Steve Christo
I was diagnosed with Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever 25 years ago. Since then, I've had chronic joint pain accompanied by degeneration of 3 lumbar disks and other unpleasant chronic ailments. I'm 47 years old and manage to remain very active. I enjoy excellent health otherwise. My doctor sees this as a "rheumatic disease" and is treating me accordingly. I tend to think that the lasting effects of RMSF is the culprit but the doctor is sceptical. At the same time, however, I'm being told not to give blood because I've had the disease. Could it be that whatever it is in my blood (as a result of the disease) could be causing these symptoms? If so, would the treatment change i.e. anti-inflamitory drugs and physical therapy? I am unable to find liturature on the long term effects of RMSF. If anyone out there has had a similar experience please write. Thanks