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Three white boxes labeled OralDNA Labs Oral Rinse Collection Kit with colorful geometric designs and a faint DNA strand graphic, as recommended by a naturopathic sleep doctor. The website and phone number are also visible.

Oral DNA Testing: How MyPerioPath Helps Detect Gum Disease Early

Written on . Posted in Articles, Treatments.

Nearly 47% of adults in the United States have some form of periodontal disease. From mild gingivitis to more advanced inflammation affecting the gums and bone, these conditions can lead to serious oral health issues like cavities, decay, and long-term damage if left untreated. At Dr. Marra’s practice, a proactive and root-cause approach is used to identify and address these issues early, helping patients protect both their oral and overall health.

One of the most effective ways to proactively manage your oral health is through oral DNA testing, specifically with tools like MyPerioPath.

What Is Oral DNA Testing?

Oral DNA testing is an advanced diagnostic tool that analyzes saliva to identify harmful bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria are directly linked to gum disease and inflammation.

MyPerioPath is a simple at-home saliva test that detects 11 key bacteria associated with periodontal disease, giving both patients and providers a clearer understanding of oral health risks. This is why MyPerioPath is a trusted partner and affiliate in Dr. Marra’s practice.

Why Oral DNA Testing Matters for Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease often has a genetic component, meaning it can run in families. However, it is also heavily influenced by lifestyle and daily habits.

Common signs of periodontal disease include:

  • Inflamed or bleeding gums
  • Gum recession
  • Loose teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Jaw pain
  • Dry mouth

Early detection through oral DNA testing allows for targeted treatment before symptoms worsen.

Oral DNA Testing and Chronic Illness Patients

Sleep regulation occurs primarily in the hypothalamus, a small but critical brain region responsible for coordinating transitions For patients with complex conditions such as Lyme disease, Bartonella infections, and Mold (mycotoxin) illness, oral DNA testing becomes even more important.

The oral cavity can act as a reservoir for bacteria like Borrelia and Bartonella, as well as mold. These infections can significantly increase inflammation and make oral hygiene more difficult to maintain.

The Bacteria Detected by MyPerioPath

MyPerioPath categorizes bacteria into risk levels to help guide treatment decisions.

High-Risk Pathogens

  • Aggregibacter actinomycetemcomitans
  • Porphyromonas gingivalis
  • Tannerella forsythia
  • Treponema denticola

Moderate-Risk Pathogens

  • Eubacterium nodatum
  • Fusobacterium nucleatum/periodonticum
  • Prevotella intermedia
  • Campylobacter rectus
  • Peptostreptococcus (Micromonas) micros

Low-Risk Pathogens

  • Eikenella corrodens
  • Capnocytophaga species (gingivalis, ochracea, sputigena)

Understanding which bacteria are present allows for personalized treatment strategies.

Who Should Consider Oral DNA Testing?

Oral DNA testing is especially beneficial for:

  • Patients with chronic illness
  • Individuals with frequent cavities or dental work (crowns, implants)
  • People with diabetes or cardiovascular disease
  • Cancer patients
  • Pregnant individuals

If you fall into one of these categories, early detection can help prevent complications and improve overall health outcomes. Not sure if you qualify? Schedule a time to consult with Dr. Marra.

How the MyPerioPath Test Works

The MyPerioPath test is simple and convenient:

  1. Collect saliva at home
  2. Spit into the provided test tube
  3. Mail the sample to the lab
  4. Receive a detailed report

Your provider will review the results and recommend any necessary changes to improve your oral health.

Supporting Your Oral Health Daily

In addition to oral DNA testing, maintaining proper oral hygiene is critical.

Daily habits to reduce risk:

  • Use a water flosser (Waterpik)
  • Brush twice daily with an electric or soft-bristle toothbrush
  • Floss daily
  • Rinse with warm salt water or antimicrobial mouthwash

For dry mouths (often caused by antibiotics), consider:

  • Xylimelts
  • ACT lozenges

These can help prevent enamel erosion and bacterial buildup.

Why Oral DNA Testing Is Important for Whole-Body Health

Oral health is deeply connected to overall wellness. For patients with chronic illness, untreated oral infections can act as a barrier to healing.

By using oral DNA testing, you can:

  • Identify hidden infections
  • Reduce systemic inflammation
  • Support your long-term health goals

Schedule Your Oral DNA Testing Appointment 

If you’re interested in oral DNA testing with MyPerioPath, Dr. Marra can help you get started. Call 206-299-2676 to speak with our team about ordering your test, or visit our site. Take control of your oral and overall health today—schedule your appointment and get personalized insights with oral DNA testing.

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Change Your Vibe

Written on . Posted in Articles, General Information, Treatments.

Change Your Vibe

🌟 Change Your Vibe

Emotional Recovery and Nervous System Support During Treatment

Recovering from tick-borne disease, mold exposure, or long COVID can be physically exhausting — but the emotional toll is just as real. Fear, guilt, anxiety, and depression are common, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or hopeless.

That’s why elevating your emotional state daily is a vital part of the healing journey. You have the power to change your internal environment, even when the external feels out of control.

💛 Identify Your Personal Uplifters

Make time each day for simple actions that restore balance and joy. These activities raise your internal vibration, reduce stress hormones, and re-center your nervous system.

Try incorporating:

  • 🎶 Listening to music
  • 🧘‍♀️ Meditation or breathwork
  • 🧩 Play and games
  • 🌳 Walking in nature
  • ☕ Coffee with a friend
  • 🎨 Art projects or crafting
  • 📚 Reading or journaling
  • 🎬 A good movie or stand-up comedy
  • 😂 Laughter — the best medicine
  • 🎭 Practicing gratitude daily

The more consistent you are, the more you’ll notice these practices speeding up your recovery and creating more emotional resilience — not just now, but for life.

