Bartonella: The Sneaky Bacteria Behind Surprisingly Complex Symptoms

What do sudden anxiety attacks, unexplained weight loss, and crippling fatigue all have in common? They can all be caused by Bartonella – a stealthy, shape-shifting bacteria that often flies under the radar.?

In this blog post, we’ll dive into what Bartonella is, its puzzling symptoms, how it evades diagnosis, and the most effective strategies for treating and preventing this tricky infection. Let’s dive in.

What Is Bartonella? And How Do Humans Get Bartonella?

Bartonella is a type of bacteria that infects your cells – leading to a condition known as Bartonellosis. With over 20 different strains of Bartonella identified, at least 14 of these strains have been found to infect humans. Once inside your body, Bartonella primarily targets the cells lining your blood vessels and red blood cells – making itself at home within these critical components of your bloodstream.1

While Bartonella can infect many mammals, including domestic animals (like cats, dogs, horses, and cattle) it’s most often transmitted to humans through the bite of insect vectors like:2

• Ticks
• Fleas
• Lice
• Sandflies
• Red ants
• Spiders
• Bed bugs

These blood-sucking insects are the perfect vehicle for Bartonella to spread from host to host. But what makes Bartonella especially tricky, is what happens after this stealthy bacteria makes its way into your body.

Bartonella’s Stealthy Infection Strategy: How It Evades the Immune System

Bartonella is a master of stealth, using multiple strategies to evade detection, survive, and thrive within the body. Here’s how it pulls off its elusive infection process:3,4

1. Adhesion & Invasion: Bartonella first attaches itself to red blood cells, using them as entry points. It deforms and weakens the cells' structure, making it easier to slip inside and hide from the immune system. Once inside, it uses these cells as protective shields to move undetected throughout the body.
2. Persistence & Immune Evasion: Inside red blood cells, Bartonella avoids triggering a strong immune response. It further suppresses immune activity by releasing chemical signals that lower the body’s defenses, allowing the bacteria to persist and replicate without being attacked.
3. Biofilms & Fibrin Nests: To further complicate treatment, Bartonella builds protective barriers in the form of biofilms and fibrin nests. These structures create a shield around the bacteria, preventing immune cells and antibiotics from effectively reaching and destroying the infection. This contributes to the chronic and hard-to-treat nature of Bartonella infections.

This stealthy and deceptive strategy allows Bartonella to persist and spread within the body, making it a particularly tricky pathogen to diagnose and treat. Without the usual immune system alarms, this infection can remain hidden for long periods, contributing to chronic and often confusing symptoms.

Let’s zoom in on exactly what kind of symptoms this microscopic invader can cause.

Conditions and Symptoms Linked to Bartonella Infections

Bartonella infections are known to cause several identifiable conditions that can be diagnosed based on their distinct symptoms. Some of the most common include:5,6

• Cat-Scratch Disease: This occurs when a scratch or bite from an infected cat transmits Bartonella bacteria to humans. It often leads to swollen lymph nodes, fever, and fatigue, but most cases resolve without serious complications.
• Carrion's Disease: This condition, transmitted by sandflies, is characterized by two stages. The acute stage (Oroya fever) involves severe anemia due to red blood cell destruction, while the chronic stage causes red, wart-like skin lesions.
• Trench Fever: Spread by body lice, this condition primarily affects people in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions. Symptoms include recurrent fever, headaches, and bone pain, particularly in the shins, hence its other name, “shinbone fever.”
• Encephalopathy: In some cases, Bartonella can invade the brain, leading to encephalopathy, which is inflammation of the brain. This can result in confusion, seizures, and, in severe cases, permanent neurological damage.
• Pericarditis: This is inflammation of the pericardium, the protective sac around the heart. Bartonella can trigger this condition, causing chest pain, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, heart complications.
• Chronic Bacteremia: In some cases, Bartonella can persist in the bloodstream, leading to chronic bacteremia. This long-term infection can result in ongoing fatigue, fever, and other systemic symptoms as the bacteria circulate throughout the body.

