How Lyme and Co-Infections Cause Lymphatic Congestion: Symptoms, Causes, & Solutions
Lyme, along with its common co-infections, has the unique ability to infiltrate the body’s deep systems, making recovery a complex journey. One key element often overlooked in addressing Lyme is the relationship between the infection and lymphatic congestion. In fact, an essential part of the healing process involves understanding how Lyme loves to settle in the extracellular matrix—the area surrounding our cells—and the vital role of the lymphatic system in detoxifying and clearing this space.
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a gel-like substance that sits between our cells, acting as both a cushion and a communication hub. It’s also where much of the lymphatic fluid begins its journey through the body, making it one of the first systems to encounter and attempt to manage infections like Lyme and its co-infections. Unfortunately, Lyme spirochetes are particularly adept at evading immune detection by hiding in the ECM, where they create biofilms that serve as a protective shield. Over time, this congestion of the ECM can lead to a sluggish, overburdened lymphatic system, which is already tasked with removing toxicants, cellular waste, and pathogens from the body
Why Lymphatic Drainage is Crucial in Lyme Disease Recovery
The lymphatic system is often described as the body’s drainage system. It plays a crucial role in detoxification by transporting toxicants and waste out of the extracellular matrix and into the bloodstream for removal. When Lyme spirochetes settle into the ECM, they congest the lymphatic system, slowing down the body’s ability to detoxify and making recovery from Lyme much more challenging.
One of the most effective ways to combat this congestion is by supporting lymphatic drainage as part of the foundational treatment for Lyme disease. Clearing the ECM and optimizing lymphatic flow can help the immune system access these hidden spirochetes and break down biofilms, allowing treatments to be more effective. Supporting the lymphatic system also helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and boost overall immunity—key factors in recovering from chronic Lyme. The spirochetes then create inflammation and biotoxins that congests the lymphatic system.
Practical Steps for Lymphatic Support
Supporting your lymphatic system is an ongoing process, and it’s crucial to incorporate daily practices that promote drainage. Here are some key approaches:
- Lymphatic massage and manual therapy: Gentle, rhythmic movements can help move lymphatic fluid through the body, clearing congestion. At home support may include using Lymphflo, Flow Vibe, Gua Sha, and castor oil packs.
- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated with filtered (and preferably structured) ensures that the fascia and lymphatic fluid remains thin and flows freely.
- Herbal support: Certain herbs, such as cleavers, red root, and calendula, plant stem cells from sweet chestnut and lemon tree are known to promote lymphatic flow and support detoxification.
- Physical movement: Exercise, particularly activities that involve bouncing or stretching, like rebounding or yoga, can stimulate lymphatic circulation.
- Detox therapies: Incorporating infrared sauna, Epsom salt baths, or ionic foot baths can enhance the body’s detox pathways.
Lyme Disease Awareness: From Silent Epidemic to Effective Solutions | Episode 240
In this solo episode, I dive deep into the often misunderstood and misdiagnosed world of Lyme Disease during Lyme Awareness Month. I discuss the staggering statistics that roughly 476,000 people are diagnosed with Lyme Disease each year in the United States. I explain how Lyme Disease is known as "the great imitator" as it can affect neurological, rheumatologic, and other body systems, often leading to misdiagnoses. For anyone struggling with chronic Lyme disease or who is interested in understanding this complex condition better, this episode is an invaluable resource.
For the full show notes please visit my website: www.drchristineschaffner.com/Episode240
After a Lyme disease diagnosis, supporting the body’s healing processes is essential. Often, Lyme spirochetes can hide within cells, leading to a range of symptoms over time. Beyond antibiotics, incorporating supportive therapies—like lymphatic drainage, detoxification, and immune-boosting nutrients—can make a difference in recovery. Managing inflammation, enhancing detox pathways, and reinforcing the immune system can all help reduce symptoms and improve resilience. A holistic approach, including lifestyle changes and specific supplementation, offers much-needed support on the path to healing and helps prevent flare-ups down the road.
When Lyme is identified soon after a tick bite, timely and supportive care is critical. In addition to prescribed treatments, natural approaches like immune support, herbal protocols, and detoxification can aid the body in managing symptoms and controlling bacterial spread. Supplements that support inflammation control and immune resilience can complement traditional care, giving the body the resources it needs to heal efficiently. Quick action combined with supportive therapies can play a major role in limiting long-term complications, helping you regain health and vitality.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Healing Journey
Understanding the deep connection between Lyme disease, co-infections, and lymphatic congestion is key to creating a holistic recovery plan. By prioritizing lymphatic drainage, we can effectively clear the extracellular matrix where Lyme tends to hide, creating the foundation for true healing. This approach allows us to not only target the infection more effectively but also strengthen the body’s natural detoxification processes, reduce inflammation, and support overall vitality.Your journey to recovery begins with clearing the pathways that Lyme has congested, and in doing so, we empower the body’s innate ability to heal.
Your Support In Lymphatic Drainage: Lymphflo
Using Lymphflo as part of a holistic approach to managing Lyme and co-infections can make a noticeable difference, as it allows the body to process and eliminate toxicants more effectively. For best results, combine Lymphflo with other lifestyle and wellness practices, like hydration, dry brushing, and gentle exercise, to support overall lymph health. With regular use, Lymphflo can help create a more balanced, resilient internal environment, providing relief and greater comfort on the path to recovery.
Lyme Disease and Getting Your Life Back | Stephen Davis with Dr. Christine Schaffner | Episode 143
In today’s episode of the Spectrum of Health Podcast, Dr. Christine Schaffner talks with Stephen Davis about Lyme Disease and shares his journey of trying to help his daughter find solutions when she was diagnosed with Lyme Disease. While researching options for treatment, He decided to start his own business and developed a solution that helped his daughter and many others.
To get the full show notes - https://www.drchristineschaffner.com/lyme-disease-getting-your-life-back-stephen-davis-with-dr-christine-schaffner-episode-143/