🧠 Train Your Brain to Heal

Healing isn’t just physical — it’s neurological. Several programs can help reset your stress response and promote calm, clarity, and control:

💻 Dynamic Neural Retraining System (DNRS)

by Annie Hopper
🔗 www.retrainingthebrain.com
Great for managing PTSD, chronic illness-related stress, and limbic system dysfunction.

💻 Gupta Program: Amygdala Retraining

by Ashok Gupta
🔗 www.guptaprogram.com
Helpful for post-infection recovery and nervous system rewiring.

💻 Primal Trust

by Cathleen King
🔗 www.primaltrust.org
Integrative neuroplasticity training focused on healing trauma, illness, and dysregulation.

💻 The Lightning Process

by Amanda Ashley
🔗 www.amanda-ashley.com
Mind-body training focused on rewiring chronic stress responses.

🎵 Vagus Nerve Calming Exercises

Your vagus nerve (cranial nerve 10) plays a huge role in calming your nervous system. Try incorporating these into your daily routine:

  • 😝 Gag reflex stimulation (gentle, daily)
  • 🌀 Gargling vigorously
  • 🎤 Singing with deep, resonant tones
  • 🧘‍♂️ Humming mindfully

Also, consider:

🎧 Final Prescription:

Listen to “Thank You” by Ben Rector — and notice how gratitude can shift everything.
Let that vibration become your medicine.

A woman sitting on a couch applies pain relief cream to her inflamed, red knee, looking concerned.

Topical Pain Relief Options

Written on . Posted in Articles, Bartonella, Coinfections, Conditions Caused by Tick-borne Illness, Lyme Disease, Treatments.

A human skeleton with major joints highlighted in red, indicating areas of pain or inflammation, set against a dark blue background.

Topical Pain Relief Options

Topical pain relievers can be a helpful part of managing discomfort caused by inflammation, especially when systemic treatments aren’t tolerated or additional support is needed. Dr. Marra often recommends the following trusted products for localized relief:

🌼 Arnica Montana 6X (Homeopathic)

A natural remedy known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Often used to relieve:

  • Bruising
  • Muscle soreness
  • Joint pain

💨 Bengay Pain Relieving Cream

Recommended especially for MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome) due to its menthol and methyl salicylate content. It may help:

  • Reduce localized inflammation
  • Relieve muscle and joint stiffness
  • Improve circulation in the affected area

🐍 Cobroxin

A homeopathic formula derived from cobra venom peptides, known to support:

  • Moderate to severe chronic pain
  • Neuropathic discomfort
  • Anti-inflammatory activity without narcotics

❄️ Uncle Herb’s Icy Pot Medicated Salve

A natural salve that combines cooling herbs and essential oils. Ideal for:

  • Sore muscles and joints
  • Post-activity recovery
  • Gentle, herbal relief without harsh chemicals
Two human body outlines display temperature zones: the left figure shows colder areas in blue and green on extremities and warmer red/yellow areas on the torso; the right figure is mostly red, indicating uniform warmth. A temperature scale is included.

Low Core Body Temp

Written on . Posted in Articles, Conditions Caused by Tick-borne Illness, General Information, Lyme Disease, Treatments.

Low Core Body Temp

Low Core Body Temperature (less than 97.0 degrees F)

Green virus-like particles with spherical shapes and spike-like projections are shown against a dark background, representing microscopic pathogens or germs.
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Many patients who suffer from chronic Lyme Disease and coinfections or chronic complex illness, also suffer from a low core body temperature (less than 97.0 degrees F). Sometimes this cold body temperature is due to hypothyroidism, which is relatively easy to diagnose with blood tests and a thermometer, an easily treated with some combination of T3 and T4 sustained release capsules.

However, sometimes a low core body temperature is due to the build up of toxins in the blood that causes the blood to become thick and viscous and unable to flow through arterial vessels and capillary beds. The lack of proper blood flow results in lowered oxygen concentrations to tissues, and therefore the body begins to become “cold”, and rigor mortis sets in, similar to what is seen in death. The absence of oxygenated tissues means the body will be cold.

Two human body outlines display temperature zones: the left figure shows colder areas in blue and green on extremities and warmer red/yellow areas on the torso; the right figure is mostly red, indicating uniform warmth. A temperature scale is included.
#image_title

Frequent and proper daily detoxification in Epsom salt baths coupled with 30 minutes of full body movement (i.e., walking, dance, yoga, Pilates, biking, trampoline, etc…), to exercise the muscle fibers and mobilize cellular waste and toxins in EXTREMELY important. Infra red saunas, hot baths, etc… are also important to elevate the core body temperature. This is why nearly all chronically ill patients feel better in warmer climates. If the core body temperature is too low, blood cannot properly flow to tissues, especially to the periphery, and the vital force of the patient is compromised. This is why patients with a low body temperature appear sluggish, fatigued, weak, and depressed.

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Revolutionize Your Healing with Firefly Red Light Laser Technology 

Written on . Posted in Articles, Red Light Therapy, Treatments.

We’re thrilled to announce a cutting-edge addition to our wellness services: the Firefly red light laser. Developed by Dr. Maurice Bales of Bales Photonics, this advanced technology is now available exclusively at the office of Dr. Susan L. Marra, making us the only provider on the Kitsap Peninsula to offer this medical-grade red light laser therapy. We’re proud to be the only provider in the region offering this powerful, medical-grade red light laser therapy. Read on to learn what it is, how it works, and whether it might be the right fit for your health goals, plus how to book your first appointment!

What Is the Firefly Red Light Laser?

The Firefly red light laser is a revolutionary form of red light therapy that uses specific wavelengths to stimulate deep tissue healing, reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and regenerate mitochondria—the powerhouse of the cell. It is 10x more powerful than traditional LED technology – as powerful as Class IV lasers. Unlike traditional red light beds, this laser offers targeted, physician-grade precision for more effective treatment of both surface and deep tissues.