While these conditions are well-known and relatively easier to diagnose, Bartonella infections are not always so straightforward. Let’s dive into the more elusive and less common presentations of Bartonella infections.

Complex Presentations Of Bartonella

While Bartonella infections are often associated with more recognizable conditions, the bacteria can also cause a range of vague and challenging symptoms. These symptoms can be elusive and easily mistaken for other health issues, making diagnosis particularly tricky. Here are some of the more complex manifestations of Bartonella infections:6,7,8

• Hallucinations: Some individuals with Bartonella infections may experience hallucinations. This symptom, which involves seeing or hearing things that aren’t there, is often a result of Bartonella affecting the brain and central nervous system. This can lead to significant confusion and distress – complicating both diagnosis and treatment.
• Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss can be a subtle sign of Bartonella infection. The bacteria can affect the body’s metabolic processes, leading to reduced appetite and significant weight loss over time. This symptom can be challenging to attribute to Bartonella without other clear indicators.
• Muscle Fatigue: Persistent muscle fatigue is another symptom that can be attributed to Bartonella. Affected individuals may feel an unusual and prolonged tiredness in their muscles, which can impact daily activities and overall quality of life.
• Partial Paralysis: In some cases, Bartonella can lead to neurological symptoms, including partial paralysis. This can affect specific areas of the body, leading to weakness or loss of function in limbs or other regions.
• Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) : Bartonella infections in children can sometimes present as PANS, a condition characterized by a sudden onset of severe neuropsychiatric symptoms – including obsessive-compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and mood swings. This condition is often mistaken for other neuropsychiatric disorders.
• Neurological Symptoms: Beyond hallucinations and partial paralysis, Bartonella can cause a range of neurological symptoms, such as headaches, cognitive difficulties, and sensory disturbances. These symptoms can be vague and overlap with other neurological conditions, making accurate diagnosis challenging.

Because of its ability to present with such a broad spectrum of symptoms, Bartonella infections are often mistaken for other conditions. These include:

• Long COVID : Many symptoms of Bartonella can overlap with those of long COVID, such as chronic fatigue, neurological issues, and muscle pain, leading to potential misdiagnosis.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) : The persistent fatigue and other systemic symptoms of Bartonella can resemble those of CFS, complicating the diagnostic process.
• Fibromyalgia : The diffuse pain and muscle fatigue associated with fibromyalgia can sometimes be attributed to Bartonella, especially when other symptoms are present.

So how on earth can this little bacteria cause such a wide variety of not only recognizable conditions but also a constellation of bizarre, difficult-to-pinpoint symptoms?

How Exactly Can Bartonella Trigger Such A Vast Variety Of Conditions And Symptoms?

The answer to this question lies in the unique and highly adaptable nature of Bartonella. This bacteria has developed several key mechanisms that allow it to not only invade your body but also affect it in a wide range of ways:

• Different Strains, Different Effects: There are over a dozen strains of Bartonella, each with unique characteristics. Some strains are more likely to cause specific conditions like cat-scratch disease, while others are tied to more severe or chronic manifestations like encephalopathy or trench fever. The diversity of these strains explains why Bartonella can present in so many different ways.
• Immune Evasion and Chronicity: As discussed earlier, Bartonella is a master of evading the immune system. This allows it to persist undetected for long periods, leading to chronic infections and widespread symptoms that range from mild to severe.
• Tropism for Various Tissues: Bartonella has a unique ability to infect multiple types of cells, particularly red blood cells and the endothelial cells lining your blood vessels. By spreading through these cell types, it can affect numerous organs and systems, leading to conditions that impact everything from the heart to the brain.
• Inflammatory Response: Bartonella can trigger significant inflammation in various parts of the body. This inflammation is the driving force behind many of the more recognizable conditions, like cat-scratch disease and Carrion’s disease. But it can also result in vague, hard-to-diagnose symptoms like muscle pain, fatigue, and neurological issues.
• Nervous System Involvement: Bartonella has a particular affinity for the nervous system, which can result in severe neurological symptoms, including hallucinations, partial paralysis, and PANS. This involvement in the nervous system is a key factor in why Bartonella often gets mistaken for other conditions like multiple sclerosis or even long COVID.
• Co-infections and Immune System Confusion: Bartonella infections often come hand-in-hand with other tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease or Babesia. These co-infections can further confuse the immune system, making it harder for your body to mount an effective defense, which in turn can lead to a broader range of symptoms.

