Comprehensive Guide to Treating Chronic Lyme Disease and Co-infections in Minnesota: Evidence-Based Herbal Protocols

Dr. Kyle Warren, Functional Medicine

 Stacie, Dr. Kyle Warren's patient shares her Lyme story

"I feel old before my time" were Stacie's words to Dr. Warren when she first came to see him. 
She was suffering for 4 years before finally finding proper care under Dr. Warren. 

In this video, Dr. Kyle Warren sits down with Stacie, a patient who successfully recovered from chronic Lyme disease and multiple co-infections after years of struggling with persistent symptoms.

Despite previous antibiotic treatments, Stacie continued to experience debilitating symptoms including neuropathy, skin issues, and chronic inflammation that significantly impacted her quality of life for four years. Through Dr. Warren's comprehensive approach that addressed not only Lyme disease but also common co-infections Babesia, Bartonella, and Anaplasma, Stacie was able to regain her health and vitality!

Stacie shares her journey from feeling old before her time to becoming healthy enough to care for others and fully participate in life again. Watch as Stacie and Dr. Warren discuss the challenges of proper diagnosis, the importance of treating co-infections, and how Stacie was able to reclaim her life and become... "me again!" 

Click below to watch:

Stacie's message to other Lyme patients:

"To anyone struggling with Lyme disease and feeling lost in a maze of symptoms – I've been where you are. For years, I lived with constant inflammation, neuropathy, skin issues, and a feeling of being 'old before my time.' Despite multiple rounds of antibiotics, I wasn't getting better; in fact, my symptoms were snowballing. What changed everything was discovering that I didn't just have Lyme – I had multiple co-infections that were being missed, and they needed a different approach. Finding a practitioner (Dr. Warren) who used a whole-body functional medicine approach rather than just focusing on antibiotics made all the difference. It wasn't an overnight cure... it took time, but gradually, I went from wondering what new symptom each day would bring, to feeling like myself again! The journey taught me that health isn't just magical, or bestowed upon you; it's something you can work toward with the right support. Please believe that healing is possible. Trust yourself, find a team that listens and explains the science behind your treatment, and know that you can be healthy again. Hang in there – you are not alone, and there is hope on the other side of this!"

{Conversation between Stacie and Dr. Warren on Lyme and Co-infections}
Stacie's personal story, in her own words:

Stacie: "I started seeing you about four years after I had originally been diagnosed with Lyme and treated with antibiotics. I just wasn't feeling well. I continued to have occasional patches of breakthrough bullseye rash.

It seemed like whatever pains my body was prone to, there was something augmenting them and blowing them out of proportion. Inflammation kinds of things in my hip or my neck. And I had a lot of skin issues that were coming up.

There were like, I'd get little blisters. It could be anywhere on my body. And I also had like a, kind of like this heat rash or eczema kind of thing that would come on.

And it was hard to know if it was like, is this autoimmune? Like, what are all these things that are happening to me?"

Dr. Kyle Warren: In your paperwork, I was reviewing this, because you need to grade this. And you put down, I feel old before my time, Dr. Warren. 

Stacie: Why is my body doing this to me? And so right before I saw you, I was experiencing was like a neuropathy and it felt like there were fireworks going through my lower legs and my forearms. It started out with my lower legs.

And then when it started going into my arms, then I started getting more concerned, but I was getting lower extremity swelling. It felt like the bottom of my feet were round. So it was kind of affecting my mobility and my ability to engage in all the things that I like to do.

It would happen a lot in the evening. And then that really impacted my sleep. I did see many practitioners along the way, PTs and massage therapists and acupuncturists.

I saw a GI doctor because my digestion wasn't good.

Dr. Kyle Warren: And then we ran testing on you, because you came to me already knowing it was Lyme. We were at that point. And then we found, I think, three co-infections on you, if I'm remembering correctly.

We found Babesia, Bartonella and Anaplasma.

Stacie: Correct.

Dr. Kyle Warren: So when we combined that with Lyme, we were really dealing with four infections in you, driving all your symptoms. Despite years of antibiotics, right?

