Unveiling the Mysteries of PANS/PANDAS

Have you ever come across the terms PANS/PANDAS before? PANS/PANDAS stands for Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections, respectively. It is an immune disorder but instead of showing classic symptoms of an infection such as a fever, headache and vomiting, the affected person suddenly undergoes behavior changes.

Some of the common symptoms of PANS/PANDAS include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors that weren't present before, becoming an extremely picky eater, or even regressing and wetting the bed again. These are just a few examples of the myriad of changes that can occur with PANS/PANDAS.

Interestingly, experts have observed a potential link between PANS/PANDAS and autism. It turns out that autistic individuals might be more susceptible to immune challenges, including PANS/PANDAS. This connection adds another layer of complexity to the diagnosis and management of these conditions.

Unraveling the presence of PANS/PANDAS in autistic children can be difficult. The overlapping symptoms and traits shared by both conditions can often mask the signs of PANS/PANDAS, making it harder to detect and treat.

Luckily, there are many experts on PANS/PANDAS that have dedicated their careers to helping children on the road to managing and understanding PANS/PANDAS. One of these experts is Dr. Emily Gutierrez. Dr. Gutierrez wrote an article for Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine, exploring the various symptoms associated with PANS/PANDAS, explaining the relationship between autism and PANS/PANDAS, and even explaining how to get tested for this disorder. Her article also provides valuable insights into the treatments available to manage PANS/PANDAS.

Whether you're a parent, a caregiver, or just someone with a curious mind, understanding PANS/PANDAS can shed light on the challenges faced by individuals dealing with this immune disorder. So don't miss out on the chance to broaden your knowledge and empower yourself with the latest insights in pediatric medicine.

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