[cd3girls]

I have struggled with this topic....... but my conscience has gotten the better of me, and I just had to speak up. Please understand that I hate to contradict anything in the treatment steps that have been outlined. Overall I have been following them and found them to be terrific! but there's just one that has been gnawing at me.......

I recommend that everyone stop taking longs soaks in warm/hot water (even with the salt/peroxide). While it may provide some relief during the soak, I strongly believe that this actually keeps these things happy. Keep in mind that the high density areas for this disease are primarily in the south (even though its present in all states). These critters seems to thrive in warm/moist situations...... I live in New England and noticed that the disease slowed down during the winter months - when the air is much colder and drier.

If you are not sure about this suggestion, please try this. Ice down one of your wounds (I wrap ice cubes in paper towels, and wet the paper towel slightly to conduct the cold). Or, use ice cold water. leave on for 5 minutes or so, and then wipe the area. you should see a noticable difference. The ice has an added benefit in that it numbs the area, so while treating this way you get pain relief as well. this "test" will take only 10 minutes, and costs nothing. Then you can determine if this makes sense for you.

PS - I also keep my salt water and hydrogen peroxide in the refrigerator to keep as cold as possible.