Stacie: Yeah, I went through that a second round right before I saw you. And somewhere in the middle of that process, someone had read my history and actually ordered a Lyme test and found that I was testing positive for Lyme again. Then when I saw you, I learned about the co-infections.

And I kind of was flabbergasted that one of the co-infections could be responsible for all of the neuropathy that I was feeling. And here I was feeling like this neuropathy was gonna be part of my life forever. And then to just have a hope that this could possibly be causing it, and we might be able to do something about this.

Dr. Kyle Warren: And this is what we find all the time. We find these co-infections and that it's not just Lyme alone.

93% of the time, it's a combo (of Lyme & co-infections). Okay, so we started, we figured that out and started with you. When did you start feeling things?

Because your tests started getting partially better within our first time we retest. Some of them changed, but not all of them, right? On our first test, I think we retested at like six or seven months into your program.

Stacie: Yeah, well, most importantly for me was that neuropathy. And within six months, the neuropathy, it wasn't occurring. Like occasionally I might have a small tingle or something like that was a really, I knew I was on the right path because that changed.

So that was initially. And then I think after a year, I was feeling pretty good. I would still have some occasional breakthrough skin issues.

And I still felt like my endurance could improve. I was still kind of feeling a little overwhelmed at times, a little lack of resilience. But then after two years, okay, this is how I remember myself being.

This is how I remember health, feeling able to think a little more clearly. I could multitask. I was able to engage in a more active lifestyle.

I had the energy.

Dr. Kyle Warren: You were a little on the long side. Two years, but you also got some progress right away. I think two things got better...

If I remember right, the Bartonella and the Babesia got better in six months. Those looked much better, but the Anaplasma was still a big problem. And this is what's hard when someone comes with four things is I never know what order your body will do it in.

And so you kind of were both; you were better fast relatively six months, with the neuropathy- we were really excited! But it still took probably another year for you to really be back to your normal self.

Somewhere between a year and a half and two years, you started giving me that like, "man, I'm feeling pretty good!" Kind of back to when you remember being healthy, right?
(end of part I)

Test Results on Co-infections, showing Stacie's progress over time:

BABESIA

BARTONELLA

ANAPLASMA

Without proper testing, there's no way to track your progress with each co-infection. In Stacie's case, her markers for Anaplasma increased, then decreased after six months of following Dr. Warren's protocol! Each additional co-infection requires specific adjustments to your protocol.

(Conversation continues...)

Stacie: Right. There was only one side effect that I experienced during that whole time. And I had had a long standing toenail fungus on one of my feet and it healed, it got better.

I no longer have that. And that had been something that was just like an accepted part of my life that I had that. And it was just, that was the best side effect I've ever gotten from any course of treatment that I've done before.

Dr. Kyle Warren: And that's one reason I really like doing the herbs is I think they're just not as toxic as doing these high dose antibiotic therapies, that create yeast infections and some other issues. So I think once it's chronic and once it's in your nerves, I'm really convinced that the herbal protocol is really the best, the most effective and the least toxic at the same time.

Because we didn't do more antibiotics. You'd already done quite a bit, we didn't do more.

Stacie: No, and that was something that was a priority for me. That was something that was important to me because I had gone through a couple different courses of antibiotics and it wasn't helping. It would help maybe for a short time, but then things would kind of snowball again.

And so it was important to me to find a practitioner that wasn't going to necessarily focus all of the treatment on the antibiotics. I felt like with your treatment, you listened and you understood, which was really important, but then you gave me options and you showed me the research. Like, here's the research.

It just allowed me to really trust the treatment and knowing that I'm not crazy for having all of these things happening and stuff.

Dr. Kyle Warren: That's something for many people, I think because they've been to so many doctors and Lyme's considered "controversial," even though there's more research on it now than there's ever been, people are still two thirds more likely to have a doctor dismiss them and say it's all in their head than to find that it's Lyme. And for you particularly also, we try to highlight it's not just Lyme, it is these co-infections, Bartonella, Babesia, and for you particularly Anaplasma was a huge part of actually getting you better. And one of the reasons, actually probably the biggest reason I'm convinced some of the people who were trying to help you before were actually over-focused on the Lyme and were missing some of the co-infection pieces.

