>   
>> The metrnidazol killed the
>> remaining giardia and her immune system, robbed of its enemy and with
>> its systems running on full blast,  went on a rampage and attacked ALL
>> her major muscles.
>>
>>     
> I admit my knowledge of the biology is limited.  I have heard similar
> notions mentioned before, including the idea that an antibiotic
> *kills* the immune system.  I must confess that I have never
> understood how this is supposed to work.  While the analogy on the
> surface seems sensible, what little I've read on the subject would
> seem to indicate that it doesn't bear scrutiny.  I would very much
> appreciate comment from anyone on the list who has more insight.
>
>
>
>   

I think you missed a comma here.
The antibotic killed the bug and then without that bug her immune system
went on to attack the body.
The antibiotic did *not* "kill" the immune system.


@Russell, Hope your wife feels better soon. If she is having problems
with the painkillers (or doesn't like using them long term on principle)
think about hypnosis. My "Better half" got RSI in her right arm and it
flares up from time to time. Once the pain has started and she realises
"oh hey this actually hurts i should probably stop doing it" We use
hypnosis to remove the sensation of pain. Taking care that they know its
damaged and if she does anything else to injure it then that will still
hurt. We find her recovery to be much quicker without the pain. I think
its because when a muscle hurts the body tries to protect it by tensing
it up, limiting blood flow and the like (doesn't help when you cant
sleep either).
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