PANS/PANDAS Treatment

PANS/PANDAS Condition

PANS/PANDAS Treatment at Illuminate Functional and Lifestyle Medicine

At Illuminate Functional and Lifestyle Medicine, we specialize in treating complex conditions like PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) and PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections). These disorders can have a profound impact on children and their families, but with our integrative, root-cause-focused approach, we strive to offer hope and healing through individualized care that addresses the unique needs of each patient.

What are PANS and PANDAS?

PANS and PANDAS are autoimmune conditions that result in sudden, severe changes in a child’s behavior, emotions, and motor control. These disorders are triggered by infections or environmental factors, leading to inflammation in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for movement, behavior, and emotional regulation.

  • PANDAS is a specific subset of PANS caused by a streptococcal infection (such as strep throat). The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy brain tissue, leading to neuropsychiatric symptoms.
  • PANS refers to a broader condition that can be triggered by a variety of infections (viral, bacterial, or fungal) or even environmental factors like mold exposure or other toxins.


The hallmark of both conditions is the
sudden onset of severe symptoms, often occurring seemingly overnight.

Common Symptoms of PANS/PANDAS

Children with PANS/PANDAS experience a range of neuropsychiatric symptoms that come on abruptly, often after an infection. These symptoms may include:

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors (OCD): Compulsive thoughts or rituals that the child feels unable to control.
  • Severe Anxiety: Intense fears or irrational worries, often associated with separation from parents or loved ones.
  • Tics or Involuntary Movements: Sudden, repetitive movements or vocalizations.
  • Emotional and Behavioral Changes: Sudden mood swings, irritability, aggression, or defiance.
  • Regression in Motor Skills: Difficulty with handwriting, fine motor coordination, or clumsiness.
  • Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, night terrors, or excessive fatigue.
  • Urinary Issues: Frequent urination, bed-wetting, or urgency.
  • Cognitive Decline: Problems with memory, attention, or concentration, resembling ADHD-like symptoms.


These symptoms can be overwhelming and may interfere with daily functioning, school performance, and family life. The rapid onset and fluctuating nature of symptoms often make PANS/PANDAS challenging to diagnose and treat.

Common Causes and Triggers

PANS and PANDAS occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection or environmental trigger, causing inflammation in the brain. Common causes and triggers include:

  • Streptococcal Infections: The primary trigger for PANDAS, strep infections can cause the immune system to mistakenly target the brain.
  • Other Infections: Viral infections (such as influenza or Epstein-Barr), bacterial infections (like Lyme disease or mycoplasma pneumonia), and even fungal infections can trigger PANS.
  • Immune System Dysfunction: A malfunctioning immune system, which may be influenced by genetics, can lead to chronic inflammation and autoimmune reactions.
  • Toxin Exposure: Environmental toxins, including mold or heavy metals, can disrupt the immune system and contribute to neuroinflammation.
  • Chronic Inflammation: Ongoing inflammation in the body—whether from gut health issues, allergies, or other sources—can increase the risk of developing PANS or PANDAS.

Our Holistic Approach to Treating PANS/PANDAS

At Illuminate Functional and Lifestyle Medicine, we take a comprehensive, personalized approach to treating PANS and PANDAS. Our goal is to identify and address the root causes of the condition while supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation. We work closely with families to develop individualized treatment plans that focus on long-term healing and symptom relief.

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Comprehensive Functional Medicine Evaluation

We begin by conducting a thorough assessment of your child’s medical history, symptoms, and potential triggers. This may include:

  • Infection Testing: We test for recent or past infections, which may include strep, viruses, Lyme disease, mycoplasma and others to identify any underlying infections that may be driving symptoms.
  • Immune System Assessment: Evaluating immune system function to determine if autoimmune responses or chronic inflammation are contributing to the condition.
  • Environmental Exposure Testing: Testing for mold, heavy metals, or other environmental toxins that could be affecting your child’s health.
  • Nutritional and Gut Health Analysis: Assessing the gut microbiome and identifying any food sensitivities, nutritional deficiencies, or digestive issues that may be contributing to inflammation or immune dysfunction.

