PANS and PANDAS are devastating immune-mediated conditions that are characterised by hallmark symptoms, including extreme anxiety, OCD, rage, and sensory processing difficulties.
Even among the medical community, awareness and understanding of PANS and PANDAS remain low. Conventional medicine offers limited treatment options even if a child is successfully diagnosed. It is sadly not uncommon for people suffering with PANS and PANDAS to remain undiagnosed for many years.
OCD is a key feature
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterised by repetitive thoughts and behaviours, impulses, obsessions or compulsions, with the tendency to perform acts in a habitual or stereotyped manner.
OCD and autism
Many children with autism don’t get a separate diagnosis of OCD as the compulsions are viewed as “part of autism”. With children who don’t have an autism diagnosis, a sudden personality change can be much easier to identify. But there are common patterns in the underlying biochemistry and medical histories of both groups, including:
Dysregulated immune systems and signs of underlying infections.
Compromised immune function and exaggerated inflammatory response.
Low serum immunoglobulin A. IgA antibodies are the first line of defence against harmful microbes and good levels are crucial for maintaining immune tolerance.
Birth via C-section and antibiotics in the first year of life.
The development of OCD may be sudden - overnight in some cases, or it can build over several months. The more common triggers tend to be illnesses like Scarlet Fever or Chickenpox, as well as other viral pathogens. Exposure to mould, food poisoning, an intense course of antibiotics, or emotional trauma can also act as catalysts.
How to help your child with debilitating OCD
Rule out psychological causes by working with an appropriate specialist like a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Address underlying infections.
Balance the immune system by supporting the gut.
Use natural anti-inflammatories.
Check levels of iron and vitamin D.
Read more in my full blog post, or book a free Discovery Call with one of our practitioners today to find out how we can help you or your child manage debilitating OCD.
Please note that we do not diagnose or treat illnesses at Brainstorm Health, but we can help you advocate for the right medical diagnosis from qualified doctors if necessary.
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