How Does Red Light Laser Therapy Work?

Red light falls within the near-infrared (625–750 nm) and far-infrared (750–1100 nm) spectrum. While near-infrared light treats surface tissues, far-infrared light penetrates deeper layers, including muscle and bone. The red light is absorbed by mitochondria, specifically the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase, which then triggers a chemical reaction that boosts ATP production—fuel for cellular repair and regeneration.

Proven Benefits of Firefly Red Light Laser Therapy

The Firefly red light laser has shown effectiveness in a wide range of clinical and wellness applications:

  • Accelerates wound healing
  • Promotes increased blood circulation
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Stimulates ATP production
  • Enhances tissue regeneration
  • Encourages hair growth

Conditions That May Improve with Red Light Laser Therapy

Due to its broad cellular benefits, this therapy may support treatment for:

  • Diabetes and circulatory issues
  • Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease
  • IBS and digestive inflammation
  • Sinusitis, bursitis, and arthritis
  • Bone injuries and fractures
  • Gingivitis and mouth ulcers
  • Dermatitis, fungal infections, and parasites
    Autoimmune imbalances
  • Muscle pain and fatigue
  • Insomnia and stress-related conditions

Firefly Red Light Laser vs. Traditional Red Light Therapy

Unlike generalized red light therapy (e.g., red light beds), the Firefly red light laser delivers precise, high-intensity light to a focused area. This allows for deep tissue penetration, enabling it to assist with more complex issues such as bone repair, chronic inflammation, and even cellular detoxification.

Is Firefly Red Light Laser Safe?

This is a medical-grade device that must be operated by a trained physician or certified light therapist due to potential risks like tissue or eye damage. At our office, all sessions are carefully supervised. We start slow, typically 2–15 minutes per session, to ensure safety and optimal results.

However, red light laser therapy is not recommended for:

  • Individuals with active cancer
  • Those with epilepsy
  • Patients with infectious open wounds
  • Pregnant individuals
  • Anyone exposed without protective eyewear

Additionally, those with chronic infections may experience a Herxheimer reaction (detox symptoms due to pathogen die-off), which can be managed with guidance from our team.

Try Firefly Red Light Laser—Free First Session Available!

Dr. Marra is proud to be the first in the region to bring you this powerful, physician-exclusive healing modality. Whether you’re seeking recovery from injury, reducing inflammation, or managing chronic pain, the Firefly red light laser could be a transformative solution. Call us today at 206-299-2676 to schedule your free trial session and experience the healing power of red light laser for yourself. Read more of Dr. Marra’s blogs and find more patient resources now!

A medical device with a white control unit and two handheld applicators connected by cables, all placed on a purple surface with a purple background. The device emits blue light from the applicators.
A close-up of a persons skin showing a red, irritated, and slightly swollen patch, possibly indicating a rash, bite, or skin infection. Fine body hair is visible around the affected area.

Ticks in Washington State: What You Need to Know and How to Protect Yourself

Written on . Posted in Articles, Lyme Disease, Treatments.

Ticks are a growing concern in Washington state, as they can be found in various regions across the state, especially in areas where deer reside. These tiny pests can carry dangerous diseases, such as Lyme disease, and pose a significant risk to humans, adolescents, and pets. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply enjoy spending time in your backyard, it’s important to know where ticks are most commonly found and how to protect yourself from them.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the tick hotspots in Washington state, how to repel them, and natural ways to stay safe during your outdoor adventures.

Where Are Ticks Found in Washington State?

Ticks are not confined to one specific part of Washington. They can be found throughout the state, but they are especially prevalent in areas where deer populations are high, as deer serve as the primary hosts for adult ticks. Some of the key locations where ticks are commonly found include:

  • Kitsap Peninsula: This area, including towns like Poulsbo, Bremerton, Silverdale, and Bainbridge Island, has a high tick population due to its deer habitats.
  • Pierce County
  • Jefferson County
  • Snohomish County
  • Skagit County
  • King County
  • Southern Washington (around Longview)

Ticks are also found in more rural and forested areas, so outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and even gardening can expose you to potential tick encounters.

Understanding the Risks: Diseases Spread by Ticks

Ticks in Washington state can carry a range of diseases, the most common being Lyme disease. While not every tick is infected, it’s important to be cautious. Lyme disease can cause symptoms like Q fever, chills, joint pain, and fatigue, and in severe cases, it can lead to long-term health complications if not treated promptly.

Another disease to be aware of is Anaplasmosis, which can cause flu-like symptoms. The risk of these diseases makes it essential to take proper precautions when spending time outdoors.

How to Protect Yourself from Ticks

Preventing tick bites is the most effective way to protect yourself from tick-borne diseases. There are several methods you can use to keep ticks at bay:

1. Use Tick Repellents

One of the most common ways to repel ticks in Washington is by using chemical repellents like DEET or Permethrin. Both are effective at keeping ticks away, but they should be used with caution:

  • DEET: Effective at repelling ticks, but it can be toxic if used frequently or in high concentrations, particularly for children or pets. It is not recommended for daily use.
  • Permethrin: A pesticide that can be applied to clothing and gear. It’s effective for treating clothing and gear, but avoid applying it directly to your skin.

Although these chemical options are effective, they should be used sparingly, as overuse can be harmful, especially to the brain and nervous system.

2. Natural Tick Repellents

If you prefer a more natural approach, there are several essential oils known to repel ticks. Some of the most effective options include:

  • Lemon Balm
  • Eucalyptus
  • Tea Tree Oil
  • Cedarwood Oil

These oils can be applied to your skin or used in sprays. For maximum protection, douse your clothing well, as the scent of these oils can create an environment that is unappealing to ticks. By doing so, you essentially “smell like” essential oils, which ticks tend to avoid.

