Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

[kbubb]

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Q. What is Morgellons?
A. At this time, it is still unknown what is causing this disease. It is absolutely NOT a psychiatric condition. It is a multi-faceted disease that can cause significant problems such as:
Skin lesions, Movement sensations in and under skin and body orifices, Fibers in skin and on skin, pin-prick pain sensations in skin, Severe itching, Musculoskeletal problems, Chronic Fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, Emotional difficulties, failing eyesight, Numerous neurological symptoms, Gastrointestinal symptoms, and changes in skin texture and pigment.
http://morgellons.org/case.htm
http://morgellons.org/AJCDerm1.pdf

2. Q. Is there a cure for Morgellons? Is there a treatment for Morgellons?
A. To date, there has not been a published cure. There are many treatments being administered both topically and systemically that are alleviating the symptoms and providing much deserved relief. There are many treatments and this site contains many suggestions. Here is a link to the treatment steps many are using on this site:
http://www.morgellons-disease-resear...php?topic=30.0

3. Q. Should I ask for a Lyme disease test?
A. Keep in mind that many of the Lyme tests are less than 50% accurate. If you want to know whether or not you have Lyme, this would be a start. Most reliable Lyme literate medical doctors (LLMDs) will diagnose Lyme on a clinical basis (i.e., your symptoms and exposure history) rather than relying on a faulty blood test.

I suggest that you read pages 9 and 10 in the following document and answer the questions in the diagnostic checklist and try to do a self evaluation to see how many symptoms you may have in this document...here is the link:
http://www.ilads.org/files/burrascano_0905.pdf

Here are a few links to read up on Lyme disease treatment and testing:
http://www.ilads.org/files/burrascano_0905.pdf
http://www.ilads.org/harvey2.html
http://www.igenex.com/lymeset2.htm
http://www.lymediseaseassociation.or...Referrals.html

4. Q. Is the DSP for fungus and bacteria, but not to get rid of the parasite?
A. The DSP will kill the Morgellons parasite under the skin or on top of it.
http://morgellons-research.org/morge...lons-cream.htm

5. Q. I have put some DSP in my ears...should I be using the Ecovie instead?
A. You can get the Eco-Vie deeper in the ear by mixing it with warm water and pouring or spraying it in the ear. DSP is difficult to get deep into the ear. It is good in the external ear canal.

6. Q. Am I supposed to be taking the colloidal silver orally, or just use it in my eyes?A. Please read the links provided below for FDA and EPA information regarding colloidal silver use. It is important to purchase a product that is in compliance. If you choose to use a colloidal silver product, follow the manufacturers dosing instructions on the package. Many people have reported that they are getting relief from eye and ear discomfort by placing a few drops into them. Others have been using it orally and report that it works similar to an antibiotic. Still others are using it topically (on the skin) and are getting symptom relief.

According to the FDA document in the link, it states that "all OTC drug products containing colloidal silver ingredients or silver salts are not generally recognized as safe and effective". If you take the time to read the document, you will read many case presentations provided to the FDA providing evidence that is was safe and effective. Regardless of this evidence the FDA did not recognize it as helpful.

However, If you read the EPAs document link, it states that the "Environmental Protection Agency’s maximum daily exposure reference dose is 350 micrograms per day for a 70 kilogram (kg) (154 lb) adult". It also gives supportive evidence that it is non carcinogenic.

This is a typical "push-pull" argument seen between many governmental agencies.

http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/98fr/081799a.pdf
http://www.epa.gov/iris/subst/0099.htm

7. Q. How much vitamin C and salt should I be taking?A. This is up to how much your body can tolerate. Drink plenty of fluids and increase when you are ready.
Follow the protocol listed on the following links:
http://www.lymephotos.com/printableprotocol.html
http://www.lymephotos.com/index.shtml
http://www.fettnet.com/lymestrategie...ome.htm#sample

8. Q. Is salt safe to consume?
A. Like many other things we have been "taught" are bad for us for so long, many are finding out that the information given by a few was wrong for the masses...
There is not a SINGLE risk factor for hypertension (high blood pressure). Some well meaning health advocates try to place the blame primarily on "salt" because it is an easy answer. It is not the amount of salt, but the type of salt ingested that can cause problems. There are additives in regular table salt that can cause problems in a person, but this is hardly due to the actual salt.
Several links (from the American journal of clinical nutrition, and a few medical doctors among other authors) have been provided that give in depth explanations and information that contradicts the outdated information that has been publicized that salt is "bad".
Keep in mind that this is a personal choice for each individual and everyone needs to educate themselves in order to make the correct choice for their circumstances.
http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/full/71/5/1013
http://www.saltworks.us/salt_info/si...nNutrition.asp
http://www.saltinstitute.org/rss/sal..._the_so_1.html
http://www.saltworks.us/news/9_5_2006.asp
http://www.saltinfo.com/mythbuster.htm
http://www.lymephotos.com/index.shtml

9. Q. How much garlic should I be taking?
A. Follow the suggested dosage instructions on the label.
Here are a few links posted by our site members:
http://www.morgellons-disease-resear...hp?topic=206.0
http://www.morgellons-disease-resear...sg1497#msg1497

10. Q. Should I be using table salt without iodine for the baths or does it matter?A. If you are allergic to iodine, use the one without iodine. Otherwise, it does not matter. Iodine is a good antibacterial. It is used in Betadine.

