Ways how I'd describe living with chronic Lyme disease

In a world that often swiftly overlooks the invisible struggles many face, today I offer you a glimpse into life with chronic Lyme. A disease that still remains all too often misunderstood, with symptoms not always visible to the outside world. Forget the usual clichés about fatigue, as we've all heard them by now; these experiences go beyond simply 'being tired.' It's like climbing a steep mountain every day, with each step adding palpable weight to your ankles. In this blog, I share not only the physical burden but also the emotional and mental challenges of living with the consequences of Lyme.

At times, life with Lyme feels like an endless climb, with each day presenting a new peak to conquer. The burden you carry feels like additional baggage constantly trying to pull you down, especially on days when the world already feels bleak.

And then there's that medicine cabinet – no longer a simple box but rather a pharmacy in itself. Boxes full of pills because standard pill organizers are insufficient to manage daily doses. It's a puzzle you must solve to bring some order to the chaos of medication.

Sometimes, it feels like you're at sea while being motionless at home. The ground beneath your feet constantly feels in motion, even when the world around you appears still.

Concentration requires Olympic effort. Whether it's reading a book, following a conversation, or simply handling daily tasks, it takes double the effort to keep your thoughts together. "Sorry, can you repeat that?" becomes a phrase you use all too often.

You might wake up with a hangover unrelated to alcohol. Dizziness, headaches, and the inability to form coherent sentences are part of the package.

Your body seems confused. Are you warm or cold now? Sweating and shivering alternate, and sometimes it all happens simultaneously. It's an unpredictable dance of discomfort.

Standing up and walking feel like a challenge. Your legs suddenly refuse to cooperate, and your weight becomes a burden too heavy to carry. It's as if you have lead in your shoes when trying to move.

Prolonged standing is out of the question. It results in dizziness, darkness before your eyes, and a pounding heart in your throat.

Sitting with feet drawn up is like sitting on a bed of nails. Every movement is painful, as if the nails are piercing through the soles of your feet.

Sleep never seems enough. Even after a full night's rest, you wake up fatigued. Naps offer no relief. You've been tired for so long that you can't remember what it feels like to wake up truly rested.

This blog is not an exaggeration but a sincere testimony of a life battling the invisible consequences of a debilitating disease. Take a moment to understand, feel, and empathize. Let us, together, strive for understanding and empathy, for behind every smile hides a story that isn't always told.