Treatments for Lyme Disease - Dr. Richard Horowitz | Nervous System Strategies | E187

Treatments for Lyme Disease: Supporting the Brain and Nervous System

If your child experiences fatigue, mood changes, or cognitive difficulties, Lyme disease may be an underlying factor. You’re not alone. Lyme, known as “the great imitator,” often mimics other conditions, making recognition and treatment complex. In this episode, Dr. Roseann and Dr. Richard Horowitz explain treatments for Lyme disease, integrative strategies, and how supporting the nervous system can improve emotional regulation, focus, and overall health.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to identify early signs of Lyme disease in children
• Evidence-based treatments for Lyme disease including antibiotics, pulse dosing, and immune support
• How neuroinflammation impacts behavior, focus, and Emotional Dysregulation in Children
• Practical strategies for parents to support a Dysregulated Child at home

Why Lyme mimics other illnesses

Lyme disease can resemble chronic fatigue, autoimmune disorders, or even long COVID, which often delays diagnosis.

Signs to track:

• Migratory pain or joint issues
• Cognitive changes or memory problems
• Sudden anxiety, OCD, or attention struggles

Parent story:

A child’s sudden attention issues were initially blamed on school stress, but careful evaluation revealed early tick exposure.

Diagnosis and treatment

Lyme isn’t always evident on labs. Dr. Horowitz’s 16-point MSIDS model evaluates:

• Inflammation
• Co-infections
• Environmental toxins
• Nutrient deficiencies

Tips for parents:

• Track sleep, diet, and recurring infections
• Seek providers trained in Lyme and MSIDS protocols

Targeted treatments include:

• Dapsone and pulse antibiotics for persistent infections
• Immune support with anti-inflammatories and supplements
• Detoxification and nutrient optimization
• PEMF therapy and gentle brain-based regulation

Parent story:

One teen’s cognitive fog and irritability improved dramatically once PEMF were added to treatment.

Integrative approaches for recovery

Functional medicine supports Lyme care by reducing inflammation, improving detox pathways, and supporting the nervous system. Diet, stress management, movement, and supplements enhance recovery.

Listen + Take the Next Step

Get your FREE Regulation Rescue Kit to support your child’s nervous system and emotional regulation:

👉 www.drroseann.com/newsletter

Explore Dr. Horowitz’s resources at CanGetBetter.com and his research publications for more guidance.

FAQs

Q1: Can children fully recover from Lyme disease?

Yes, with early recognition, comprehensive treatment, and nervous system support.

Q2: How long does Lyme treatment take?

Duration varies depending on infection severity, co-infections, and nervous system regulation.

Q3: Are Lyme symptoms always visible?

No. Cognitive, emotional, or subtle physical symptoms may appear before obvious signs.

Q4: Can Lyme and long COVID occur together?

Yes. Both can create neuroinflammation and dysregulation, complicating diagnosis.

Q5: How do I find a knowledgeable provider?

Look for physicians trained in Lyme, MSIDS, and integrative functional medicine approaches.

Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge helps parents understand Emotional Dysregulation in Children and teaches practical Nervous System Regulation in Children and Co-Regulation Techniques through Regulation First Parenting™.

Discover more of Dr. Horowitz's research and publications by visiting the following links:

● https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35884166/

● https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33105645/

Here are more resources to help you:

● https://drroseann.com/category/panspandaslyme-ticks/

● https://drroseann.com/panskit

● https://drtalks.com/lyme-summit-2024