11. Q. Can I use Epsom Salt?
A. Epsom salt contains Magnesium and a sulfur component. Some theories suggest that Magnesium may be increasing symptoms rather than alleviating them. Some individuals have reported sulfur allergies. If Epsom salt is working for you, then by all means use it. If you are not getting good results, try switching to regular salt.

12. Q. Do you think I should show my doctor my pictures or take him samples?
A. Showing him pictures or presenting samples is a risk for an immediate DOP diagnosis. If you show him your sores and explain your symptoms without telling him your unprofessional diagnosis, he may be more apt to listen to you and provide you with treatment. Apparently, somewhere in the medical textbooks there is a chapter that says anyone who brings in their own sample is automatically delusional.

13. Q. Is it okay to use Selsun Blue with a conditioner?
A. As long as it contains the ingredients selenium sulfide 1%, citric acid, and salt (sodium chloride) it will give the same effect.

14. Q. How does one keep up with the washing & environmental cleaning recommendations? I think that I am doomed!A. This is a BIG challenge....add it to trying to get yourself and a few other family members cleaned up and most people quit before they get started. Section off your home, starting with the most important rooms (bedrooms and bathrooms)… Focus on the remainder of the house over the next few weeks. It will take several weeks to get to all the nooks and crannies. Once you give it a good cleaning, you can wipe most of the traffic areas to maintain.

15. Q. Does dry cleaning even work to kill them?A. I do not know if dry cleaning helps, maybe you can lightly spray the clothes with Eco-vie and let them air dry. Do not saturate them (be sure to spot test).

16. Q. Which is better to use in the treatments… warm or cold water?
A. Cold water actually constricts the vascular supply to the skin, reducing the swelling of the lesion and reducing the sensitivity as well. If you get better results using cold water, then do it this way. However, most people cannot tolerate taking cold baths.

17. Q. I do not like to take baths or treat my whole body. Why can’t I just treat the part of my body that is infected?A. In order to eliminate the organisms from simply moving to another part of your body that has not been treated, a bath is necessary (or spraying your entire body is necessary). This distributes the treatment to ALL of the skin.

18. Q. Along with the vitamin C and salt tablets, do I need to take antibiotics and antifungal meds, and if so, which meds should I ask for?
A. Because all of us are different, I will say this is up to the individual. If you want to try prescription meds and your healthcare provider agrees to monitor your progress and help you with any side effects, then you can ask for antibiotics and antifungals.
Note: probiotics are very important if you take loads of antibiotics...Acidophilus is inexpensive and easy to obtain and it will help keep your intestinal flora in tact.

19. Q. Should I apply the lactic acid cream all over my body?
A. This product helps alleviate the pin-prick pain sensations and promotes healing of the lesions. It should be used only on problem areas, avoid using on non-affected skin. If it bothers you, discontinue use...you may not be able to tolerate the product.

20. Q. I thought I had been dealing with a resistant strain of scabies for a long time for lack of any adequate diagnosis. Could it be that these were a terrible strain of scabies and now they’ve become super resistant?
A. A lot of people think they have Norwegian crusted scabies because morg resembles them closely. However, they do not respond to the scabies treatment medications. You might have had BOTH at one time and have successfully overcome the scabies, but not the Morgellons. There are all kinds of theories about what this diease is and at this point it is all speculation.
I was covered with sores and fought with all the scabies treatments I could find to no avail. This infection does not respond to other treatment approaches, but it will respond to the treatment steps that are posted.

21. Q. Will I regain my health with normal skin and a normal life again?A. I think that you will regain a large amount or normalcy, but until a cure is found, you will have to adjust your lifestyle. This would be similar to how a person who has been diagnosed with a disease such as Diabetes, Heart disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinsons, Cancer, etc would have to work through. Once you overcome the infection and have found successful ways to keep it at bay, you will be able to do normal things again. You will have to adjust your lifestyle to incorporate your ongoing treatment.

22. Q. Can I be intimate with my spouse or significant other?A. This is a decision that I will leave to the couple involved. Even though my spouse and I remain intimate, my spouse is not suffering from any morgellons symptoms. In my opinion, my spouse was already exposed before we knew what I had, so it was too late at that point to seclude myself.

23. Q. Will I remain in a state of depression?
A. There are days when we all feel this "defeat" feeling. Like being alone in the world trying to fight a foe without proper weapons. This is what makes this forum a life-line. We have joined together to help and support each other. We have developed a set of treatments that are effective and have an aresenal of products that will defeat this disease. Notice I did not say "cure". We are all still looking for the cure, but in the meantime, we have figured out how to fight this thing and overcome it to the point where we can keep it at bay.

24. Q. What if I don’t find the medical help I need?A. As the CDC gears up to begin studying this disease, they will release more and more information on it. I am certain that they will discover that it is more than what they think it is. I am waiting for that turning point in time and then everyone will be moving to eliminate it. If the CDC lets us down...God forbid...then there are still docs that are treating this disease and declaring it is real. There are some that are helping, but we must find them.
Here is a link to a doctor referral site:
http://www.lymediseaseassociation.or...Referrals.html

25. Q. I almost can't stand to soak in the Eco-Vie because I get so cold. When I did my first Vinegar/Salt soak, SO much stuff popped out!! Do you think I should continue Eco-Vie soaks sometimes anyway?A. If you get that cold, don't soak, make a spritz and spray it on yourself after a shower and let it dry on your skin. Do it at least one time a week.

