PANS & PANDAS
At NeuroThrive Paediatric Health, we provide compassionate, evidence-based naturopathic care to support children experiencing PANS/PANDAS symptoms, working alongside medical professionals to ensure a comprehensive, integrative treatment plan.
Understanding the Connection Between Autoimmune Response & Behavioural Changes
Has your child suddenly developed tics, obsessive-compulsive behaviours, anxiety, or mood swings without an obvious cause? These could be signs of Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) or Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS)—conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain, leading to neurological and behavioural symptoms.
What Are PANS & PANDAS?
PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections)
PANDAS occurs when a streptococcal (strep) infection triggers an autoimmune response, causing the immune system to mistakenly attack brain tissue. This often results in sudden-onset OCD, tics, anxiety, and mood changes.
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PANS (Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome)
PANS is a broader condition where similar neurological and psychiatric symptoms arise, but without a confirmed strep infection. Instead, viral, bacterial, fungal infections, environmental toxins, or even stress may trigger an autoimmune reaction affecting brain function.
Both conditions can lead to dramatic behavioural shifts, cognitive struggles, and emotional instability, making early recognition and intervention essential.
Key Differences Between PANS & PANDAS
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PANDAS is specifically triggered by a strep infection.
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PANS has a wider range of triggers, including other infections, inflammation, and environmental factors.
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Both conditions result in sudden and severe behavioural and neurological symptoms.
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While there is no quick fix, many children recover or significantly improve with the right combination of medical, nutritional, and naturopathic support.
Recognising Symptoms of PANS/PANDAS
Symptoms can develop suddenly and dramatically, often appearing overnight.
✔ Obsessive-compulsive behaviours (OCD-like symptoms) – Repetitive actions, intrusive thoughts, excessive fears.
✔ Tics or involuntary movements – Facial grimacing, blinking, throat clearing.
✔ Mood swings & emotional dysregulation – Anxiety, depression, rage episodes.
✔ Regressive behaviours – Sudden bedwetting, separation anxiety.
✔ Handwriting & motor skill deterioration – Shaky writing, clumsiness.
✔ Cognitive difficulties – Poor concentration, memory issues, brain fog.
✔ Sleep disturbances – Insomnia, night terrors.
✔ Physical symptoms – Joint pain, fatigue, sensitivity to light or sound.
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Children with PANS/PANDAS may fluctuate between severe episodes and periods of improvement, making it essential to address underlying immune dysfunction.
Our Naturopathic Approach to PANS & PANDAS
At NeuroThrive Paediatric Health, we take an individualised, whole-body approach to supporting children with PANS/PANDAS. We focus on:
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Gut-Brain-Immune Support
The gut and immune system play a direct role in brain health. We assess and address:
✔ Gut microbiome imbalances & leaky gut affecting immune regulation.
✔ Nutrient absorption issues that contribute to neurological dysfunction.
✔ Reducing inflammation linked to neuropsychiatric symptoms.
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Immune Modulation & Inflammation Control
Autoimmune-driven inflammation is a core issue in PANS/PANDAS. We use:
✔ Targeted herbal remedies to balance immune function.
✔ Nutritional therapy to regulate inflammation.
✔ Microbiome restoration to support a healthy immune response.
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Nutritional Deficiency Correction
Nutrient imbalances can worsen brain function and immune dysregulation. We optimise:
✔ Zinc, magnesium, omega-3s, B vitamins & iron for neurological health.
✔ Amino acids & essential fatty acids for neurotransmitter function.
✔ Individualised diet adjustments to support recovery.
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Stress & Nervous System Regulation
PANS/PANDAS symptoms often worsen with stress. We support:
✔ Calming nervous system regulation techniques.
✔ Adaptogenic herbs & nutrients to reduce stress reactivity.
✔ Lifestyle interventions to stabilise emotional well-being.