I think these co-infections was what was keeping, protecting the Lyme and really preventing you from healing with some other protocols was that they did not see or emphasize how these co-infections really interplay and protect Lyme. So you can't, so despite trying to get the Lyme since they didn't have the co-infection piece, it didn't work for you previously.

Stacie: The other thing that was a difference for me was that it was like a whole body approach. And we looked at nutrients, we looked at sleep, exercise, lifestyle, and not just, you know, looking at nutrients in a casual way, but like which of these are really getting in your body and working and what is that balance in there? It gave me a much clearer picture of my health.

You know, as I'm getting older and stuff, my health can be more complicated, but to actually have like a clear picture of what was going on, it just, the biggest thing was that it gave me faith that I can be healthy. That it wasn't just, you know, a magical thing that's bestowed upon you. It was like, there are things that we can look at and that we can work with.

And now I believe that I can be healthy. Yeah.

Dr. Kyle Warren: Yeah. Part of helping with Lyme is trying to 'attack the bugs' while trying to help your immune system. But some of it's just trying to help your body be healthier and get the raw materials so your body can repair and function for nerves and mitochondria, etc., etc.

And that's a big part with everybody, but also with you, because you'd been sick, how many years, Stacey, were you sick from? When did it start? I know it was a long time...

Stacie: Yeah. It had been four years. And then, you know, a couple of years of going through the healing process with you.

So it was a big chunk of time and lots of things, you know, were happening in life as they do.

Dr. Kyle Warren: Yeah. Life doesn't stop!

Stacie: No, it doesn't stop. And I found myself becoming a caregiver for my mom and I am me again.

Dr. Kyle Warren: You know, that's really our goal, is that you're healthy enough to go live the parts of life that you're called to go do.

Stacie: During that whole process that I was working with you, I did feel supported as well, because there were videos that you would send out that were educational, growing my understanding of what I, you know, was working with and just your support staff in the office. It was made easier for me, you know, to get my supplements. And, you know, if I had any issues, they were, everything was dealt with promptly.

And I felt like the channels of communication were always open!

Dr. Kyle Warren: I am so thankful to have some amazing staff that really help. Because we found... some of it's the doctoring, but some of it's just the logistics of, getting communication back to you in a timely way and keeping it organized and troubleshooting any problems if they should arise once again in a timely way. And so that's a very important part of helping people get better!

Stacie: I knew what was going on every step of the way. So it was nice to have those options.

Dr. Kyle Warren: One of my goals is that I think if you understand it, it becomes less confusing and it becomes less scary and people are more successful. So we think at least learning the basics and learning the concepts help people follow- through better. When (patients) don't know... there's more fear.

We think just knowledge helps you make better choices.

Stacie: I also felt like I was part of a team. Like I felt like we were working together. I wasn't just being treated.

I participated in all of it. And it was something that we were doing together.

Dr. Kyle Warren: And- Yes, because you are the expert of your own body. So I need your input to be successful because everyone's protocol is a little different. The concepts are there for everyone, but I need to go in, how do you feel with this?

And how do the tests change? And how do your symptoms change? Because if we're not, if we're just doing a standard protocol and we're not adjusting it for each person, I don't think we're gonna get the same results.

And that's where we take the basic concepts of a protocol to help you, but then we have to go, "okay, and how's it working in Stacey?" And what adjustments do we have to make for you? And I think if you're not doing that as a doctor, it's more difficult (to be effective).

We tell people "one-size-fits-one." Yeah, so we need this. You take the basic concepts, but you really have to make sure you're customizing it for the one person in front of you.

And I felt like that was our goal with you. And I'm so glad now to be seeing you healthy and living life!

Stacie: Yeah, yeah, for sure.

Dr. Kyle Warren: Well, thanks so much for sharing this. Is there anything else you'd like to share with people who are maybe sick and seeing this and just feeling down that they're unwell? Anything you would like to say to them?