26. Q. After you soak in vinegar or Eco-Vie & dry completely, do you put lotion on? My skin feels so dry after that, but I don't want to ruin effects by putting lotion on if I shouldn't.A. If it does not contain anything that will kill the friendly bacteria in the Eco-Vie then it is okay to use. After the Vinegar, you can apply lotion.

27. Q. Does anyone else have twitching in muscles? My feet & legs are particularly bad.
A. Many people report this as a symptom of the disease.

28. Q. Are the black, white, colored fibers actually worms? What are the black specs?A. I think the person who can answer this holds the key to the whole disease. No one really knows what the heck they are...yet, but hopefully it will change soon.

29. Q. I've had a few little sort of bumpy light brown mole looking things pop up on by skin for a couple of years now. I've checked with family doc about them & dermatologist. Both said nothing to worry about. HOWEVER, now that i'm soaking, they are falling off & nice smooth pink skin is underneath!
A. This is another symptom many people are reporting. They will pop up and go away after a while. My doc tried to tell me they were "age spots"...they are gone, so I guess I am regressing in age.

30. Q. What should be the frequency of the soaks in the the treatment steps once I have improved using them daily?
A. After every lesion has healed, you can reduce the duration of each of the soaks to once a week. I have made a soaking schedule to follow. Monday is a peroxide/salt soak, Wednesday is an Eco-Vie soak, and Friday a Vinegar/salt soak. I still shower daily and alternate using Selsun Blue and Nizoral. I also use an antibacterial soap on ocassion. Apply DSP on a daily basis.

The idea behind alternating the products is to keep rotating the treatment to target all 3 of the potential aspects of this infection...bacteria, yeast (fungus) and parasites. Nizoral and Vinegar target yeast (fungus). Eco-Vie targets fungus, but also targets bacteria and the Morg parasite. Salt targets the parasites and other microbes. Hydrogen peroxide targets bacteria, viruses, fungus and the parasites. Selsun Blue targets bacteria and some yeast. Incorporating all the products on a rotating basis will keep them from becoming resistant to one part of the treatment as well as keep the infection under control.

If you begin to develop new skin lesions or skin sensations, return to the daily soaks.

31. Q. For Laundries: Is it important to use hot water for the 2nd regular Borax wash in treatment B? or can I use cold- or rinse in cold for that matter?
A. For the laundry, you can rinse in cold...just make sure to wash in hot.

32. Q. How do you suggest dealing with lots of paper and books when you eco-vie the whole house?A. I might wipe the spine and cover of my books with a damp cloth soaked in eco-vie and water, but that is about all I do for books. You can get a couple of room humidifiers (Wal-mart sells them pretty cheap). Pour water into them and add 1/2 cup of eco-vie and turn them on. It will mist the entire room including any papers that are out.

33. Q. We are about to try to Eco vie the whole house this weekend, and my husband thinks in our state of tiredness that we will not accomplish it...Any suggestions?
A. You can get a 2 gallon lawn and garden sprayer (again I bought one at Wal-Mart) and put 2 gallons of warm water to 1/2 cup of eco-vie into the sprayer. Pump it up and spray your entire house and work area and let dry completely. My home is 3000 sq feet and it takes me about 30 minutes to saturate it. After everything dries, vacuum and throw away the bag. This should take care of the majority of your envirnoment. The Eco-Vie spray is quick and fairly easy. You can vacuum another day or in several days of you get too tired.

34. Q. Is Morgellons contagious?
A. This is a question that does not have an exact answer yet.
This is a question that does not have an exact answer yet. All I can tell you is that only 2 of my family members display Morgellons symptoms and we have both tested positive for Lyme Borrelia, Babesia and Cpn. The reamining family members are showing no symptoms. I sleep next to my spouse every night and we have an active sex life (when my energy level is up) Still...my spouse has not developed any symptoms to date. Secluding yourself from your kids, spouse, family, pets, friends, etc, will not help now. Most likely, they have already been exposed to you early in your infection. If they are not showing signs, in my opinion, the possibility of developing an infection now is low.

35. Q. Has anyone noticed much more dust around them and in there environment?
A. It might be related to weather and climate. However, you could be shedding dead skin cells or dead organisms that may be creating more dust.

36. Q. While I shed skin, am I contaminating my environment and affecting others?
A. If you are infected with something like a mite, you can infect others. To date, the absolute verdict on whether or not Morgellons is contagious by contact, droplet, or airborne exposure is not known. In my own experience with my family...it is not easy to pass it to healthy individuals.

37. Q. Does anyone know if the fungus portion of the disease is contagious? I have been going through different stages of the illness and the most recent has been shedding and a type of athletes foot and hand. My concern is that the fungus is contagious.
A. Most people are familiar with athletes foot in showers and gym floors. This is easy to pick up. Some people are more succeptible to getting fungal infections than others. The best defense against them is avoiding lots of sugars, keeping skin clean and dry, and washing hands and feet often. If you wash with Nizoral, it can reduce this problem.

38. Q. Can I wear makeup ever again? I was wondering if all my makeup is contaminated. I haven't worn any since this began and wondered if you have experience with this.
A. You can wear makeup. It may be a good idea to go buy some new makeup after you get the infection under control. Try using disposable pads and Q-tips instead of brushes and sponges. If you use a makeup brush, soak it in Eco-Vie or run it through the dishwasher using a citrus cleaner every week or so.