With such tricky and diverse symptoms and conditions and an uncanny knack for flying under the radar, you’re probably curious if it’s possible to treat Bartonella and kick this stealthy bacteria to the curb.

Bartonella Treatment: Is Bartonella Curable?

Treating a Bartonella infection can be particularly challenging due to the bacteria’s deceptive nature and its ability to camouflage itself within your cells. Successfully eradicating Bartonella requires a multi-faceted approach, addressing both the actively replicating bacteria and the more elusive “persisters” that hide within your cells. Here’s a look at the most effective strategies currently available:9

Combination of Prescription and Herbal Antimicrobials:?

To combat Bartonella, treatment often requires a combination of prescription antibiotics and herbal antimicrobials. This multi-pronged approach targets both the actively replicating bacteria and the more elusive persisters – bacteria that are in a dormant state, hiding within your cells. These persisters can later reactivate, which makes it essential to address both forms for a thorough and lasting recovery.?

Here are some of the most effective antimicrobial combinations recommended for Bartonella treatment:

• First line antibiotic combinations: Clarithromycin + Rifampin or Rifabutin: This combination is commonly prescribed to attack both the active and persister forms of Bartonella. Clarithromycin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, while Rifampin or Rifabutin further prevents bacterial replication. Together, they form a powerful treatment to break down bacterial defenses and ensure more comprehensive coverage.
• Alternative antibiotics: Azithromycin or Doxycycline: For those who may not tolerate the first-line combination, alternatives like azithromycin or doxycycline may be considered. Azithromycin is effective in stopping bacterial growth, while doxycycline works by blocking the bacteria’s ability to produce proteins necessary for their survival.
• Methylene Blue (50 mg daily or more, under physician supervision): This medication is often used in combination with other antibiotics to target Bartonella persisters. Methylene blue has shown promise in breaking through bacterial resistance, particularly for chronic infections. To learn more about Methylene Blue, head over and read my article What Is Methylene Blue? A Look at Its Remarkable Health-Boosting Benefits . And you can check out my favorite brand of Methylene Blue, Troscriptions, by clicking right here .
• Herbals: Houttuynia, Sida acuta, or Liposomal cinnamon, clove, and oregano oil capsules: These herbal treatments offer strong antimicrobial activity against Bartonella, especially when used in conjunction with antibiotics. Houttuynia and Sida acuta are well-known for their effectiveness in traditional and herbal medicine, while liposomal cinnamon, clove, and oregano oils work by directly attacking the bacterial membranes, further enhancing the overall treatment.?
• NUTRAMEDIX Nutra-BRT: This herbal blend is designed to support the body’s defense against persistent infections, helping to bolster the immune response while also targeting the bacteria directly. It's a potent addition to any antimicrobial regimen, particularly in more complex cases. Click here to learn more about NUTRA-BRT .

This combination of prescription and herbal antimicrobials provides a great first line of defense, but works best when combined with some of the other suggestions listed below.

Biofilm Disruption:?