3. Wear Protective Clothing

When venturing into tick-prone areas, it’s essential to wear protective clothing. Consider the following tips:

  • Wear long pants and sleeves to reduce the risk of ticks crawling onto your skin.
  • Tuck your pants into your socks to create a barrier and prevent ticks from climbing up your legs.
  • Wear light-colored clothing, which makes it easier to spot ticks.

In addition, consider treating your clothing with permethrin, which can be purchased in spray form or pre-treated clothing.

Tick-Proofing Your Yard 

If you live in an area where ticks are prevalent, consider taking steps to make your yard less hospitable to them. Here are some suggestions:

  • Keep grass short and trim any bushes or shrubs to reduce tick habitats.
  • Create a barrier between wooded areas and your lawn using wood chips or gravel.
  • Remove any leaf litter or debris from your yard where ticks may be hiding.
  • Consider treating your yard with tick-repelling products, such as sprays or natural treatments like diatomaceous earth.

Seeking Expert Care for Lyme Disease in Washington State? Consult Dr. Susan Marra

Ticks are an important concern for anyone spending time outdoors in Washington state, but with the right precautions, you can reduce your risk of tick bites and the diseases they carry. Whether you’re using chemical repellents or essential oils, wearing protective clothing, or tick-proofing your yard, it’s essential to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect yourself.

If you’ve been bitten by a tick or are concerned about the risks of Lyme disease, it’s always a good idea to consult a specialist. Dr. Susan Marra, a leading Lyme disease expert in the Seattle area, is dedicated to providing accurate diagnoses and effective treatments for tick-borne illnesses. If you’re in Washington state and need guidance or treatment, contact us to learn more about or call to book an appointment.

Stay safe, take precautions, and enjoy all that Washington’s beautiful outdoor areas have to offer!

Disclaimer The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained in these videos is for informational purposes only.  It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician before undertaking a new healthcare regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen, read, or heard in these videos.

Bullseye rash images

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Why Authentic Clinical Excellence in Medical Matters for Lyme Disease and Mycotoxin Illness Treatment

Written on . Posted in Articles, General Information, Patient Resources, Treatments, Uncategorized.

A smiling woman with long blonde hair and glasses hugs a happy, light-colored French Bulldog wearing a black vest while standing behind a wooden surface indoors.

Why Authentic Clinical Excellence in Medical Matters for Lyme Disease and Mycotoxin Illness Treatment

When it comes to managing complex chronic conditions like Lyme disease or mycotoxin illness, it’s crucial to seek out clinicians who demonstrate authentic excellence in their field. Unfortunately, many individuals end up with inadequate care because anyone can claim to treat Lyme disease without necessarily having the knowledge or expertise to do so effectively.

As a doctor who has been in the field for over 32 years, I have seen the fallout of this all too often. Patients who are misdiagnosed can receive improper treatment simply because their doctor doesn’t have the experience to accurately interpret diagnostic tests. For example, one common mistake I see is clinicians who misinterpret a Lyme Disease Western blot. Some mistakenly believe that Band 41 is an indication of a positive Lyme test result, but this is NOT the case. Band 41 is nonspecific and does not confirm Lyme disease.

What to Look for When Choosing a Trusted Lyme or Mycotoxin Illness Specialist

If you’re seeking clinical excellent-quality treatment for Lyme disease or mycotoxin illness, I strongly recommend doing your due diligence before selecting a provider. Make sure to choose a clinician with a proven track record of success in treating these conditions. Ideally, the doctor you select should have at least 10-15 years of experience in the field of chronic infections, Lyme disease, and mycotoxin illness.

An experienced doctor will be able to:

  • Accurately interpret Lyme disease diagnostic tests, including Western blots.
  • Understand the complexity of chronic Lyme and mycotoxin-related illness.
  • Provide an evidence-based, personalized treatment approach.

Why Dr. Susan Marra is a Great Choice for Treating Lyme Disease and Mycotoxin Illness

If you’re looking for a clinically excellent, experienced, compassionate, and skilled clinician to guide you through the complexities of Lyme disease or mycotoxin illness, Dr. Susan Marra is the right choice. With over 32 years of experience in the healthcare industry, she specializes in the treatment of chronic, hard-to-diagnose conditions, including Lyme Disease, Morgellon disease, and mycotoxin illness.

Dr. Marra’s approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the immune system, chronic infections, and holistic care. She is committed to personalized, patient-centered treatment plans designed to address the underlying causes of your illness and not just the symptoms.

Dr. Marra’s expertise in interpreting Lyme disease tests and her holistic treatment protocols give her patients the best chance at healing and regaining their quality of life. Hear from our satisfied patients now!
If you’re ready to take the next step in addressing Lyme disease or mycotoxin illness, contact Dr. Marra today to learn more about how she can help. You can contact us online or call 206-299-2676.

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PTSD and Lyme Disease

Written on . Posted in Articles, Conditions Caused by Tick-borne Illness, Lyme Disease, Treatments.

A teal ribbon with the words PTSD AWARENESS written diagonally across it, symbolizing support and awareness for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Most patients with chronic illness who have been repeatedly misdiagnosed, and virtually unheard, wind up with some form of PTSD and adrenal exhaustion. The fight to be heard, find a competent practitioner, receive proper and attentive care, is no small feat in this fast paced world, and is much more difficult for the severely ill. Sadly, this component of Lyme Disease is not very well recognized. This is really similar to the PTSD a soldier experiences once he/she is home from a war. The emotional, physical, psychological, and spiritual toll on the body is very significant. Although the war might be over, there are substantial lingering effects of the struggles that occurred during healing.

