Is your child exhibiting abrupt behavior changes, like obsessive thoughts, tics, or showing anxiety? PANDAS may be the cause.
PANDAS, or “Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections”, is a complex childhood disorder characterized by the sudden onset of a range of neuropsychiatric symptoms that show up after a streptococcal infection, commonly called “Strep Throat”.
PANDAS is often misdiagnosed or overlooked, but with proper recognition and treatment, children can experience significant improvement. At Forum Health, we believe in addressing PANDAS from a comprehensive, functional medicine perspective. Rather than just managing symptoms, we aim to identify and address the root causes of the condition.
PANDAS Symptoms
Children diagnosed with PANDAS Syndrome typically encounter a variety of symptoms that manifest suddenly, often with considerable severity, affecting their daily functioning. Common symptoms can include:
Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
Tics
Anxiety attacks
Depression
Behavioral changes
Our Approach to Treating PANDAS
At Forum Health, we grasp the intricacies of PANDAS syndrome and the hurdles it presents for children and families. We advocate for an integrative strategy, blending conventional and complementary therapies, as the optimal means to handle PANDAS and support children in reaching their fullest potential. Our thorough PANDAS treatment plan aims to tackle the root immune dysregulation and effectively manage accompanying symptoms.
FAQ
PANDAS Syndrome is typically triggered by a streptococcal infection. The child's immune response to the infection mistakenly targets the brain, leading to the onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Diagnosis of PANDAS involves a careful review of medical history, symptoms, and often a test called a bacterial throat culture to confirm a recent strep infection. There are no definitive tests for PANDAS; it's largely based on clinical judgment.
Yes, symptoms can reappear, especially if the child has another strep infection. Long-term management often involves monitoring and preventive measures.
lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management combined with medical treatment can be beneficial in managing symptoms.