Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
When your child suddenly spirals—deep anxiety, rage, OCD rituals, tics, or school refusal—it can feel terrifying. You’re doing everything you can, yet nothing makes sense. You’re not alone. So many parents miss early signs of PANS/PANDAS because they look exactly like ADHD, anxiety, or sensory issues.
This episode breaks down what these conditions really look like, why they’re so often misdiagnosed, and how recognizing symptoms early can help you get your child the right support. You’ll learn the top 10 signs, why these behaviors appear overnight, and what to do next.
Why does my child seem to change overnight?
Sudden, dramatic behavioral shifts are one of the clearest signs of PANS/PANDAS. Kids who were functioning well can become almost unrecognizable in a single day.
This can look like:
- Explosive emotional outbursts
- New or intensified anxiety
- Obsessions or compulsions that appear out of nowhere
- Sudden fears or clinginess
Parent Story
A parent described their child as “fine on Friday, and a different kid by Monday”—panicked, tearful, unable to sleep. That kind of rapid shift is a hallmark of neuroinflammation.
Takeaway: Behavior is communication. When it changes this suddenly, the brain is under stress.
Is my child’s anxiety actually a sign of PANS/PANDAS?
Yes—anxiety and OCD are among the most commonly overlooked symptoms. They often appear before tics or physical symptoms.
Signs include:
- Persistent stomach aches
- New bedtime fears
- Worrying about illness or contamination
- Hand-wringing or subtle rituals
Why it matters:
Kids often can’t verbalize their distress, so anxiety becomes the first “clue” that inflammation is affecting the brain.
You don’t have to figure this out alone.
Become a Dysregulation Insider VIP and get your FREE Regulation Rescue Kit: How to Stay Calm When Your Child Pushes Your Buttons and Stop Oppositional Behaviors. Head to www.drroseann.com/newsletter and start your calm parenting journey today.
Why is my child so emotionally dysregulated all of a sudden?
Kids with PANS/PANDAS struggle to return to baseline. Their nervous system is stuck, even in safe situations.
Common signs:
- Rage episodes
- Crying that lasts longer than usual
- Overreacting to small frustrations
- Trouble recovering after meltdowns
Real-Life Example
A child who was usually easygoing suddenly can’t handle transitions, like stopping a game or getting dressed. Parents often assume it’s “behavioral,” but it’s really a dysregulated brain calling for help.
Tip: Calm the brain first using co-regulation, deep pressure, or rhythmic movement.
Could new tics, sensory issues, or regressions mean something deeper?
Absolutely. Neurological and developmental changes are red flags.
Look for:
- New tics (eye blinking, throat clearing)
- Regression in math, reading, or handwriting
- Motor skill setbacks
- Sensory overload that wasn’t there before
These aren’t “quirky phases”—they’re neurological symptoms of inflammation.
Takeaway: Sudden regression is never typical.
Why does my child flare during illness—or suddenly improve after antibiotics?
This is one of the strongest indicators of PANS/PANDAS.
Patterns parents notice:
- Symptoms spike with strep, viruses, mold exposure, or allergies
- Kids worsen during fever
- Behaviors improve after antimicrobial treatment
- Flares during growth spurts or high stress
Real-Life Example
A teen shared that every cold sent her spiraling into panic and OCD, but she’d stabilize once the infection cleared.
🗣️ “Behavior is communication. When symptoms appear suddenly or intensify overnight, we must look at what’s inflaming the brain—not blame the child or the parenting.” — Dr. Roseann
Takeaway & What’s Next
If your child’s behavior, mood, or learning has suddenly shifted, it isn’t your fault—and your child isn’t “broken.” These may be signs of PANS/PANDAS, and with the right help, it’s gonna be OK.
Early intervention calms the brain, stops the cycle, and gets kids back to themselves.
➡️ Give your child the right support with our Natural PANS/PANDAS Kit—crafted to calm the brain and jump-start healing without medication.
FAQs
What is the difference between PANS and PANDAS?
PANS can be triggered by any infection or toxin; PANDAS is specifically tied to strep. Both cause sudden neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Can PANS/PANDAS look like ADHD?
Yes—dysregulation, impulsivity, and inattention often mimic ADHD, leading to misdiagnosis.
What triggers PANS/PANDAS flares?
Illness, stress, allergies, mold exposure, or toxins can all spark worsening symptoms.
How fast do symptoms appear?
Often overnight. Dramatic, sudden onset is a hallmark of these conditions.
Can kids recover from PANS/PANDAS?
Yes. With early, targeted treatment, kids can fully heal and regain emotional and cognitive stability.
Every child’s journey is different. That’s why cookie-cutter solutions don’t work.
Take the free Solution Matcher Quiz and get a customized path to support your child’s emotional and behavioral needs—no guessing, no fluff.
Start today at www.drroseann.com/help
