Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS), characterized by sudden-onset neuropsychiatric symptoms, often present significant challenges for both patients and their families. From navigating diagnostic uncertainties to accessing appropriate treatment modalities, the road to recovery can indeed be challenging.
However, we shouldn’t be discouraged despite how daunting finding treatment for PANS and PANDAS is. Keep in mind that proper guidance and early intervention are crucial to ensure the best care for our children. That’s why in this episode, we discuss more about recovering from PANS and PANDAS.
Barriers to healing in PANS and PANDAS, including nervous system activation and improper detoxification.
As I have observed, the common barriers frequently encountered in treating PANS and PANDAS are overactivation of the nervous system and inadequate detoxification support. In fact, when patients come to me for guidance, even after receiving what they deem as adequate care, these issues often persist.
I want to emphasize that the nervous system plays a significant role in recovery. When it becomes stressed and shifts from a relaxed parasympathetic state to a dominant sympathetic mode, the body's resources become consumed with searching for the perceived stressor. This constant activation of fight-flight-freeze responses can make rational functioning difficult, hindering the body's ability to heal itself.
Additionally, many individuals with PANS and PANDAS do not receive appropriate detoxification support. While there are now more providers specializing in these conditions, the focus tends to be more traditional or on herbal remedies. However, detoxification is a complex process that requires careful consideration of genetic factors such as MTHFR mutations. Without addressing these underlying issues, individuals may struggle to eliminate toxins effectively, exacerbating inflammation and impeding progress.
Nowadays, toxins have become prevalent in our environment. They can be present even in everyday things like carpets and plastics. These toxins, along with existing inflammation, mess up the bodies of individuals with PANS and PANDAS, so it's crucial to work on reducing inflammation to help them heal.
Healing a dysregulated nervous system through various techniques.
As mentioned, the nervous system plays a vital role in treating PANS and PANDAS. And so, it’s important to calm it down and regulate it. Many find relief through techniques like PEMF therapy, which I've seen work wonders, especially for sudden-onset cases like tick-borne illnesses. Other brain-based tools such as neurofeedback, biofeedback, and meditation, along with consistent breathwork, can also help regulate a dysregulated nervous system.
Prioritizing self-care is key to significantly improving both your well-being and the effectiveness of your efforts to support your child. When you're constantly in a state of caregiving, it's easy to overlook your own needs, but neglecting self-care can eventually lead to burnout and diminish your ability to provide the necessary support.
Finding a provider who aligns with your goals and can help map out a strategic treatment plan is crucial. From my experience, successful cases often share similar qualities: they come in with nervousness and fear, but also with hope, belief in their child's potential, and a sense of faith. These qualities, combined with consistent effort and addressing even the smallest behaviors, are vital. It's not easy, especially considering the collateral damage and trauma that often accompany these conditions. But embracing lifestyle changes and having patience can lead to significant progress.
To learn more about PANS and PANDAS, you may check out the following posts:
● 5 Surprising Ways Magnesium Helps ADHD Anxiety OCD and Depression
● The Best Diet for Children with Pans and Pandas
● Clinical Guide Pans and Pandas
● Healing Pans Pandas and Ae with Lauren Lee Stone
To learn more about Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge and science-backed mental health solutions, please visit www.drroseann.com.
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