I encourage my patients to seek counseling from someone who understands the debilitating effects of chronic illness. Reiki, massage, acupuncture, energy healing, spa visits, and EMDR may be very helpful to patients who are unable to shake off the trauma that they endured during their struggle with Lyme Disease.

A sunny beach scene with clear blue water, seashells, and starfish scattered on the sandy shore. The sunlight reflects on the ocean, creating a bright and tranquil atmosphere.

Many patients also choose to do a yoga retreat in Hawaii, Bali, etc…to regain their balance in life during and/or after treatment. Island trip (i.e., Hawaii, Caribbean), also help patients regain a sense of nature and joy which was lost during their battle with chronic illness.

Please consult with Dr. Marra on ideas that may help minimize the effects of PTSD from chronic disease related to tick-borne illness. Having had the disease herself, she understands on a personal level the battles you face during treatment and after treatment.

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Antibiotic Controversy

Written on . Posted in Articles, General Information, Treatments.

In the 18+ years that Dr. Marra has been practicing tick-borne disease illness, there has been great controversy over the use of antibiotics in the treatment of these stealth and persistent infections. She doesn’t think the answer to this controversy is any easier today than it was 20 or 40 years ago. However, over the years, she has seen a trend in the degree of illness that presents in the practice. Patients are MUCH sicker now than they were 20 years ago when she was practicing in Connecticut, and most patients have multiple infections.

In her own journey nearly 14+ years ago battling Lyme Disease and Bartonella, she chose to take an Integrated Medicine approach to healing because she felt that it was her best chance of eradicating the infections, while supporting her body along the way. Not all patients make this choice. Some prefer to use ONLY diet modifications, herbal remedies, Rife machines, and a variety of other healing modalities that are consistent with their belief systems. Dr. Marra chose a combination therapy approach which worked very well for her, but you may not want to, and that’s a personal choice.

In her experience with treating thousands of patients with tick-borne illness, she has not found patients to become affected by long-term antibiotic use, if they are used properly. Frequent rotation of antibiotics, pulsing techniques, timing and dosing changes, with multiple probiotic sources has proved time and again, to be the quickest way out of the Lyme Disease maze of symptoms. Her patient’s recoveries are also significantly influenced by diet choices, hydration, immune system status, genetic predispositions, hormone balancing, detoxification, and a myriad of other factors.

Without question there is a group of patients who simply cannot handle antibiotics for various reasons largely having to do with histamine status and detoxification pathways. In these cases, her patients use herbal formulas that absolutely work, just not as fast. Targeted nutritional medicine is also very helpful in supporting healing.

The point is simply this, as a long time steward of antibiotic use for patients with tick-borne illness, Dr. Marra has not seen any long term damage for their use, provided they are used correctly. She is not suggesting that patients go on lifelong antibiotics because that is not the answer either. Rather, there is a variety of treatments that can be very beneficial to patients, as long as precautions are taken.

In our practice, Dr. Marra has patients on herbs, antibiotics, nutritional’s, diets, detox protocols, and everything in between because she believes you need to do what works, and what works for one patient may not work for the next. An individual and tailored treatment that reflects a well thought out plan for return to function is, in her opinion, the only way to heal from multiple tick-borne disease. Dr. Marra speaks here from both a personal and professional position which hopefully sheds a ray of hope on your condition.

A cross-section of a blood vessel with red blood cells inside, surrounded by illustrated ozone (O3) molecules and icons of viruses and bacteria, representing a medical or scientific concept.

Ozone for Tick-Borne Disease, Mold Illness, and COVID

Written on . Posted in Articles, Bartonella, Environmental Illness, Lyme Disease, Mold Exposure, Treatments.

Ozone (O3) is a powerful oxidant gas and is found in the earth’s atmosphere. It has antimicrobial properties and may be beneficial in the treatment of infections.

I personally went to Mexico 18 years ago to receive ozone treatment after finishing antibiotic therapy for Lyme Disease and Bartonella. While I had high hopes that the ozone would completely eradicate my infections, I was wrong. Subsequent testing after treatment yielded positive Lyme Disease and Bartonella tests.

I do, however, encourage patients to do an 8 or 10 pass ozone therapy AFTER finishing antimicrobials, antifungals, or antivirals, because I believe that ozone heals the endothelium of vessels that were damaged by infection and/or mycotoxins. Please, remember: OZONE SHOULD NOT BE A SUBSTITUTE for proper antimicrobial, antifungal, or antiviral treatment. It should be considered an add-on therapy and administered by a qualified health care provider. Please call my office at (206) 299-2676 for references for qualified physicians who perform this treatment.

Illustration of a large virus-like particle, a shield blocking it, and healthy cells. Chemical structure and text “KETOTIFEN” suggest the drug protects cells from viral or allergic attack.

Ketotifen Use in Tick-Borne Illness

Written on . Posted in Environmental Illness, General Information, Treatments.

Ketotifen Use in Tick-Borne Illness

Ketotifen is a second-generation noncompetitive H1 antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer with probable anti-inflammatory properties. It may also have anti-cholinergic and anti-serotonergic properties that contribute to its overall beneficial effect in certain patients.

It is a compounded oral capsule taken with meals and may be useful in the treatment of the following conditions:

  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Autism
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
  • MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome)
  • SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)
  • Urticaria

Patients with “GI Lyme Disease” generally find that ketotifen helps with symptoms of gas and bloating. For more information on whether or not this might be useful to you in your treatment, please discuss this with Dr. Marra in your office appointment.

Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)

Written on . Posted in Lyme Disease, Treatments.

Episode 44: LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) and Lyme

Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) in Tick-borne Illness

Naltrexone is an old drug originally used to help patients wean off of alcohol and heroin and other opiate medications. However, low dose Naltrexone (LDN – 3-4.5mg) has been found to be very helpful to some patients with chronic pain and low immune function, in particular chronic Lyme Disease patients.