Stacie: Hang in there. There can be health along this journey that it really is possible. And just believe in yourself and work with Dr. Warren. Things can truly, truly, truly get better. 

Dr. Kyle Warren: Thank you so much, Stacey.

Stacie: Thank you. All right, appreciate it! Thanks, Dr. Warren!

Key Take-aways from Stacie's Story:

1. Stacie's Initial Condition and Symptoms Varied - most Lyme patients have varying symptoms...

Stacie came to Dr. Warren about four years after her initial Lyme diagnosis and multiple antibiotic treatments. Despite those antibiotic treatments, she continued experiencing various symptoms:

- Recurring rash
- Inflammation issues: "It seemed like whatever pains my body was prone to, there was something augmenting them and blowing them out of proportion."
- Skin problems: "I'd get little blisters. It could be anywhere on my body. And I also had this heat rash or eczema kind of thing."
- Fatigue: "I was tired a lot. I felt like I wasn't resilient."
- Neuropathy: "It felt like there were fireworks going through my lower legs and my forearms."
- Swelling in lower extremities: "It felt like the bottom of my feet were round. So it was kind of affecting my mobility."
- Sleep disturbances due to physical discomfort
- Digestive issues

Stacie experienced persistent inflammatory symptoms, neuropathy ("fireworks" in limbs), skin issues, and extreme fatigue despite initial antibiotic treatment, making her feel "old before her time."  

Note: Keep a detailed symptom journal noting when symptoms occur, their severity, and any patterns you notice, as this information will be invaluable to practitioners who can recognize Lyme patterns.

2. Testing and accurately diagnosing the co-infections made all the difference for Stacie

After years of suffering, testing revealed Stacie had not only Lyme disease but three co-infections (Babesia, Bartonella, and Anaplasma) that were preventing full recovery.  

Stacie expressed surprise about these findings: "I learned about the co-infections. And I was flabbergasted that one of the co-infections could be responsible for all the neuropathy that I was feeling."

*Dr. Warren emphasizes that 93% of Lyme cases involve co-infections, which often protect the Lyme bacteria and prevent healing when not properly addressed.  

Note: Request comprehensive tick-borne disease panels that test for co-infections, not just standard Lyme tests, and consider seeking practitioners who specialize in tick-borne illnesses.

3. Antibiotics aren't always enough

Multiple rounds of antibiotics failed to resolve Stacie's condition, leading her to seek alternatives that would be less taxing on her system.  

Note: If you've undergone antibiotic treatment(s) without full resolution, discuss with your provider whether a different approach might be more effective.

4. Herbal protocols can be effective

An herbal protocol proved more effective and less toxic than continued antibiotics for Stacie's chronic Lyme and co-infections.  

Note: Research practitioners who offer evidence-based herbal protocols for tick-borne illnesses, and ask about their success rates and approach to herb safety and quality. 

5. Whole-body approach is crucial

Dr. Warren's protocol addressed not only the infections, but also nutrients, sleep, exercise, and lifestyle factors for a comprehensive healing approach.  

Note: Seek practitioners who evaluate your entire health picture, including nutrition, sleep quality, stress levels, and immune function, rather than focusing solely on killing infections.

6. Recovery takes time

Stacie saw improvement in her worst symptoms (neuropathy) within 6 months, felt "pretty good" after 1 year, and fully returned to her "normal self" between 18 months to about 2 years.  

Note: Create a healing timeline with your practitioner that includes realistic milestones, and celebrate small improvements rather than expecting immediate complete recovery.

7. Unexpected benefits may occur

A long-standing toenail fungus that Stacie had accepted as permanent, unexpectedly cleared up during her protocol. 

Note: Document all health changes during treatment, even those seemingly unrelated to Lyme, as they may provide important clues about your body's healing response.

8. Patient education empowers healing

Understanding the science behind herbal protocols reduced fear and helped Stacie actively participate in her recovery journey.  