39. Q. What can I do for brainfog or neurotoxins?A. There is a website that I am going to direct you to that has an online VCS (visual contrast sensitivity test) designed by Dr. Richie Shoemaker to test for neurotoxins. You take the test on your computer and it is very easy and painfree. If you test positive, you can pay for a protocol to help you battle the neurotoxins (I think it is ~ $45). You can also ask Dr. Shoemaker to direct you to a physician in your area that can treat you.
http://www.chronicneurotoxins.com/

You can also try a few of the following over the counter remedies:
For Brainfog:
alapha-lipoic-acid, Co-Enzyme Q-10, Acetyl L-Carnitine

For overall body aches, lethargy, and pain:
- coffee enemas
- Sauna therapy (sweat the toxins out - be sure to hydrate well)
http://www.mercola.com/2002/aug/14/sauna.htm

Here is a link for more ideas:
http://www.earthtym.net/ref-herxheimer.htm

40. Q. What can I do for mouth sores and irritation?
A.
- Gargle with peroxide and salt - swish and spit - do not drink
- Gargle with salt water - swish and spit
- Gargle with listerine (citrus) - this may hurt, so do as tolerated
- Suck on a few Halls menthol cough drops every now and then
- Chew acidophilus tablets: let the chewed pieces stay in your mouth and work it all around and then swallow -do not drink fluids for about 5 minutes after chewing tablets. This will coat your mouth.
http://www.gnc.com/product/index.jsp...entPage=search
You can also find children's chewable acidophilus brands such as Rhino in the childrens vitamin sections at some stores.

41. Q. What about problems such as burning with urination or vaginal and rectal itching and burning?A.
For Vaginal and Rectal Discomfort: Try an Eco-Vie douche, or soak a tampon in Eco-Vie and insert it for a little while, or put DSP on a tampon and insert it. You can also take a feminine pad and spray it lightly with Eco-Vie or put DSP on it and place it up against your body. You can smear DSP around the soft tissues of your openings. Do not put anything into your urethra (pee hole).

You can also try hydrogen peroxide douches and enemas (it is IMPORTANT to only use 35% food grade H2O2 diluted). If you want to try this, please refer to the following link for instructions:
http://www.frequencyrising.com/hydrogen_peroxide.htm

You can also try yeast cream externally and insert it vaginally to see if it helps (monistat or gynelotrimine are good brands)

For Bladder and Urination discomfort:
It might actually be a urinary tract infection (UTI). I have had several of them during the course of this disease. My urine cultures came back with some very mean bacteria and I was put on heavy antibiotics to resolve the problems. I think you should "rule-out" a urinary tract infection by simply going to the doctor and peeing in a specimen cup so they can test your urine. You do not have to mention Morg or anything else. If you have a UTI, they will give you a prescription to get it cleared up for you. There is a product called "Uristat" that you can buy over the counter. It contains a medication that will numb your bladder and urethra (pee hole) and stop the intense discomfort. It DOES NOT cure a bladder infection. It only alleviates the symptoms. It will make your urine turn dark orange and might stain clothing. You can get some of this at Wal-Mart or Walgreens or any other drug store and it will help with your discomfort, but don't take it until after you have had your urine cultured.
http://www.uristat.com/help.htm

When I started the salt/vit C protocol, I had excessive burning when I urinated and I think it was a type of herxheimer reaction. I was very uncomfortable for several days. After my doc ruled out a bladder infection, I got some Uristat over the counter and took it once a day and it helped me with the discomfort until the salt/vitC got rid of whatever was causing the problem.

42. Q. Will Hydrogen Peroxide hurt you?
A. Abuse or overuse of anything, including 3% peroxide, can cause damage. Too much of a good thing can make it a bad thing. The treatment steps outlined on this site provide suggestions on how to dilute it down in a tub full of water, which makes it VERY mild. There are also suggestions for diluting it in a spray bottle. The skin may fade slightly, but it is only temporary and goes away in 5 minutes or less. There may also be a slight lightening of the hair if it is not rinsed thoroughly. There are many products that contain peroxide in their formulations such as mouthwash, toothpaste, teeth whitening products, hair care items, bath soaps, etc. Keep in mind that using peroxide is merely a suggestion and each person needs to make their own decision about using it.


43. Q. Is long term antibiotic use harmful or will the antibiotics cause me to build up a resistance?
A. The symptoms of Morgellons are much more significant than the side effects of the common antibiotics suggested in the Vanderbilt Protocol. The specific antibiotics recommended in the Vanderbilt Protocol were chosen because they have minimal long term toxic effects. The more toxic ones (such as Flagyl) are suggested to be taken in "pulses" to minimize the potential for harmful side effects. Using multiple antibiotics in conjuction with each other will prevent resistance from arising during long term use. Probiotics are highly recommended to stabilize the gastrointestinal flora and antifungal medications will help control any yeast problems. It is important to take into consideration any existing health condition that you may have and make your own health care decisions based upon your personal history, symptoms, and doctor’s advice. The benefits should outweigh the risks. Monthly lab monitoring is highly recommended.
http://www.cpnhelp.org/concernsantibiotics

For more information refer to this link: http://morgellons.org/
(click on "FAQ")