LDN works by boosting endorphin levels in the body (the feel good molecules associated with runners high), and thereby alleviating pain. Additionally, endorphins are excellent molecules for immune modulation. LDN binds to the opiate receptors primarily in the brain, blocking endogenous endorphin attachment. The body responds by producing more endorphins, which not only helps to alleviate chronic pain, but also boosts natural killer cells and some T and B cells of the immune system.

LDN may be useful for patients suffering from:

  • ALS
  • Alzheimer Disease
  • Autism
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Lupus
  • Lyme Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Parkinson Disease
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Ulcerative Colitis

Vivid dreams have been reported by some patients taking LDN, but generally speaking, there are very few side effects from this low dose.

For more information on LDN use in chronic tick-borne illness, please contact Dr. Marra and she will be happy to discuss its use in your particular health issues.

Black and white close-up image showing sharp, angular crystal structures clustered together, resembling geometric shapes under a microscope.

Oxalates and Kidney Stones

Written on . Posted in Coinfections, Lyme Disease, Nutrition, Treatments.

Oxalates are molecules found in certain foods such as spinach and cashews that are formed as the combination end product of several amino acids such as serine, glycine, and ascorbic acid, that can combine with calcium (a naturally occur ion in the blood also from food) in the blood to form calcium oxalate crystals. Foods that contain more than 100g of oxalates per serving include (but this IS NOT an exhaustive list):

  • Beets
  • Rhubarb
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Carrots
  • Spinach
  • Tofu
  • Rice Bran
  • Almonds
  • Snap Beans
  • Cashews
  • Soybeans
  • Quinoa
  • Blackberries
  • Blueberries
  • Figs
  • Plum
  • Raspberry
  • Tangerine
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Eggplant
  • Kale

These oxalate crystals are needle shaped crystals called raphides. They are readily absorbed after ingestion, cannot be metabolized by mammals, and are largely eliminated through renal excretion. Calcium oxalate crystals get filtered by the glomeruli in the kidney unless they are large, and then they become “stuck” in the nephrons and form kidney stones, especially if you have the genetic propensity. Oxalates are toxic to the renal epithelial cells and can cause membrane injury. The common upper limit of normal for oxalate excretion is 45mg/day (0.5mmol/day). Chronic vitamin C oral use can also cause hyperoxaluria and kidney stones. 

Kidney stones are EXTREMELY painful, and the symptoms associated with them are as following:

SEVERE and sudden onset pain on the abdomen sides or low back

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Blood in the urine
  • Cloudy urine

Small kidney stones can be passed in the urine, but larger ones greater than 9mm must be treated with lithotripsy (a procedure where a skilled physician blasts the stones into pieces for excretion, or surgery). The pain associated with kidney stones is very significant and usually requires pain management by the ER.

To check for oxalate crystals in the urine, you can have your doctor order a 24 hour urine oxalate test through Labcorp or Quest, and this will reveal urinary levels and the presence of toxicity.

Treatment for calcium oxalate crystals is largely dietary. You’ll need to go on a low oxalate diet, and read the book “Toxic Superfoods” by Sally Norton, MPH. She has some excellent information on how to change your diet if you are prone to kidney stones.

I was plagued by kidney stones 10 years ago from over eating spinach and cashews and the urologist NEVER told me to change my diet. After researching the subject, I found that you can lead a very normal life IF you curb your diet from high oxalate foods, and drink at least 64oz of water with electrolytes every day.

Professional Health Products has two supplements, Oxalate Scavenger, and Oxalate Balancer that contain nutrients such as: Calcium citrate, Magnesium orotate, vitamin B6 (P5P) or Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc citrate with P5P which will bind the oxalate crystals.

Kidney stones are no fun and you can avoid them simply by being mindful with your diet. Find a list with high oxalate containing foods, and remove the top 10-15 of them completely from your diet and that should do the trick. Make sure you drink plenty of fresh water to cleanse the kidneys daily and you should be just fine.

Of note, it is my observation that patients with Bartonella are much more likely to develop kidney stones although to date, this is an anecdotal observation. I happen to be one of these patients.

Microscopic view showing multiple small, irregularly shaped crystals and particles scattered on a light purple background, resembling uric acid crystals in a urine sample.
Black and white close-up image showing sharp, angular crystal structures clustered together, resembling geometric shapes under a microscope.

Dr. Bob Bransfield – Neuropsychiatric Manifestations of Tick Borne Infections

Written on . Posted in Recommended Videos, Treatments.

CRYPTO-INFECTIONS CONFERENCE 2023

LYME DISEASE & OTHER HIDDEN INFECTIONS: MICROBIAL PERSISTENCE

Robert C. Bransfield, MD, DLFAPA

The Third international ‘CryptoConference’ was held in Dublin Ireland June 17th to 18th 2023. ‘Crypto’ refers to occult infections which are hard to diagnose and hard to treat. The theme of the third conference is ‘microbial persistence’, which is the way that these occult infections evade the immune system and evade routine diagnostic techniques. We invited a range of clinicians and basic scientists from the USA, Canada, and throughout the European Union, to spend two days in Dublin. The topics to be addressed include Borrelia, Bartonella, Babesia, and a range of other microbial pathogens. Lectures provided will appeal to primary care doctors (general practitioners) on the subject of Lyme and Long COVID, as well as more basic science lectures that will appeal to bench researchers as well as clinicians.

The Importance of Probiotics

Written on . Posted in Lyme Disease, Treatments.

