did I go wrong.

Before all these issues I was a healthy 37 years old guy who works out and eat healthy. Now, the hospital seems like my favorite spot. I have been on 3 anti-depressant pills and anxiety pills. But to all honesty medication is not my forte. I get all the side effects that comes with them. The last medication I was on was Elavil. It helps with sleep but too many side effect. I quit cold turkey despite on small dosage. Not sure if the withdrawal symptoms makes my anxiety worse. I have lost my job due to all these madness and it seems I cant focus anymore at anything. My friends and loved ones are suffering as well. I desperately need help to get my life back as all these are taking a toll on me. Any suggestions and recommendations will be greatly appreciated. Thanks and I look forward to your responses."

11/18/2010: Candy from Fort Madison, Iowa replies: "You need some transdermal magnesium. It will help greatly with a lot of these issues. Trust me. It works. For your panic attacks you could also supplement with some phoshytidylserine. It's a natural supplement and it also works very well. Hope this helps."

11/18/2010: Rob from Manhattan, Ny replies: "SURULERE, sorry to hear of your failing health.. The follow are few things that may help, in addition to what others may suggest.

1. Make up an essential oil blend Bergamot, Lavender, Ginger, & Rosemary (into a carrier oil, almond). Rub this on the top of your neck at hair line and over
The right chest above armpit. This will relax and help lift your spirit, as well as a good anti-viral.

2. On earth clinic, you will see the mini beet protocol, try it for a while. Beet juice (high in nitrates) helps relax you & blood vessels to increase blood flow to the brain.
http://www.webmd.com/brain/news/20101103/beet-juice-good-for-brain?src=RSS_PUBLIC" target="_blank"> http://www.webmd.com/brain/news/20101103/beet-juice-good-for-brain?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Asparagus is a great liver detox... (Journal of Food Science)

3. The Herb Gotu Kola has some proof in calming the startled response... (our reaction to loud noises) Will help with brain focus, anxiety.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11106141
http://www.home-remedies-digest.com/gotu-kola.html"

11/18/2010: Ginger Cat from Lancaster, Ca replies: "Your problems could be related to a spinal misalignment from the massage, believe it or not. There are other things that could also be causes, but if you are sure it began immediately after the massage, then it could be that your hip joints are partially misaligned in the tailbone area, causing severe pinching of nerves that radiate throughout the body. If either the very end of the spine or the very top of the spine under the skull are out of alignment, even a little, it can created a system wide disturbance, that is like being electrocuted on an ongoing basis. If physical therapy fixed it for a time, then I really suspect an alignment issue, perhaps coupled with some disc degeneration reducing the spaces between vertabrae. A good physical therapist should train you in at-home exercises to strenghen muscles and ligaments..... Ask for MICRO building exercises, not macro muscle exercises, as often it is very tiny muscles controlling the bottom of the spine and it's alignment. If these type of strengthening exercises are indicated, you should do them twice a day, everyday, to bring it all back in functionality.

Be patient, it can take several weeks to months to retrain the body, and have it quit responding to the initial event..... Muscle and tissue have a long memory, where trauma is concerned and you need to coax them back into correct operation gently and persistently. Drugs will only mask your problems.... I would urge you to stay away from them. If seeking correct alignment doesn't work, then you should consider looking at an undetected pathogen that could be causing the same syptomology. There are many candidates to investigate: mycoplasma infections, Lyme disease, Fibromyalgia, Valley Fever, parasite infections of all kinds, etc. Start with the most logical, first the spine issue, then proceed to next level if no releif. Look at all possible causes, your area you live in, any recent "flu-like" illness you have had, any insect bites out of the ordinary, etc. Do your homework, be vigilant.... There ARE answers and help out there. Good Luck!"

11/18/2010: Anon from Been There Before!, Usa replies: "Sounds like you are having the classic withdraw symptoms from coming off the medicine. Please be assured there is light at the end of the tunnel but it will take a little time to work through it. I went through the same after coming off Lexapro. Lack of sleep, head noise, vertigo, anxiety, depression, all of it.