[kbubb]

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Q. What is Morgellons?
A. At this time, it is still unknown what is causing this disease. It is absolutely NOT a psychiatric condition. It is a multi-faceted disease that can cause significant problems such as:
Skin lesions, Movement sensations in and under skin and body orifices, Fibers in skin and on skin, pin-prick pain sensations in skin, Severe itching, Musculoskeletal problems, Chronic Fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, Emotional difficulties, failing eyesight, Numerous neurological symptoms, Gastrointestinal symptoms, and changes in skin texture and pigment.
http://morgellons.org/case.htm
http://morgellons.org/AJCDerm1.pdf

2. Q. Is there a cure for Morgellons? Is there a treatment for Morgellons?
A. To date, there has not been a published cure. There are many treatments being administered both topically and systemically that are alleviating the symptoms and providing much deserved relief. There are many treatments and this site contains many suggestions. Here is a link to the treatment steps many are using on this site:
http://www.morgellons-disease-resear...php?topic=30.0

3. Q. Should I ask for a Lyme disease test?
A. Keep in mind that many of the Lyme tests are less than 50% accurate. If you want to know whether or not you have Lyme, this would be a start. Most reliable Lyme literate medical doctors (LLMDs) will diagnose Lyme on a clinical basis (i.e., your symptoms and exposure history) rather than relying on a faulty blood test.

I suggest that you read pages 9 and 10 in the following document and answer the questions in the diagnostic checklist and try to do a self evaluation to see how many symptoms you may have in this document...here is the link:
http://www.ilads.org/files/burrascano_0905.pdf

Here are a few links to read up on Lyme disease treatment and testing:
http://www.ilads.org/files/burrascano_0905.pdf
http://www.ilads.org/harvey2.html
http://www.igenex.com/lymeset2.htm
http://www.lymediseaseassociation.or...Referrals.html

4. Q. Is the DSP for fungus and bacteria, but not to get rid of the parasite?
A. The DSP will kill the Morgellons parasite under the skin or on top of it.
http://morgellons-research.org/morge...lons-cream.htm

5. Q. I have put some DSP in my ears...should I be using the Ecovie instead?
A. You can get the Eco-Vie deeper in the ear by mixing it with warm water and pouring or spraying it in the ear. DSP is difficult to get deep into the ear. It is good in the external ear canal.

6. Q. Am I supposed to be taking the colloidal silver orally, or just use it in my eyes?A. Please read the links provided below for FDA and EPA information regarding colloidal silver use. It is important to purchase a product that is in compliance. If you choose to use a colloidal silver product, follow the manufacturers dosing instructions on the package. Many people have reported that they are getting relief from eye and ear discomfort by placing a few drops into them. Others have been using it orally and report that it works similar to an antibiotic. Still others are using it topically (on the skin) and are getting symptom relief.

According to the FDA document in the link, it states that "all OTC drug products containing colloidal silver ingredients or silver salts are not generally recognized as safe and effective". If you take the time to read the document, you will read many case presentations provided to the FDA providing evidence that is was safe and effective. Regardless of this evidence the FDA did not recognize it as helpful.

However, If you read the EPAs document link, it states that the "Environmental Protection Agency’s maximum daily exposure reference dose is 350 micrograms per day for a 70 kilogram (kg) (154 lb) adult". It also gives supportive evidence that it is non carcinogenic.

This is a typical "push-pull" argument seen between many governmental agencies.

http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/98fr/081799a.pdf
http://www.epa.gov/iris/subst/0099.htm

7. Q. How much vitamin C and salt should I be taking?A. This is up to how much your body can tolerate. Drink plenty of fluids and increase when you are ready.
Follow the protocol listed on the following links:
http://www.lymephotos.com/printableprotocol.html
http://www.lymephotos.com/index.shtml
http://www.fettnet.com/lymestrategie...ome.htm#sample

8. Q. Is salt safe to consume?
A. Like many other things we have been "taught" are bad for us for so long, many are finding out that the information given by a few was wrong for the masses...
There is not a SINGLE risk factor for hypertension (high blood pressure). Some well meaning health advocates try to place the blame primarily on "salt" because it is an easy answer. It is not the amount of salt, but the type of salt ingested that can cause problems. There are additives in regular table salt that can cause problems in a person, but this is hardly due to the actual salt.
Several links (from the American journal of clinical nutrition, and a few medical doctors among other authors) have been provided that give in depth explanations and information that contradicts the outdated information that has been publicized that salt is "bad".
Keep in mind that this is a personal choice for each individual and everyone needs to educate themselves in order to make the correct choice for their circumstances.
http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/full/71/5/1013
http://www.saltworks.us/salt_info/si...nNutrition.asp
http://www.saltinstitute.org/rss/sal..._the_so_1.html
http://www.saltworks.us/news/9_5_2006.asp
http://www.saltinfo.com/mythbuster.htm
http://www.lymephotos.com/index.shtml

9. Q. How much garlic should I be taking?
A. Follow the suggested dosage instructions on the label.
Here are a few links posted by our site members:
http://www.morgellons-disease-resear...hp?topic=206.0
http://www.morgellons-disease-resear...sg1497#msg1497

10. Q. Should I be using table salt without iodine for the baths or does it matter?A. If you are allergic to iodine, use the one without iodine. Otherwise, it does not matter. Iodine is a good antibacterial. It is used in Betadine.

