Functional Care for PANS and PANDAS in Peachtree Corners
PANS and PANDAS are immune-related conditions that can cause a sudden onset of symptoms in children. At Elite Personalized Medicine, we provide pediatric functional medicine to treat the underlying causes of inflammation, infections and other factors. Using a holistic approach, we develop personalized strategies to manage the complex interconnected nature of infections, immune dysfunction and inflammation. Visit us in Peachtree Corners or Dacula for expert PANS and PANDAS care.
Symptoms of PANS and PANDAS in Children
The practitioners at Elite Personalized Medicine specialize in treating PANS (pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome) and PANDAS (pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections) using a functional medicine approach. These conditions often follow an illness or immune system response, causing symptoms that appear suddenly. Parents should be aware of the following signs.
- Sudden OCD behaviors or severe separation anxiety.
- New or worsening tics or repetitive movements.
- Extreme mood swings, irritability or rage episodes.
- Dramatic decline in school performance or handwriting.
- Sleep disturbances and daytime fatigue.
- Urinary frequency or new bedwetting.
Functional Pediatric Approach to PANDAS
PANDAS occurs when a streptococcal infection triggers an autoimmune response. If your child experiences an acute onset of symptoms shortly after a strep infection, such as strep throat, a strep skin infection or scarlet fever, this is a likely sign of the condition. In PANDAS, antibodies created to fight the strep infection mistakenly attack brain tissue, specifically the basal ganglia, which controls movement and behavior. A functional medicine approach to PANDAS involves treating the strep infection, regulating the immune response, and addressing underlying factors to prevent or minimize future flares.
What Parents Should Know About PANS
While PANS shares similarities with PANDAS, it has a broader range of potential triggers. Viral, bacterial and fungal infections can trigger the condition, with common examples including influenza, mycoplasma, Lyme disease, mononucleosis and sinus infections. PANS can also be triggered by environmental factors, metabolic issues or immune dysfunction, making it more challenging to identify the underlying cause. As with PANDAS, inflammation in the brain causes neuropsychiatric symptoms that result in similar behavioral and cognitive issues for children.
Pediatric PANS and PANDAS Evaluation and Testing
At Elite Personalized Medicine, we offer comprehensive assessments to diagnose PANS/PANDAS in children. We first evaluate your child’s health history, symptoms, family health history, diet and other factors. With this information, our practitioners can identify the appropriate testing approach and panels that may include the following.
- Strep assessment when PANDAS is suspected.
- Infection screens based on history.
- Inflammation and immune markers.
- Baseline health labs and key nutrients.
- Gut health review when GI issues are present.
- Environmental exposure review if necessary.
- Symptom tracking tools for OCD, tics, mood and sleep.
Testing is thorough, yet paced for your child’s comfort and well-being. As with our pediatric autism care and other treatments, as we work to get the answers we need, we avoid overwhelming your child with unnecessary procedures.
Functional Treatment Plan for PANS and PANDAS in Children
Functional medicine and integrative treatments are key to our PANS and PANDAS therapies. Rather than focusing on treating the symptoms of the conditions, we take a whole-body health approach that treats root causes such as infections, immune dysfunction and inflammation.
A personalized treatment plan often combines conventional medicine with a range of evidence-based interventions, including nutrition, supplementation, gut healing and environmental modifications. From anti-inflammatory nutrition and age-appropriate supplements to stress reduction techniques and microbiome balance, these changes can prevent flares and support your child’s recovery.
Common Questions About PANS and PANDAS Treatment
Is functional medicine safe for PANS and PANDAS?
Functional medicine approaches for PANS and PANDAS are safe and focus on treating the underlying triggers of the conditions. Children are monitored during treatment, and adjustments can be made to provide the most effective outcomes.
Can allergies make PANS or PANDAS worse?
Allergies can make PANS or PANDAS worse by triggering immune system reactions that contribute to symptoms or flares. A pediatric allergy treatment can support a comprehensive approach that prevents symptom exacerbation.
How quickly can PANS symptoms appear, and how long do they last?
PANS symptoms can appear suddenly, sometimes within 24 to 48 hours of an illness or trigger, and may reach full intensity within days before following a relapsing and remitting pattern. Early treatment can shorten the duration and intensity of flares for a faster recovery.
Contact Us for Functional PANS and PANDAS Treatment
Elite Personalized Medicine provides functional care for pediatric PANS and PANDAS at our locations in Peachtree Corners and Dacula. Receive expert testing and treatment to address the root causes of the conditions. Call (770) 416-1070 or request an appointment today.