Note: Ask your practitioner to explain the science behind recommended treatments, request educational resources, and become knowledgeable about your condition to take an active role in decisions.

9. Full recovery is possible

Even after years of illness, Stacie was able to regain her health, becoming "me again," capable of caring for others and enjoying life.  

Note: Connect with Lyme recovery success stories through support groups or online communities to maintain hope and gather practical insights from others who have navigated similar journeys. It is important to believe that you're able to take back control of your health, with the right support!

The Core Message: Chronic Lyme disease is complex, but recovery is possible. Be your own advocate and never lose hope! 

Message from Dr. Kyle Warren

"If you're struggling with persistent symptoms from Lyme despite antibiotic treatment, please know that what you're experiencing is real, not "all in your head," and recovery is possible. In my experience treating countless patients, like Stacie, I've found that Lyme rarely travels alone.
93% of cases involve co-infections like Babesia, Bartonella, and Anaplasma that protect the Lyme bacteria and prevent healing, when not addressed. 

For chronic cases, an herbal protocol combined with a whole-body functional approach that looks at nutrients, sleep, exercise, and your unique needs can be more effective than continued antibiotics. 

While recovery does not happen overnight. Most patients seeing improvement in severe symptoms within six months and returning to their normal selves between 1-2 years—healing happens in layers with the right support. 

I encourage you to seek practitioners who listen, explain the science behind their approach, and view you as a partner in your healing journey, because you deserve to feel like yourself again and reclaim your energy, clarity, and purpose in life. I would be happy to connect with you to see if we're a good fit and help you finally reclaim the health you once had!"

~Dr. Warren

Wondering about Lyme or other tick-borne  co-infections?
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This is what clients have said about the Restorative Health Solutions Team
See our testimonials...
             Having been seeing Dr. Kyle since March, he has given me a life back after being diagnosed with Lymes in 2015. He's compassionate, a true wealth of knowledge and takes a multiple step process when working with his patients. I cannot say how much he has changed my life for the better!"

-Lori Paul
             Impressive, Smart, Top Notch. I have nothing but good things to say about my experience at RHS. From my initial appt to my follow up. Dr. Kyle and Dr. Paul were great to work with and both encouraged me to better health through testing, exercises and education. Also their support staff Katie and Randi are wonderful as well. Prompt, courteous, and always available for questions! I highly recommend RHS! Cheers to better health."

-Tara Schwagmeyer
             I have been seeing Dr Warren for a few years and he has improved my health and my life greatly. I have many health issues and had been diagnosed with chronic fatigue 8 years ago, after I had to leave my career. I tried almost every traditional medical specialist and even a few naturalpathic specialist without any continued improvement in health. Most told there was nothing wrong with me. Dr. Warren has taken the time and done a vast amount of research to help me with autoimmune, thyroid, chemical sensitivities, and even my gallbladder. He truly cares, takes the time to hear you and your health challenges, and is always willing to try additional routes. I am back working and able to have a fulfilled life again! I am so thankful to have the best doctor!" 

-Erin Harty
             I arrived at Restorative Health Solutions feeling extremely fatigued, had brain fog and not a high quality of life. I was just getting through the day. After being treated I now have energy and a sense of well-being. I feel like I am now being proactive on having a healthy life. I am grateful for having found Restorative Health Solutions." 

-T Lancello
             I have been seeing Dr. Kyle and Dr. Paul for about 10 months now for Lyme disease. Prior to this, I was searching high and low for answers and getting no where. I was feeling fatigued, brain fog, stomach issues, anxiety, light sensitivity, dizziness... just a multitude of symptoms that I couldn't piece together.
The team at Rhs has been instrumental in me reaching my goals. Lyme disease has been extremely challenging and Rhs has been there every step of the way.
Lyme disease doesn't go away on it's own and it is a marathon, but Restorative Health Solutions has a process that works, follow it, be open and communicate. This is a two way street, they can't read your mind, so come in with the mentality of a partnership.
I would recommend anyone go and see them if you need to find answers on your Lyme disease journey." 

-Aaron Lindholm

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