11. Q. Can I use Epsom Salt?
A. Epsom salt contains Magnesium and a sulfur component. Some theories suggest that Magnesium may be increasing symptoms rather than alleviating them. Some individuals have reported sulfur allergies. If Epsom salt is working for you, then by all means use it. If you are not getting good results, try switching to regular salt.

12. Q. Do you think I should show my doctor my pictures or take him samples?
A. Showing him pictures or presenting samples is a risk for an immediate DOP diagnosis. If you show him your sores and explain your symptoms without telling him your unprofessional diagnosis, he may be more apt to listen to you and provide you with treatment. Apparently, somewhere in the medical textbooks there is a chapter that says anyone who brings in their own sample is automatically delusional.

13. Q. Is it okay to use Selsun Blue with a conditioner?
A. As long as it contains the ingredients selenium sulfide 1%, citric acid, and salt (sodium chloride) it will give the same effect.

14. Q. How does one keep up with the washing & environmental cleaning recommendations? I think that I am doomed!A. This is a BIG challenge....add it to trying to get yourself and a few other family members cleaned up and most people quit before they get started. Section off your home, starting with the most important rooms (bedrooms and bathrooms)… Focus on the remainder of the house over the next few weeks. It will take several weeks to get to all the nooks and crannies. Once you give it a good cleaning, you can wipe most of the traffic areas to maintain.

15. Q. Does dry cleaning even work to kill them?A. I do not know if dry cleaning helps, maybe you can lightly spray the clothes with Eco-vie and let them air dry. Do not saturate them (be sure to spot test).

16. Q. Which is better to use in the treatments… warm or cold water?
A. Cold water actually constricts the vascular supply to the skin, reducing the swelling of the lesion and reducing the sensitivity as well. If you get better results using cold water, then do it this way. However, most people cannot tolerate taking cold baths.

17. Q. I do not like to take baths or treat my whole body. Why can’t I just treat the part of my body that is infected?A. In order to eliminate the organisms from simply moving to another part of your body that has not been treated, a bath is necessary (or spraying your entire body is necessary). This distributes the treatment to ALL of the skin.

18. Q. Along with the vitamin C and salt tablets, do I need to take antibiotics and antifungal meds, and if so, which meds should I ask for?
A. Because all of us are different, I will say this is up to the individual. If you want to try prescription meds and your healthcare provider agrees to monitor your progress and help you with any side effects, then you can ask for antibiotics and antifungals.
Note: probiotics are very important if you take loads of antibiotics...Acidophilus is inexpensive and easy to obtain and it will help keep your intestinal flora in tact.

19. Q. Should I apply the lactic acid cream all over my body?
A. This product helps alleviate the pin-prick pain sensations and promotes healing of the lesions. It should be used only on problem areas, avoid using on non-affected skin. If it bothers you, discontinue use...you may not be able to tolerate the product.

20. Q. I thought I had been dealing with a resistant strain of scabies for a long time for lack of any adequate diagnosis. Could it be that these were a terrible strain of scabies and now they’ve become super resistant?
A. A lot of people think they have Norwegian crusted scabies because morg resembles them closely. However, they do not respond to the scabies treatment medications. You might have had BOTH at one time and have successfully overcome the scabies, but not the Morgellons. There are all kinds of theories about what this diease is and at this point it is all speculation.
I was covered with sores and fought with all the scabies treatments I could find to no avail. This infection does not respond to other treatment approaches, but it will respond to the treatment steps that are posted.

21. Q. Will I regain my health with normal skin and a normal life again?A. I think that you will regain a large amount or normalcy, but until a cure is found, you will have to adjust your lifestyle. This would be similar to how a person who has been diagnosed with a disease such as Diabetes, Heart disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinsons, Cancer, etc would have to work through. Once you overcome the infection and have found successful ways to keep it at bay, you will be able to do normal things again. You will have to adjust your lifestyle to incorporate your ongoing treatment.

22. Q. Can I be intimate with my spouse or significant other?A. This is a decision that I will leave to the couple involved. Even though my spouse and I remain intimate, my spouse is not suffering from any morgellons symptoms. In my opinion, my spouse was already exposed before we knew what I had, so it was too late at that point to seclude myself.

23. Q. Will I remain in a state of depression?
A. There are days when we all feel this "defeat" feeling. Like being alone in the world trying to fight a foe without proper weapons. This is what makes this forum a life-line. We have joined together to help and support each other. We have developed a set of treatments that are effective and have an aresenal of products that will defeat this disease. Notice I did not say "cure". We are all still looking for the cure, but in the meantime, we have figured out how to fight this thing and overcome it to the point where we can keep it at bay.

24. Q. What if I don’t find the medical help I need?A. As the CDC gears up to begin studying this disease, they will release more and more information on it. I am certain that they will discover that it is more than what they think it is. I am waiting for that turning point in time and then everyone will be moving to eliminate it. If the CDC lets us down...God forbid...then there are still docs that are treating this disease and declaring it is real. There are some that are helping, but we must find them.
Here is a link to a doctor referral site:
http://www.lymediseaseassociation.or...Referrals.html

25. Q. I almost can't stand to soak in the Eco-Vie because I get so cold. When I did my first Vinegar/Salt soak, SO much stuff popped out!! Do you think I should continue Eco-Vie soaks sometimes anyway?A. If you get that cold, don't soak, make a spritz and spray it on yourself after a shower and let it dry on your skin. Do it at least one time a week.