Some bacteria, including Bartonella, create protective barriers called biofilms, which shield them from the immune system and antibiotics. These biofilms make it harder for treatments to reach and eliminate the bacteria. To break down these barriers and expose the bacteria to antimicrobial agents, certain supplements and medications can be used. Here are some of the most effective options for biofilm disruption:

• SFI Interface Plus: This supplement works by binding to essential metals like calcium, iron, and magnesium – key elements bacteria use to build their protective biofilm shields. By disrupting the biofilm’s structure, SFI Interface Plus makes the bacteria more vulnerable to antibiotics and other treatments.
• NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) : NAC is a powerful antioxidant that also helps break down biofilms by reducing the formation of mucous-like layers that protect bacteria. Additionally, NAC supports overall detoxification processes in the body, which can further assist in clearing bacterial infections.
• Biocidin Liquid : A broad-spectrum herbal remedy, Biocidin contains a combination of botanicals designed to break down biofilms while also providing antimicrobial support. This product helps to dismantle the bacteria's protective layers – making them easier to target with antibiotics or other treatments.

Biofilm disruption is a crucial step in making treatments more effective and ensuring that the bacteria can’t continue to hide from the immune system.

Fibrin Nest Breakers:?

Bartonella can form fibrin nests, which are clusters of proteins that restrict blood flow, making it harder for antimicrobials to reach the bacteria. Incorporating enzymes like lumbrokinase, nattokinase, or serrapeptase into treatment can help break down these fibrin nests – improving the effectiveness of antimicrobial agents. Here are some effective products for fibrin nest breakdown:

• Nattokinase 100: This potent enzyme helps to break down fibrin, allowing for better circulation and increased access for antimicrobials to target Bartonella bacteria. It's often used in protocols aimed at improving blood flow and clearing these protective nests.
• LumbroPro and BloodFlowPro: These two products work synergistically to support fibrin breakdown and improve circulation. LumbroPro contains lumbrokinase, an enzyme derived from earthworms that is highly effective at breaking down fibrin deposits. BloodFlowPro enhances circulation, helping to restore blood flow to affected areas and further improving the delivery of antimicrobial agents.

Breaking down fibrin nests is an essential part of Bartonella treatment, as it helps antimicrobials penetrate deeper into infected tissues and makes it harder for the bacteria to hide.

Anti-Inflammatory Supplements:?

Managing inflammation is a key part of Bartonella treatment. Inflammation can exacerbate symptoms and hinder recovery, so supplements that help decrease inflammation and support a healthy balance of cytokines and other chemical messengers can play a significant role in modulating your immune response. Here are some effective anti-inflammatory supplement options:

• SuperTumeric : This powerful turmeric supplement provides curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce systemic inflammation and supports joint health.
• Omega Pro PRM : Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this supplement is formulated to help regulate inflammation and support overall immune function. Omega-3s are well-known for their ability to balance inflammatory responses.
• SPM Pro : Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators (SPMs) derived from omega-3 fatty acids aid in resolving inflammation and returning the body to a balanced, non-inflamed state. This product is particularly effective in supporting recovery from chronic infections.
• Omega Curcumin : A blend of omega-3s and curcumin, this supplement targets inflammation on multiple levels, promoting overall immune system health and reducing symptoms associated with Bartonella infections.
• ResverMax : Featuring resveratrol, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, ResverMax helps lower inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can be elevated in chronic infections.
• SynovEase : Formulated to ease joint and tissue inflammation, this supplement combines several anti-inflammatory agents to help manage pain and inflammation commonly associated with Bartonella.

Reducing inflammation with these supplements can greatly enhance recovery by alleviating symptoms and improving overall immune function, making it easier for the body to fight off the infection.

Immune System Support:?