Its rather a lengthy read but I'll keep it to the point and I hope I can make sense here without causing further anguish for you as I know its difficult to deal with. But this is my experience. As explained to me by a pharmacist, all of this this is common as your body is going through chemical and emotional changes. The medicine causes the brain to reduce the amount of melatonin it produces, which is what helps us go to sleep. The medicine was providing that for you and your body will realize it needs to produce more since it isn't being provided for any longer. Unfortunately, it doesen't happen as quickly as we like it to. Therefore, you need to retrain yourself to sleep. The pharmacist suggested I try an over the counter sleep aid. I started with melatonin supplements but the dreams were way too bad. I turned to a store brand sleep aid with acetophamin. I had my concerns about becoming dependent on them because I was convinced this would be the way it was going to be. After 3 days with about 2 hours total sleep, I would take one sleep aid tablet. Then took another one the next night. Then, I took nothing unless I was desperate and had been awake for a couple days.

In about a months time, I began sleeping on my own and staying asleep all night. Furthermore, a lack of sleep will contribute to you being tired, fuzzy minded, tight muscles and spasms. Its kind of like your body is in a defense mode because of sleep deprivation, all your senses are 'waking up' and perhaps you are feeling emotions you hadn't been feeling. I don't know about you but it hit me like a brick wall! Its a lot to go through. I describe the post med anxiety and depression are there because everything that was triggering you to begin with is still a sore subject for you. You didn't feel all that while you were on the meds, did you?

I adapted to my issues and all became ok when I was on the med. I was really disappointed realizing the medicine didn't 'fix' my problems. How could they? I had to resolve my issues in order for it to improve. The head noise and vertigo took a while to get past. I still get it from time to time but not like before. I noticed that when I experience anxiety, thats when it hits me the worst and I describe it like the fuzz sound of a radio that isn't tuned to a station. I have a bad habit of over thinking everything when I first wake up and my day would go about with the noise. Its really aggravating and I sympathize for you.

So now, instead of conquering everything in my mind when I first wake up, I focus on conversations on morning shows. Weird, but it helped me. Another big help for me was exercising. It helped me to release my negative thoughts and energy and I became a lot more focused and happier. As you say, "I lie down on the bed a lot thinking why, where and how did I go wrong. " Its all too familiar. Maybe instead of looking backwards, you should look forward. What ever happened is done and you can only change which path you choose to travel down. Unfortunately, you will grieve for that part of your past life but you need to come to some level of acceptance/responsibility for YOUR actions in whatever happened. And at that point for me, is when I began to pick myself up. All is not lost. You just have to find it! Wishing you the best..."

11/19/2010: Addy from Fb, Ga replies: "Seven years ago to the week, I went through the pretty much the same thing you describe after a chiropractic adjustment. Doctors weren't able to diagnose me with anything and assumed it was all in my head and put me on anti-anxiety medication. Chiropractors are usually on the defensive side for their profession and 2 have denied any relation between what happened and the therapy I had the night before. I have come to my own conclusion of vertebral artery dissection; which can happen after chiropractic or massage therapy. The attack which happened is that of a Transient Ischemic Attack. However, being young (32) and healthy, the VBA is what made sense because of the spinal manipulation therapy (the night before) where TIA happens due to health conditions such as high cholestoral.

If you speak with your doctor about this, I would be interested in getting an update on your situation. I've been to several doctors but they all think its in my head. Even though I've come a long way with this, I would love to be back to my old self again one day. I would interested in any feedback from Ted."

11/19/2010: Surulere from Bloomfield, Nj, Usa replies: "Folks, thanks alto for all the input. Very informative and quit interesting. Anon, you hit the nail on the wall. It all started during a very stressful time in my life 100%. At the same time I was very physical at the gym. Stronger than ever been because I changed my diet to more healthy choices. Then, I noticed that when I worked out more, my muscle did'nt get muscle pump like I used to. I did lots of pull ups and push ups before my regular workout. I must have over stretch the muscles I believe but I cant say if it the massage that triggers the entire issue or the stress related factor. What difficult is to differentiate if the original issue was emotional(stress) or Physical pain. I have stayed away from the gym. I walk as much as I can but I get tied from fatigue. Below is the summary result from my MRI in April 2010

1. Multilevel degenerative disc disease with straightening of normal cervical lordosis.

2. There is a right paracentral/foraminal disc protrusion at C3-4
3. Left paracentraldisc protrusionnat C-4-5
4. AT C6-7 there is a right paracentral disc protrusion as well
5. At C5-6 there is a posterior disc osteophyte complex and there is mild moderate right sided foraminal narrowing secondary to uncovertebral joint arthropathy. MRI of the brain proves to be normal.

