In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Melanie Stein, a licensed Naturopathic Physician and Lyme specialist from Portland, Oregon. Dr. Stein is the owner of Restorative Health Clinic, where she focuses on treating Lyme disease and its complex co-infections. Her personal battle with Lyme disease transformed her life and career, inspiring her to specialize in the care of patients with tick-borne illnesses.

Early Life and Education

• Upbringing: Born in San Diego, California, Dr. Stein moved to Portland, Oregon, where she enjoyed an active, outdoor-focused childhood.
• Challenges: Struggled with anxiety, ADD, and gastrointestinal issues that were often dismissed as psychological.
• Educational Path: Initially interested in veterinary medicine, she was guided to naturopathic medicine and earned her Doctorate in Natural Medicine and a Master’s in Acupuncture from the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM).

Lyme Disease Diagnosis and Struggles

• Early Symptoms: Experienced ongoing health challenges, including anxiety and gastrointestinal issues, but they were misdiagnosed.
• Neurological Episode: During her third year of naturopathic school, Dr. Stein faced a sudden, severe neurological crisis, leaving her paralyzed and reliant on a wheelchair.
• Misdiagnosis: Despite her Lyme diagnosis, hospital staff dismissed her condition as "conversion disorder," further complicating her care.
• Correct Diagnosis: With the help of her naturopathic doctor, Dr. Jennifer Means, she received a diagnosis of CDC-positive Lyme, IgM Bartonella, and tularemia.

Treatment and Recovery

• Therapies: Dr. Stein’s treatment included:
  • IV antibiotics like Rocephin and Azithromycin.
  • IV phosphatidylcholine for cell membrane stabilization therapy, which played a pivotal role in her recovery.
  • IV ozone therapy and herbal treatments.
  • Ivermectin to calm tremors and regulate immune responses.
• Journey to Remission: After five years of intensive treatment and additional care during a relapse, Dr. Stein recovered her health and has maintained remission.

Professional Transformation

• Becoming a Lyme Specialist: Inspired by her journey, Dr. Stein dedicated her career to treating patients with Lyme disease and advocating for better awareness and care.
• Philosophy: Emphasizes a holistic, multifaceted approach that addresses pathogens, cellular damage, and immune dysfunction.
• Mentorship and Expertise: Trained under Lyme-literate experts, attended ILADS conferences, and specialized in advanced therapies like Perineural Injection Therapy.

Advice and Prevention Tips

• For Patients: Celebrate small victories, persist through setbacks, and advocate for yourself. The healing journey is challenging, but progress is possible.
• For Prevention: Perform regular tick checks, use permethrin-treated clothing, and send ticks for testing. Awareness and preparedness are key to protecting your family.

Closing Thoughts:
Dr. Melanie Stein’s remarkable journey from patient to practitioner exemplifies resilience and the transformative power of holistic care. Through her expertise, empathy, and dedication, she continues to make a profound impact on the Lyme community.