Decoding PANDAS and PANS: A Functional Medicine Deep Dive 🧠💫

Understanding PANS and PANDAS: A Functional Medicine Approach

Welcome, Well-Rooted readers! Today, we want to dive into the complex yet often misunderstood world of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). Strap in for an enlightening journey through the variations of these conditions and discover how functional medicine offers a unique approach to diagnosis and treatment.

What are PANDAS and PANS?

Let’s start with the basics. PANDAS, or Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections, occurs when a strep infection triggers an autoimmune response that results in inflammation in the basal ganglia of the brain. On the other hand, PANS, or Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, can be caused by various factors such as viruses, bacteria, mold, Lyme disease, and more, leading to similar neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Symptoms to Watch Out For:

Recognizing PANDAS and PANS can be challenging, especially since the symptoms often overlap with other conditions. However, some key indicators include abrupt onset of OCD-like behaviors, restrictive eating patterns, anxiety, depression, irritability, behavioral regressions, sleep disturbances, and urinary issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Diagnosing PANDAS and PANS is primarily clinical, relying on a thorough assessment of symptoms and history. While lab tests can be beneficial for confirming infections and ruling out other conditions, the focus remains on understanding the patient’s journey and identifying potential triggers. Functional medicine takes a holistic approach, addressing three key aspects:

1. Treating the underlying cause (kill the bug)

2. Reducing inflammation (put out the fire)

3.  Modulating the body’s response to inflammation (teach the body to deal with inflammation appropriately).

Differences in Treatment Approaches:

Conventional medicine often relies on antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and, in severe cases, IVIG infusions. However, functional medicine offers a more comprehensive strategy that includes herbal supplements, dietary modifications, and lifestyle interventions to support overall health and well-being. By targeting all three prongs of treatment simultaneously, functional medicine aims to address the root cause and prevent future flare-ups.

A Success Story:

One poignant example that stands out to us illustrates the transformative power of functional medicine in treating PANDAS/PANS. A teenage patient of ours struggled with debilitating neuropsychiatric symptoms for over a decade, receiving multiple diagnoses and psychiatric medications. Upon consulting with a us, comprehensive testing revealed elevated strep markers, leading to a tailored treatment plan. Within six months, the patient was off all psychiatric medications and experiencing significant improvements in behavior and mood, offering hope and encouragement to others facing similar challenges! After a decade of getting the run around with no real answers!

Closing Thoughts:

The reality is that PANDAS and PANS are complex conditions that require a nuanced approach to diagnosis and treatment. Functional medicine offers a ray of hope for patients and families by addressing underlying imbalances and promoting holistic healing. By raising awareness and understanding, we can empower individuals to seek the support and care they deserve on their journey to optimal health and wellness.

If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences, please give us a call or shoot us an email ([email protected]).

Together, we can continue to shine a light on these important issues and foster a community of support and healing. Until next time, stay informed, stay empowered, and stay well! 🌟🧠 

In case you missed our LIVE Facebook broadcast about PANDAS/PANS with our Nurse Practitioner, Jacki Liggett, check it out below!