Strengthening your immune system is crucial for effective Bartonella treatment. A strong immune system not only helps clear the infection but also plays a key role in preventing future occurrences. Immune support can come from maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and incorporating immune-boosting supplements. Here are some top supplement options to consider:

• Immune Boost Bundle : This bundle includes essential immune-supporting nutrients like zinc, a daily dose of vitamin D3, 500mg of NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine), and vitamin C balanced with specific minerals. These elements work together to enhance immune function and overall resilience.
• Immune Boost Bundle Advanced : Building on the standard Immune Boost Bundle, this advanced version adds glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, along with Virastat, a supplement designed to strengthen immune function and support normal inflammatory balance during immune challenges.
• Immune Booster : Each capsule in this formula contains naturally derived beta 1,3/1,6 glucan, standardized olive leaf extract, and vitamin C (ascorbic acid). These ingredients help to stimulate the body's natural immune mechanisms and are ideal for short-term use during periods of heightened immune challenges.
• Immune Essentials : This comprehensive supplement provides a blend of vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, NAC, and quercetin – all of which are key players in supporting immune health, reducing oxidative stress, and aiding in the body’s response to infection.

Incorporating these immune-boosting supplements into your daily routine can significantly enhance your body's ability to fight Bartonella and prevent future infections.

Addressing Co-Infections and Underlying Pathogens:?

Since Bartonella can complicate or coexist with other infections, it’s essential to address any co-infections or dormant pathogens. Treating these hidden infections, which may have been reactivated or exacerbated by Bartonella, can further support recovery and prevent relapse.

Tailored Treatment Protocol:?

Bartonella infections require a highly individualized approach. The right combination of antibiotics, biofilm disruptors, and fibrin nest breakers may vary depending on your unique presentation, co-infections, and response to treatment.

Eradicating Bartonella often requires a prolonged treatment regimen – typically lasting between 4 to 6 months. Because of the lengthy and complex nature of treatment, I cannot overemphasize the importance of working with a clinician who specializes in integrative and functional medicine.?

These practitioners focus on root-cause medicine, identifying and addressing the underlying sources of illness with a personalized approach to set you on the fastest and most effective path to healing. If you’re new to the functional medicine approach and aren’t sure how to choose the right practitioner, head over to my blog How to Choose a Good Integrative and Functional Medicine Doctor .

Bartonella Prevention: Protecting Yourself From Contracting Bartonella

Protecting yourself from Bartonella and other tick-borne diseases requires a proactive approach. By combining preventive measures with strategies to bolster your immune system, you can significantly reduce your risk. Here’s how to take charge of your health:

Tick Bite Prevention Protocol

If you've been exposed to ticks or are worried about the possibility of contracting Lyme disease or Bartonella, the Tick Bite Prevention Protocol offers a powerful first line of defense. This trio of herbal tinctures supports your body’s natural defenses against tick-borne illnesses by harnessing the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties of these potent herbs:

• Samento (Cat's Claw): Traditionally used in South American medicine, Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, especially against Lyme disease pathogens. It also plays a crucial role in supporting overall immune function.
• Houttuynia: A staple of traditional Chinese medicine, Houttuynia is known for its antimicrobial and immune-supporting benefits. This herb, in a bioavailable tincture form, is easy to incorporate into your daily routine and provides extra defense against harmful pathogens.
• Mora: This unique blend contains tinctures of Yarrow flowers, Capirona bark, and Blackberry leaves. These ingredients work together to promote a healthy inflammatory response while supporting immune defenses. Incorporating Mora into your routine can enhance your body’s ability to fend off infections after tick exposure.

Adding the Tick Bite Prevention Protocol to your wellness routine can serve as a proactive step in protecting yourself from tick-borne diseases, particularly after a known tick bite or exposure. Click here to learn more about this powerful protocol and order your own bundle today !

Protect Yourself From Tick and Insect Bites

Taking precautions to avoid tick and insect bites is key if you plan on spending any amount of time outdoors. Here are some effective strategies:

• Stay on Trails: When exploring outdoor areas, stick to well-defined trails and avoid walking through tall grass or wooded areas where ticks and insects are more prevalent.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for long pants, long sleeves, and closed shoes to minimize exposed skin. Light-colored clothing can also help you spot ticks more easily.
• Use Insect Repellent: Apply a reliable insect repellent to exposed skin and clothing. Look for products that are effective against ticks and other biting insects.
• Inspect Yourself Regularly: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check your clothes and hair for ticks or insects. Promptly remove any that you find.

