January 20, 2014

Hi everyone!

I'm David, and I am a 54-year old "Lyme-Literate" patient in Atlanta.

I was infected at least eight years ago but missed by both the ELISA and Igenix Western Blots, and only finally tested postive via the new Advanced Labs Lyme Culture. I almost certainly have Bartonella as well.

My symptoms have traditionally been small-fiber neuropathy in my palms along with large and small joint pain.

Unfortunately, beginning in 2008, I began developing a mild light sensitivity, along with what I describe as a mild bi-laterial "veiling glare". What I mean by that is if I am looking towards a light source, anything in front of it is "washed-out" in a fog-like glare equally in BOTH eyes. However, when I then shade (or veil) my visual field from the light source my contrast comes right back!

It almost seems like the light is washing-out my visual system, and as I proportionally shade the offending light my contrast likewise proportionally returns.

Unfortunately, the glare field (and accompanying loss of contrast sensitivity) in both eyes has gotten progressively and uniformally worse over time. It also seems like there is a rough correlation between increases in the glare (or fog-like veil) occuring during times when I am treating my Lyme and Bartonella. However, when I then stop the treatment my vision does not return to where it started before treatment.

I should also mention that I have been extensively worked up, and both my visual (front of eye) and neurological (brain, optic nerves, retina, ect.) all test normal. After ruling-out many of the traditional non-Lyme eye problems, I am left with this progressive and disabling "glare" and loss of contrast from the slightest amount of stray light (along with increasing light sensitivity as well)!

Can any of the experts here with Lyme and/or Bartonella relate to what I am describing and offer any insights (pun intended).

Thank you all very much!

David