What is PANDAS/PANS?
More of our children are presenting with symptoms such as OCD, anxiety, tics, personality changes etc. It is thought that as many as 1 in 200 children will be diagnosed with PANDAS or PANS. So what is it?
PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) occurs when streptococcal infections trigger a misdirected immune response. This results in inflammation on a child’s brain. The child then may develop life changing symptoms. These can range from OCD, anxiety, tics, personality changes, decline in their school work, sensory sensitivities, restrictive eating, etc.
When an infection occurs, antibiotics are usually prescribed. These only seem to offer temporary relief and regular use of antibiotics can create further problems such as stomach upsets and further disruption to the immune system.
In the US, the PANDAS network recently carried out a study of 700 families and rather interestingly the highest percentage of onset of symptoms was from the ages of 4 to 9 years at a staggering 69%.
The full findings can be found here. http://www.pandasnetwork.org/understanding-pandaspans/statistics/
If you suspect your child is showing signs of the above and you would like to talk to me to see how I am able to help using homeopathy please book your free 20 minute consultation.
**Since writing this blog I have seen an increase in more children presenting with this condition and I have an updated blog which can be read here.