26. Q. After you soak in vinegar or Eco-Vie & dry completely, do you put lotion on? My skin feels so dry after that, but I don't want to ruin effects by putting lotion on if I shouldn't.A. If it does not contain anything that will kill the friendly bacteria in the Eco-Vie then it is okay to use. After the Vinegar, you can apply lotion.

27. Q. Does anyone else have twitching in muscles? My feet & legs are particularly bad.
A. Many people report this as a symptom of the disease.

28. Q. Are the black, white, colored fibers actually worms? What are the black specs?A. I think the person who can answer this holds the key to the whole disease. No one really knows what the heck they are...yet, but hopefully it will change soon.

29. Q. I've had a few little sort of bumpy light brown mole looking things pop up on by skin for a couple of years now. I've checked with family doc about them & dermatologist. Both said nothing to worry about. HOWEVER, now that i'm soaking, they are falling off & nice smooth pink skin is underneath!
A. This is another symptom many people are reporting. They will pop up and go away after a while. My doc tried to tell me they were "age spots"...they are gone, so I guess I am regressing in age.

30. Q. What should be the frequency of the soaks in the the treatment steps once I have improved using them daily?
A. After every lesion has healed, you can reduce the duration of each of the soaks to once a week. I have made a soaking schedule to follow. Monday is a peroxide/salt soak, Wednesday is an Eco-Vie soak, and Friday a Vinegar/salt soak. I still shower daily and alternate using Selsun Blue and Nizoral. I also use an antibacterial soap on ocassion. Apply DSP on a daily basis.

The idea behind alternating the products is to keep rotating the treatment to target all 3 of the potential aspects of this infection...bacteria, yeast (fungus) and parasites. Nizoral and Vinegar target yeast (fungus). Eco-Vie targets fungus, but also targets bacteria and the Morg parasite. Salt targets the parasites and other microbes. Hydrogen peroxide targets bacteria, viruses, fungus and the parasites. Selsun Blue targets bacteria and some yeast. Incorporating all the products on a rotating basis will keep them from becoming resistant to one part of the treatment as well as keep the infection under control.

If you begin to develop new skin lesions or skin sensations, return to the daily soaks.

31. Q. For Laundries: Is it important to use hot water for the 2nd regular Borax wash in treatment B? or can I use cold- or rinse in cold for that matter?
A. For the laundry, you can rinse in cold...just make sure to wash in hot.

32. Q. How do you suggest dealing with lots of paper and books when you eco-vie the whole house?A. I might wipe the spine and cover of my books with a damp cloth soaked in eco-vie and water, but that is about all I do for books. You can get a couple of room humidifiers (Wal-mart sells them pretty cheap). Pour water into them and add 1/2 cup of eco-vie and turn them on. It will mist the entire room including any papers that are out.

33. Q. We are about to try to Eco vie the whole house this weekend, and my husband thinks in our state of tiredness that we will not accomplish it...Any suggestions?
A. You can get a 2 gallon lawn and garden sprayer (again I bought one at Wal-Mart) and put 2 gallons of warm water to 1/2 cup of eco-vie into the sprayer. Pump it up and spray your entire house and work area and let dry completely. My home is 3000 sq feet and it takes me about 30 minutes to saturate it. After everything dries, vacuum and throw away the bag. This should take care of the majority of your envirnoment. The Eco-Vie spray is quick and fairly easy. You can vacuum another day or in several days of you get too tired.

34. Q. Is Morgellons contagious?
A. This is a question that does not have an exact answer yet.
This is a question that does not have an exact answer yet. All I can tell you is that only 2 of my family members display Morgellons symptoms and we have both tested positive for Lyme Borrelia, Babesia and Cpn. The reamining family members are showing no symptoms. I sleep next to my spouse every night and we have an active sex life (when my energy level is up) Still...my spouse has not developed any symptoms to date. Secluding yourself from your kids, spouse, family, pets, friends, etc, will not help now. Most likely, they have already been exposed to you early in your infection. If they are not showing signs, in my opinion, the possibility of developing an infection now is low.

35. Q. Has anyone noticed much more dust around them and in there environment?
A. It might be related to weather and climate. However, you could be shedding dead skin cells or dead organisms that may be creating more dust.

36. Q. While I shed skin, am I contaminating my environment and affecting others?
A. If you are infected with something like a mite, you can infect others. To date, the absolute verdict on whether or not Morgellons is contagious by contact, droplet, or airborne exposure is not known. In my own experience with my family...it is not easy to pass it to healthy individuals.

37. Q. Does anyone know if the fungus portion of the disease is contagious? I have been going through different stages of the illness and the most recent has been shedding and a type of athletes foot and hand. My concern is that the fungus is contagious.
A. Most people are familiar with athletes foot in showers and gym floors. This is easy to pick up. Some people are more succeptible to getting fungal infections than others. The best defense against them is avoiding lots of sugars, keeping skin clean and dry, and washing hands and feet often. If you wash with Nizoral, it can reduce this problem.

38. Q. Can I wear makeup ever again? I was wondering if all my makeup is contaminated. I haven't worn any since this began and wondered if you have experience with this.
A. You can wear makeup. It may be a good idea to go buy some new makeup after you get the infection under control. Try using disposable pads and Q-tips instead of brushes and sponges. If you use a makeup brush, soak it in Eco-Vie or run it through the dishwasher using a citrus cleaner every week or so.

