PANS and PANDAS are autoimmune conditions in which infections (like strep throat or even viruses) trigger a misdirected immune response. This immune reaction causes inflammation in key areas of a child’s brain, leading to abrupt changes in behavior, mood, and motor function.
Key Symptoms May Include:
- Sudden onset of OCD or eating restrictions
- Severe separation anxiety
- Mood swings, rage, or depression
- Tics or choreiform movements
- Motor or sensory abnormalities
- Sleep disturbances and enuresis (bed-wetting)
- Decline in academic ability or school performance
Because the onset is often sudden, many parents describe it as “having a different child overnight.”
Diagnosis Is Often a Journey
One of the most difficult aspects of PANS and PANDAS is getting a clear diagnosis. Symptoms can mimic those of other neuropsychiatric conditions, such as Tourette syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, or generalized anxiety. Without appropriate testing and a multidisciplinary approach, children may be misdiagnosed or left untreated.
Fortunately, wellness centers and clinics across North America are beginning to take a more holistic, multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating these complex conditions.
A Canadian Resource: Level Up Wellness Group
For Canadian parents seeking answers, Level Up Wellness Group (luwg.ca) offers an invaluable resource. Specializing in integrative and evidence-based wellness care, their health professionals take a collaborative approach to treating PANS and PANDAS — addressing not just the symptoms, but the root causes.
Their team includes naturopaths, psychotherapists, nutritionists, and functional medicine practitioners who work together to create comprehensive treatment plans for children. These often include dietary changes, immune support, detox protocols, and neurological rehabilitation.
If you’re navigating the maze of PANS/PANDAS with your child, the Level Up Wellness Group team may be a vital partner on your journey to healing.
Hope Through Awareness and Holistic Care
While PANS and PANDAS can feel overwhelming, awareness is growing – and with that, so are the options for effective treatment. Early diagnosis and a comprehensive, nuanced care plan can make a world of difference.
If your child is displaying signs of sudden and severe neuropsychiatric symptoms, don’t wait. Trust your instincts, seek out professionals who listen, and consider whole-person wellness alternatives that go beyond symptom management.
Final Thoughts
PANS and PANDAS are complex, but with the right resources and a dedicated care team, children can recover and thrive. If you’re based in Canada and looking for support, don’t hesitate to reach out to Level Up Wellness Group at luwg.ca.