The importance of probiotics while undergoing Lyme Disease treatment cannot be underestimated. The human microbiome is composed of trillions of different bacteria that live harmoniously and perform various necessary physiological functions, especially in the intestines. These bacteria have specific nutritional needs just as we do to sustain life. Additionally, endogenous bacteria generally do not cause disease, unless the bio-terrain is altered by other infectious organisms, antibiotics, or poor diet. In this case, your “garden” becomes a “garden of weeds.”

While antibiotics are necessary to eradicate Lyme Disease and co-infections in most patients, great care should be taken to maintain a healthy microbiome while undergoing treatment. A plant-based diet low in carbohydrates and plenty of water keeps inflammation at a minimum so that the antibiotics can work optimally to kill pathogenic organisms.

But make no mistake…this is risky business because antibiotics not only kill the bad organisms, they also kill the good ones. Therefore, high-dose, diverse, probiotics should be taken alongside antibiotic therapy without question. Some of these can include:

Lactobacillus acidophilus

Lactobacillus brevis

Lactobacillus plantarum

Bifidobacterium lactis

Bifidobacterium longum

Saccharomyces boulardii

Additionally, pre-biotics in the form of FOS (fructooligosaccharides) may be necessary to balance the gut flora.

As you age, your gut microbiome becomes increasingly less able to optimally function. This gets exacerbated when you have multiple infections affecting the mucosa.

Methylene Blue

Written on . Posted in Treatments.

Methylene Blue is an old drug (circa 1876) used to treat methemoglobinemia and cyanide poisoning.  It is a thiazine dye and turns your urine blue, but generally is very well tolerated. Some patients like to use red spectrum light with methylene blue, especially for treating plaque psoriasis.

It works by converting ferric iron in hemoglobin to ferrous iron.  It also has anti-inflammatory properties and is currently under research investigation for the treatment of persistent Bartonella with promising results.

The only caveat is that you must be tested for G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase) deficiency to ensure that enzyme levels are normal, prior to beginning treatment.

A curved splash of clear blue water is shown mid-air on a white background, with droplets scattering along the edges of the fluid motion.

Sleep and Insomnia

Written on . Posted in Treatments.

A bright crescent moon is visible in a clear, dark blue night sky, with detailed surface textures on the illuminated portion.

Sleep is critical for healing, particularly deep sleep. During sleep, the body alternates between REM sleep and non-REM sleep.  During REM or deep sleep, you dream, and dreaming is thought to be the way that the mind processes information. During sleep, most of the body’s systems are in an anabolic state, helping to restore the immune, nervous, muscular, and skeletal systems.  Sleep is also the time that the brain detoxes through its glymphatic system.

Insomnia is a common symptom of tick-borne disease and is characterized by an inability to fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake refreshed.  This has to be treated right away so that you can get 8-10 hours of restful sleep a night.  

There are many supplements that can help with sleep 30 minutes before bed includes:

  • Melatonin (1-4 mg)
  • Phosphatidylserine (100-400 mg)
  • L-Theanine (750 mg)
  • DMG (Dimethylglycine) (100 mg)
  • GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) (1000 mg)
  • Valerian (100 mg)
  • Progesterone (25 mg – 100 mg)
  • 5-HTP (50 mg – 100 mg)

There are also several peptides that are sleep aids including:

  • Epitalon
  • DSIP (Delta sleep-inducing peptide)

Lastly, medications that can help with sleep include:

  • Trazodone
  • Quetiapine
  • Diphenhydramine
  • Doxepin
  • Hydroxyzine
stages of sleep

Detoxification

Written on . Posted in Treatments.

Detoxification is a natural property of the human body and includes urination, defecation, sweating, and breathing. Food and liquids that we eat and drink respectively contain many components for which the body cannot use and are therefore eliminated as waste. This is a homeostatic component of our physiology that allows “balance” to be maintained in the body.

The liver, kidneys, colon, and lungs are the organs responsible for carrying out detox activity in the body. However, the liver bears most of this burden in filtering blood. Nature has designed four elaborate detoxification pathways that include: sulfation, glucuronidation, acetylation, and glycation. These pathways must operate with ease in order for the liver to filter contaminants in the blood such as spirochetal excrement, dead spirochetes, and known toxins such as Bb Tox 1, ammonia, and Quinolinic acid. If these toxins are not removed from the body, they accumulate causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage which augments illness and may contribute significantly to chronic infectious illness.

detoxification remedies

Healing Affirmations

Written on . Posted in Treatments.

Healing Affirmations are an incredibly powerful tool in the healing journey. One of the things that are so disheartening about chronic illness is that your spirit can become sick and depressed as well.  This complicates the healing journey substantially.  One way to keep your spirits high while you heal from chronic illness is to do daily affirmations that actually help you heal.  Below are affirmations that you can do or write in your journal to keep your spirits high:

  • I know that I am healing every day
  • My cells feel better and better every day
  • My infections are getting treated every day
  • I know that my body will be well very soon
  • I can feel my body healing every day
  • I am not sick. I am just having a bad day
  • I am just resting to allow my body to heal, which will happen quickly
  • I am so grateful for my herbs and medications that help me heal
  • I am so grateful that I can move, eat, and spend time with my family
  • I am so grateful that I still have a good attitude and goals that I want to accomplish

There are many books online with healing affirmations that you can purchase.  Do this daily, and it will make your healing time shorter. Psychoneuroimmunology is a significant factor in your return to health ad you are in control of that.

