When encountering a toxic substance, our bodies automatically respond by removing the substance in a variety of ways.  A person may develop a fever as a means of pushing toxins out by way of perspiration.  If we chance upon something that is very toxic, our bodies may react with vomiting or diarrhea.  Coughing, sneezing, eye and nose watering may also be signs of your system responding to built up toxins.  However, there are some toxins that cannot leave our systems without assistance. 

For people suffering with Lyme disease, it is imperative that chemical and metal exposures be evaluated and treated.  Many patients site sensitivities to chemicals or other substances as a trigger for symptomology. Toxins often prevent optimum

·         Chelation- Chelating agents are often helpful in the removal of heavy metals and other toxins and are designed to improve the circulation.  EDTA is a binding agent found in many IV chelation therapies, and works by binding with toxic heavy metal concentrations in the body's tissues and removing them. 

·         Sauna Therapy- Typical detox protocols include low temperature sauna therapy where patients sit in a sauna for 90 minutes at 115° F.  Heat liquefies fat-soluble toxins and assist in excreting them out through the skin pores. This low temperature sauna therapy is usually well handled by patients with heat intolerances and may be used in conjunction with Niacin and choline supplements to increase the flush of toxins.  Sauna therapy is also beneficial for the skin, eases joint pain and stiffness, improves the immune system, reduces stress and fatigue and increases blood circulation while strengthening the cardiovascular system.

·         Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy- Hyperbaric floods organs and tissues with oxygen, thus resulting in better functionality of organ systems, to stimulate the body’s natural healing process.  The chamber also aids in killing yeast, virus, bad bacteria and other pathogens, which assists in the recovery process as well.

Due to the enormous amount of chemicals that we face each day, it may be beneficial to cleanse your system periodically.  Patients who are on numerous medications should also consider detoxification due to the toxic load on the liver that comes with pharmaceuticals.  For light detox therapies, an Epsom salt bath, increased consumption of water or detoxifying teas can be beneficial.  Massage therapy is also helpful in releasing toxins from your soft tissues and joints.  By working the muscle areas with intense massage, toxins are released from the muscles and joints.