39. Q. What can I do for brainfog or neurotoxins?A. There is a website that I am going to direct you to that has an online VCS (visual contrast sensitivity test) designed by Dr. Richie Shoemaker to test for neurotoxins. You take the test on your computer and it is very easy and painfree. If you test positive, you can pay for a protocol to help you battle the neurotoxins (I think it is ~ $45). You can also ask Dr. Shoemaker to direct you to a physician in your area that can treat you.
http://www.chronicneurotoxins.com/

You can also try a few of the following over the counter remedies:
For Brainfog:
alapha-lipoic-acid, Co-Enzyme Q-10, Acetyl L-Carnitine

For overall body aches, lethargy, and pain:
- coffee enemas
- Sauna therapy (sweat the toxins out - be sure to hydrate well)
http://www.mercola.com/2002/aug/14/sauna.htm

Here is a link for more ideas:
http://www.earthtym.net/ref-herxheimer.htm

40. Q. What can I do for mouth sores and irritation?
A.
- Gargle with peroxide and salt - swish and spit - do not drink
- Gargle with salt water - swish and spit
- Gargle with listerine (citrus) - this may hurt, so do as tolerated
- Suck on a few Halls menthol cough drops every now and then
- Chew acidophilus tablets: let the chewed pieces stay in your mouth and work it all around and then swallow -do not drink fluids for about 5 minutes after chewing tablets. This will coat your mouth.
http://www.gnc.com/product/index.jsp...entPage=search
You can also find children's chewable acidophilus brands such as Rhino in the childrens vitamin sections at some stores.

41. Q. What about problems such as burning with urination or vaginal and rectal itching and burning?A.
For Vaginal and Rectal Discomfort: Try an Eco-Vie douche, or soak a tampon in Eco-Vie and insert it for a little while, or put DSP on a tampon and insert it. You can also take a feminine pad and spray it lightly with Eco-Vie or put DSP on it and place it up against your body. You can smear DSP around the soft tissues of your openings. Do not put anything into your urethra (pee hole).

You can also try hydrogen peroxide douches and enemas (it is IMPORTANT to only use 35% food grade H2O2 diluted). If you want to try this, please refer to the following link for instructions:
http://www.frequencyrising.com/hydrogen_peroxide.htm

You can also try yeast cream externally and insert it vaginally to see if it helps (monistat or gynelotrimine are good brands)

For Bladder and Urination discomfort:
It might actually be a urinary tract infection (UTI). I have had several of them during the course of this disease. My urine cultures came back with some very mean bacteria and I was put on heavy antibiotics to resolve the problems. I think you should "rule-out" a urinary tract infection by simply going to the doctor and peeing in a specimen cup so they can test your urine. You do not have to mention Morg or anything else. If you have a UTI, they will give you a prescription to get it cleared up for you. There is a product called "Uristat" that you can buy over the counter. It contains a medication that will numb your bladder and urethra (pee hole) and stop the intense discomfort. It DOES NOT cure a bladder infection. It only alleviates the symptoms. It will make your urine turn dark orange and might stain clothing. You can get some of this at Wal-Mart or Walgreens or any other drug store and it will help with your discomfort, but don't take it until after you have had your urine cultured.
http://www.uristat.com/help.htm

When I started the salt/vit C protocol, I had excessive burning when I urinated and I think it was a type of herxheimer reaction. I was very uncomfortable for several days. After my doc ruled out a bladder infection, I got some Uristat over the counter and took it once a day and it helped me with the discomfort until the salt/vitC got rid of whatever was causing the problem.

42. Q. Will Hydrogen Peroxide hurt you?
A. Abuse or overuse of anything, including 3% peroxide, can cause damage. Too much of a good thing can make it a bad thing. The treatment steps outlined on this site provide suggestions on how to dilute it down in a tub full of water, which makes it VERY mild. There are also suggestions for diluting it in a spray bottle. The skin may fade slightly, but it is only temporary and goes away in 5 minutes or less. There may also be a slight lightening of the hair if it is not rinsed thoroughly. There are many products that contain peroxide in their formulations such as mouthwash, toothpaste, teeth whitening products, hair care items, bath soaps, etc. Keep in mind that using peroxide is merely a suggestion and each person needs to make their own decision about using it.


43. Q. Is long term antibiotic use harmful or will the antibiotics cause me to build up a resistance?
A. The symptoms of Morgellons are much more significant than the side effects of the common antibiotics suggested in the Vanderbilt Protocol. The specific antibiotics recommended in the Vanderbilt Protocol were chosen because they have minimal long term toxic effects. The more toxic ones (such as Flagyl) are suggested to be taken in "pulses" to minimize the potential for harmful side effects. Using multiple antibiotics in conjuction with each other will prevent resistance from arising during long term use. Probiotics are highly recommended to stabilize the gastrointestinal flora and antifungal medications will help control any yeast problems. It is important to take into consideration any existing health condition that you may have and make your own health care decisions based upon your personal history, symptoms, and doctor’s advice. The benefits should outweigh the risks. Monthly lab monitoring is highly recommended.
http://www.cpnhelp.org/concernsantibiotics

For more information refer to this link: http://morgellons.org/
(click on "FAQ")