Pans and Pandas
PANS and PANDAS are infection-induced autoimmune conditions that occur when our immune system mistakenly attacks normal body tissues because of the structural similarities between a particular molecule on an infectious agent and the molecules in our own body tissues.
PANS and PANDAS can cause an onset of psychiatric/neurological symptoms including obsessive compulsive disorder, motor tics, anxiety, sleep disturbances, mood swings, irritability, anorexia, hyperactivity and urinary problems. PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) is associated with a variety of different infections whereas PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcus) is specifically associated with streptococcal infection.
The Stram Center has long recognized pediatric psychiatric presentations as having the potential for an infectious/autoimmune etiology. Unfortunately, some pediatricians do not understand that the root cause of their patient’s onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms can be the result of an immune reaction to a persistent, untreated chronic infection, will misdiagnose and prescribe psychotropic medications to manage symptoms but this does nothing to treat the problem. PANS and PANDAS are clinical diagnoses therefore it is paramount that the doctor understands the etiology of these conditions. Assessing for the presence of a chronic infection is extremely important as well as testing for autoimmune titers which can provide information helpful in the clinical diagnosis. We have found in our own clinical experience, that in many cases, when given an appropriate antibiotic, patients presenting with PANS and PANDAS experience symptom resolution.
Integrative Treatment Options
Chronic Illness
Nowhere is the need for an integrative approach more apparent than in the management of chronic illness. We are a synthesis of many systems all working together, and when one or more systems become diseased, all of the others will be stressed as well. From physical challenges, to the challenges of everyday living, to a satisfying quality of life, we have to go past seeing that illness in…Chronic Illness
Lyme Disease
Lyme Disease Diagnosis and Treatment in Delmar NY and Burlington VT offices At the Stram Center we vow to continue our education on Lyme Disease research, stay up to date on the most effective testing and all the safe available therapies. Moreover, our years of experience in treating patients according to the whole person-integrative medicine approach allows us the most effective way to care…Lyme Disease
Mental Health Counseling
At the Stram Center, we recognize that mental health is often the basis of your potential to navigate life’s challenges as well as to heal from physical illness. Understanding your full self, including traumas and difficulties you may have experienced, is often the first step to learn what your unique strategies are in the face of life’s difficulties. Quality healthcare should include support…Mental Health Counseling
IV Therapy for Chronic Illness
Chronic illnesses are on the rise in the US. From chronic Lyme disease, cancers, chronic fatigue, pain and more – patients are attempting to live their best lives while fighting a battle within. A patient’s response to chronic illness is unique – based upon many factors ranging from emotional response to the disease, individual physical symptoms, immune response and the duration of the…IV Therapy for Chronic Illness
