Your immune system is responsible for keeping you healthy and fighting off risks of illness or infection. When your child has a disorder known at Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal infection, also known as PANDAS, your child’s immune system isn’t just fighting off infection and illness, but their immune system is also destroying healthy parts of their body. Dr. Melissa Singer and Dr. Lisa Rankin at Coastal Integrated Medicine in Stuart, FL, can explain what PANDAS syndrome is and how you can help your child manage this syndrome and live a healthy life.
What is PANDAS Syndrome?
PANDAS syndrome is an autoimmune condition that is caused by a strep infection. You may notice overnight that your child is suddenly showing intense and severe signs of anxiety, compulsions, and certain fear obsessions. They may also be sensitive to light and sound and develop tics, aggression, and jerky movements.
When you start noticing that your child is showing these signs of PANDAS syndrome, it’s important to take them to their doctor in Stuart, FL, as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Often, this autoimmune disorder can be misdiagnosed with a psychiatric disorder and the underlying autoimmune response is not treated. Your doctors are able to see the signs of PANDAS and it’s important to convey your child’s medical history, especially if they’ve had a strep infection.
Once your child is officially diagnosed, a treatment plan can be developed. This could be supplements and medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, a specific diet, and breathing techniques. It’s important to talk to your child’s doctor about their lifestyle and find ways to make changes that could benefit your child in the long run.
Contact Your Doctor Today
Autoimmune disorders can be scary to deal with, especially when you don’t always have an immediate answer. Contact Dr. Melissa Singer and Dr. Lisa Rankin at Coastal Integrated Medicine in Stuart, FL, to learn about PANDAS syndrome and how you can get your child the care that they need. Call for more information and to schedule an appointment at (772) 344-1409.