PANDAS are not just cute furry animals...a brief explanation of this Pediatric issue
Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) are conditions that can cause sudden behavioral disturbances in children. PANDAS is specifically linked to streptococcal (“strep”) infection while PANS can result from a broad number of potential triggers, such as other viruses, bacteria, fungi, mold, and even allergic reactions. Experts believe these conditions to be linked to inflammation in certain parts of the brain, particularly in the area that controls movement, decision-making, and emotion [1,2]. If infection leads to an abnormal immune response — where the immune system mistakenly attacks neural cells — it can result in causing a significant change in the child’s behavior that is known as PANDAS or PANS.
Children’s symptoms manifest seemingly overnight, and an episode causes personality or behavioral changes. These may show up in the form of obsessive-compulsive behaviors, motor or verbal tics, nervousness, separation anxiety, motor or sensory abnormalities, irritability, difficulty focusing, and appetite changes. These symptoms can be severe, affecting performance in school and dynamics at home [1,2].
Awareness of these conditions and their triggers is important for parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers to prepare for and manage symptoms in the best way possible. So many families are affected by this sudden change in behavior and have no idea what is going on with their child. PANDAS or PANS might be the explanation, and pediatric chiropractic care combined with improved diet and neurological exercises can be the difference maker in these kids. We have taken care of many children with PANDAS and PANS and have watched their little brains and nerve systems calm down and they become themselves again.