Another great way to start your day is with a gratitude journal. Every morning, write down 10 things that you are most grateful for and make them different every day. By doing this, you begin to change your frequency to a higher vibration which is always a better option when you are trying to heal from chronic illness.

healing affirmations
cannabis leaves

Cannabis for Lyme Symptoms

Written on . Posted in Treatments.

cannabis leaves

If you are having trouble managing the symptoms of Lyme disease or other co-infections, medical cannabis may be a treatment option for you. The anti-inflammatory properties of medical cannabis have been linked to providing potential relief for some of the symptoms of Lyme disease, as well as numerous mental benefits including some relief from anxiety and depression. The pain-relieving properties of medical marijuana make it a viable treatment for Lyme disease. Cannabis is a naturally occurring herb known for its relaxing and neurologically calming properties and has recently become available in Washington State for medicinal use. Cannabis contains Cannabidiol (CBD) which is the major non-psychoactive constituent of Cannabis sativa, and Delta 9 – tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which does affect mental acuity.

Cannabinoids promote neurogenesis and have neurological protective effects as well as pain-reducing effects on the body. Therefore, Cannabinoids may be very useful in the treatment of chronic tick-borne illness. The key is to use an extract that is high in CBD but low in THC, so that anti-inflammatory properties are maximized, and mental “dulling” properties are minimized.

If you would like to know more about Cannabinoids in the treatment of chronic tick-borne illness, please contact Dr. Marra. Not everyone is a candidate to use this herb, and so a detailed history and physical will be required to assess your eligibility for this treatment.

Herxheimer Reaction

Written on . Posted in Environmental Illness, Lyme Disease, Treatments.

The Herxheimer reaction (HERX) was originally noted in 1895 by Dr. Jarisch who worked with Syphilis (a spirochete) patients.  In the 21st century, we observe Herxheimer reactions in tick-borne illnesses such as Lyme Disease, also caused by a spirochete.  A Herxheimer reaction (Herx) typically occurs hours to days after antimicrobial administration and is thought to be the result of endotoxins released into the bloodstream by dying spirochetes.  The body’s immune system then responds to the endotoxins and the concurrent release of cytokines (i.e., tumor necrosis factor, interleukin 6, and interleukin 8) which are chemical messenger molecules of the immune system producing exaggerated symptoms lasting 3 days up to several weeks.

Dr. Marra doses antibiotics specifically for the individual patient so that the Herxheimer reaction on a scale of 1-10, is about a 5.  This is her own technique, and she feels that severe Herxheimer reactions over prolonged periods of time may cause tissue damage from the excessive release of endotoxins and cytokines.  Tissues become friable as a result of chronic inflammation, not unlike what happens when a sponge is repeatedly used and the surface area becomes frayed.  Dr. Marra is not convinced that this kind of tissue damage is reversible which is why she chooses to take the route of treatment that she does.  However, many other physicians choose to treat more aggressively and seem to have good results. This is simply her own treatment preference.

The general description of a Herxheimer reaction is a temporary increase in symptoms but may also include the development of completely new symptoms.  More specifically, the most common complaints of a Herx reaction are increased joint and muscle pain, headaches, chills, night sweats, fever (usually low grade), extreme fatigue, brain fog or lack of mental clarity, drop in blood pressure, hives, or a rash of some sort.  Worth noting here is that a rash or hives can sometimes be mistaken for an allergic reaction.  It is up to the treating physician to determine this, but with close, experienced observation and the use of Benadryl, Alka-Seltzer Gold, Quercetin, warm lemon water, and vitamin C (see Herx management), unnecessary premature cessation of antibiotics may be prevented.  In more severe cases of Herxheimer reactions, a reduction in the antibiotic dosage or cessation of the antimicrobials may be required.

The timing of a Herx reaction is very individualistic and can occur within days to weeks after the onset of antibiotic treatment.  In some patients, a Herxheimer reaction occurs only once or twice, or not at all throughout treatment.  It is clear, however, that as you move through the treatment and the spirochetal load becomes decreased, the Herx reactions become less and less severe.  Herxheimer reactions can also occur in cycles (usually 4-week cycles) and may be affected by the lunar cycle.  This is anecdotal but it is an interesting observation in some people.

About 70-80% of people undergoing Lyme Disease treatment with antibiotics experience some sort of Herxheimer reaction.  It is thought by a number of physicians and scientists that these people have difficulty in detoxification processes and that perhaps there may be a defect in one of the detox pathways in the liver.  This may be genetic, environmental, or a combination of both.  But without question, maintaining an alkaline diet and an  “alkaline bio terrain” helps lessen the effects of a Herx reaction.  The 20% of patients who do not experience a Herx reaction should not feel like they are getting nowhere by taking antibiotics.  Discussion of this issue should be left to the patient and their treating physician.

Check out our page about alkalizing foods.

The Importance of Probiotics

Written on . Posted in Lyme Disease, Treatments.

The importance of probiotics while undergoing Lyme Disease treatment cannot be underestimated. The human microbiome is composed of trillions of different bacteria that live harmoniously and perform various necessary physiological functions, especially in the intestines. These bacteria have specific nutritional needs just as we do to sustain life. Additionally, endogenous bacteria generally do not cause disease, unless the bio-terrain is altered by other infectious organisms, antibiotics, or poor diet. In this case, your “garden” becomes a “garden of weeds.”

While antibiotics are necessary to eradicate Lyme Disease and co-infections in most patients, great care should be taken to maintain a healthy microbiome while undergoing treatment. A plant based diet low in carbohydrates and plenty of water keeps inflammation at a minimum so that the antibiotics can work optimally to kill the pathogenic organisms.

But make no mistake…this is risky business because antibiotics not only kill the bad organisms, they also kill the good ones. Therefore, high dose, diverse, probiotics should be taken alongside antibiotic therapy without question. Some of these can include:

Lactobacillus acidophilus

Lactobacillus brevis

Lactobacillus plantarum

Bifidobacterium lactis

Bifidobacterium longum

Saccharomyces boulardii

Additionally, pre-biotics in the form of FOS (fructooligosaccharides) may be necessary to balance the gut flora.

As you age, your gut microbiome becomes increasingly less able to optimally function. This gets exacerbated when you have multiple infections affecting the mucosa.