While these steps are crucial, it’s important to recognize that complete avoidance of insect bites is challenging. That’s why I recommend complementing these precautions with strategies to enhance your immune system.

Give Your Immune System a Boost

A robust immune system is always your best defense against potential infections – including those from Bartonella. Here’s how to strengthen your immune defenses:

• Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Focus on foods that reduce inflammation and support immune function. Base your meals around whole, unprocessed foods and limit inflammatory processed foods. An anti-inflammatory diet helps your immune system efficiently target threats. If you need some help mixing it up in the kitchen, be sure to check out my recipe library .
• Take Immune-Boosting Supplements: Supplements can provide concentrated doses of nutrients that support your immune system. Consider supplements like Gut Immune and the supplements found in my Immune Boost Bundle . For more information on effective supplements, be sure to head over and read my article on the best immune-boosting supplements .
• Decrease Your Toxic Burden: Environmental toxins can overwhelm your body’s detoxification systems and impair immune function. To learn how to reduce your toxic load and support your immune health, check out my article on reducing your toxic burden .
• Show Your Gut Some Love: Your gut health is closely linked to your immune system. Maintaining a healthy gut is crucial for overall immune function. Incorporating Daily Probiotics to support your microbiome along with supplements like Gut Shield or Collagen Boost to fortify your gut lining can really help strengthen your defenses against pathogens like Bartonella. To dive deeper into how your gut can impact your immunity, head over and read my article How to Heal Your Gut for a Stronger Immune System .

Prioritizing these preventive measures and immune-boosting strategies will enhance your overall health and provide a strong defense against Bartonella and other harmful pathogens.

So, How Worried Should I Be About Bartonella?

The answer to this question is – it depends. If you’ve been experiencing unexplained symptoms – especially those that seem to align with either the recognizable or the more elusive conditions linked to Bartonella – it might be time to dig a little deeper into the root cause. And if you’ve had potential exposure to ticks, fleas, or other insect vectors and haven’t felt quite like yourself – or if you're dealing with symptoms that persist despite treatment – considering Bartonella as a possible culprit might be wise.

If you suspect you may be dealing with Bartonella, I cannot overemphasize the importance of finding a practitioner you trust who specializes in a Functional Medicine approach. Because when it comes to overcoming Bartonella or any other complex condition, you absolutely need someone who will help you take a big-picture, whole-life, holistic approach to healing.?

You deserve a doctor and a team who is going to help you heal the problem at the source (not just give you temporary band-aid solutions) and create vibrant well-being from the inside out. If you’re new to the Functional Medicine approach and are looking for some ways you can begin creating this foundation of vibrant health, I encourage you to download my Free Resource Roadmap .

Think of the Resource Roadmap like a mini-directory – it’s a comprehensive guide designed to help you empower you with the right products, resources, information, tools, and more to support your healing process and help you look, feel, and perform your very best. Click here to instantly access your Resource Roadmap !

Resources:

1. Bartonellosis – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment | NORD ( rarediseases.org )
2. Human Bartonellosis: An Underappreciated Public Health Problem? – PMC ( nih.gov )
3. Intruders below the Radar: Molecular Pathogenesis of Bartonella spp. – PMC ( nih.gov )
4. Kills Bartonella: A Brief Guide – Treat Lyme
5. Recommendations for Treatment of Human Infections Caused by Bartonella Species – PMC ( nih.gov )
6. Human Bartonellosis: An Underappreciated Public Health Problem? – PMC ( nih.gov )
7. Neurological presentations of Bartonella henselae infection – PubMed ( nih.gov )
8. Unmasking Bartonella henselae infection in the shadows of long COVID thanks to clinical metagenomics – PubMed ( nih.gov )
9. Kills Bartonella: A Brief Guide – Treat Lyme

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The product mentioned in this article are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. ? The information in this article is not intended to replace any recommendations or relationship with your physician. ?Please review references sited at end of article for scientific support of any claims made.