Some relieve.. I get some relieve from doing something physical or socially active. The entire anxiety/panic attacks double a month after I stopped the Elavil which I took for a month and quit cold Turkey due to the side effect sometimes in late August. I want to embark on a holistic and straight regimen to alleviate whatever this nasty anxiety is. I took too much negative information and let it stick in my brain. I have to reverse it.

Today, is ok. Less anxious because of the positive feedback I'm getting from you folks. Please folks keep them coming. Thanks, and truly appreciate all suggestions and recommendations from the bottom of my heart!"

09/01/2010: Susan from Great Neck, Ny Usa: "I have been suffering with tailbone pain since March. There was no obvious reason for this. Perhaps a few weeks of pretty bad constipation before the pain started? Not sure. Acupuncture, chiropractic, osteopathy have not helped. The spine specialist says there is an inflammation & wants me to take naprosin & then prilosec for the acid reflux it will surely stir up. I have been successfully using ACV & baking soda for 3 years and have kept all acid reflux symptoms at bay. I am frightened to take the naprosen & prilosec.... My goal is to live medication-free. I am 67 years old & in excellent health otherwise. I am not able to sit, have to use a special pillow & just want this problem to heal. Checking this site, I've read about turmeric. I started taking 450 mgs of turmeric with bromelain twice daily... So far, no relief. Does anyone have any experience or suggestions. How much turmeric, how often, etc? Thanks, Susan"

09/01/2010: Chiro from Milwaukie, Oregon replies: "The pain you describe sounds like hypertonic muscles or adhesions/shortening in the lower pelvic muscles and ligaments. This can be released by a massage therapist or by sitting on a racket ball or tennis ball. Both are uncomfortable at the time of treatment but do provide great relief."

09/01/2010: Linda from Snohomish, Wa replies: "Regarding tailbone pain: I had the same thing a few years ago. Getting a firm mattress solved it for me, in addition to going to a chiropractor and yoga. For me, I think this was more of a musculo/skeletal issue for me rather than an all-over internal thing. I hope this is helpful, peace."

11/18/2011: Patricia from Hanover, Ontario Canada: "In response to Tamra regarding her daughters mystery symptoms. I also had a family member who went overseas and came back with many of the same symptoms. She was tested many times for parasites and nothing was found, but from what I know of parasites especially ones North Americans are not used to testing for they are extremely difficult to detect as they can bury into your tissue and in effect "hide". Since returning, this family member has gone from @190lbs to less than 120lbs which is below the weight she was as a teanager. She developed many digestive and neurological issues and now she is developing problems with her cardiovascular system. The point is don't give up on parasites potentially being the culprit. Good luck"

11/18/2011: Gavin from Manganui, Northland, New Zealand replies: "It sounds like a good vermafuge might be well worth checking out... Wormwood with garlic usually does the trick- it's not nice but kills any critters that shouldn't be in the gut. It might be useful to try a wormer from the chemist first."

11/18/2011: Carie from Hudson, Oh replies: "I had many of these symptoms as your daughter. Had the "bulky" uterus which doctors removed, constipation, distended abdomen, etc. which later progressed into more health issues. I did a parasite cleanse thru a health store and could not believe the stuff that came out! My husband and I have been travelers for years and he also travels for work. My husband had begun having intestinal issues so he also did the cleanse. Most of my issues have cleared up as well as my husbands. If your daugter does a parasite cleanse, her husband should also do one or they will just keep passing stuff back and forth."

07/21/2012: Mopey from Portland, Or replies: "I've traveled to several countries last trip we took was in 2010 that was 2 years ago, Symptoms : fever, chills, abdomen pressure lightheadness. small bumpy rash neck pain all of sort of like having the flu every other day Going on the 11 month mark I have a herd of doctor working for me :Every GI Test imaginable- negative, all blood test- negative, ALCAT food allergy test, OBGYN all negative I had very organ in my abdomen CAT scanned, they even scanned my lungs negative, I'm hate exposure to xray but I have to do it. Everything was negative Parasite check negative still waiting for second round of parasite checks. Negative lymes disease check negative, SIBO small intestinal bacterial overgrowth hydrogen breath test was POSITIVE and I had a bladder infection no symptoms I took the antibiotics, but it did not work, I will try it again but I think it is something else. My next stop is an infectious disease specialist. Anyhow This is what helped me sea salt water and fresh lemon, peppermint tablets, tons of raw garlic and berberine, drink ginger tea, drink lots of ginger water to wash out the bacteria and eat probiotics. Take wormwood, and gse for parasites, 3 x aday skip dinner it is too much drink ginger water to get rid of the bacteria."