Targeted Immune Support and Infection Treatment

Once we identify the underlying infections or immune system imbalances, we develop a targeted treatment plan to support the body’s natural healing processes. This may include:

  • Antibiotics or Antimicrobials: In cases of active infection, we may recommend antibiotics (for strep or bacterial infections) or other antimicrobials to eliminate harmful pathogens.
  • Immune-Modulating Therapies: We may use supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, or probiotics, to help regulate immune function and reduce inflammation.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Supplements: Natural anti-inflammatories like curcumin, quercetin, or resveratrol may be recommended to help reduce brain inflammation and support healing.

Gut Health Optimization

The gut plays a critical role in immune function, and many children with PANS/PANDAS have underlying gut imbalances that exacerbate their symptoms. Our gut health approach includes:

  • Probiotics and Prebiotics: Supporting a healthy gut microbiome to improve immune function and reduce systemic inflammation.
  • Digestive Enzymes: Helping with nutrient absorption and gut healing, especially if there are food sensitivities or digestive issues.
  • Dietary Adjustments: We may recommend an anti-inflammatory diet, such as the elimination of gluten, dairy, or processed foods, to support gut healing and reduce inflammatory triggers.

Neuroinflammation and Brain Health Support

Neuroinflammation (inflammation in the brain) is a key factor in PANS/PANDAS. We focus on therapies that reduce this inflammation and support brain function, including:

  • Neuroprotective Nutrients: Supplements like magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can help protect the brain and reduce inflammation.
  • Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies: In collaboration with mental health professionals, we may recommend therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to help manage obsessive-compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and other symptoms.
  • Mind-Body Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness, relaxation exercises, or biofeedback to help manage stress, anxiety, and emotional symptoms.

Detoxification and Environmental Modifications

If environmental toxins are contributing to your child’s symptoms, we provide guidance on reducing exposure and supporting detoxification:

  • Detoxification Support: Using natural supplements like glutathione or milk thistle to support the body’s ability to eliminate toxins.
  • Environmental Modifications: Offering recommendations to reduce mold exposure, improve air quality, and minimize other environmental triggers in the home.

Patient Considerations

When considering treatment for PANS or PANDAS at Illuminate Functional and Lifestyle Medicine, keep the following in mind:
Every child with PANS/PANDAS presents with unique symptoms and triggers. Our treatment plans are customized to address your child’s specific needs and underlying causes.
Our goal is to identify and treat the root causes of your child’s condition, rather than simply managing symptoms. This requires a comprehensive approach that includes infection control, immune support, and lifestyle modifications.
PANS/PANDAS can be overwhelming for families. We work closely with parents to provide education, guidance, and ongoing support throughout the treatment process.
Recovery from PANS/PANDAS often requires patience and persistence. While some symptoms may improve quickly, full healing may take time as we address the underlying immune dysfunction and inflammation.

Patient Considerations

When considering acne treatment at Illuminate, we prioritize long-term skin health over quick fixes. Our patients should understand that:

  • Healing Takes Time: Since acne can have deep-rooted causes, expect that treatment may take several weeks to months to see significant improvements.
  • Personalized Care: Every patient’s skin is unique, and our approach is highly individualized. Treatments that work for one person may not work for another, so consistent communication with your provider is essential.
  • Holistic Lifestyle: Achieving clear skin is part of a broader commitment to holistic health, which includes proper nutrition, stress management, and overall wellness.

Why Choose Illuminate Functional and Lifestyle Medicine for PANS/PANDAS Treatment?

At Illuminate, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our functional medicine approach to PANS and PANDAS focuses on uncovering the root causes of the condition and creating a personalized treatment plan to promote long-term healing. We are dedicated to providing compassionate care, guiding you through every step of your child’s healing journey.

If your child is suffering from PANS or PANDAS, contact Illuminate Functional and Lifestyle Medicine today to schedule a consultation and begin the path to recovery.

Illuminate your child’s path to better health with our holistic approach to PANS and PANDAS. We’re here to support your family every step of the way!

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