Do you know what pandas disease is? If not, you’re not alone. This relatively unknown condition affects pandas in a very serious way, and can often be fatal. In this blog post, we will discuss pandas disease in detail and tell you everything you need to know about it. We will also provide information on how to help prevent pandas from getting the disease in the first place.
Contents
PANDAS Disease: Meaning 
PANDAS is an acronym for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections. A child may develop PANDAS after a strep throat or scarlet fever infection. In PANDAS, the body’s immune system produces antibodies that attack healthy cells in the child’s brain and nervous system.
There is no specific group of people who are more at risk for PANDAS disease than others. However, children between the ages of three and twelve are more likely to develop the condition. Additionally, those with a family history of the disease may be more susceptible to developing it themselves.
What Are The Symptoms?
- Sudden onset of OCD or tics
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- behavioral changes
- Sleeping problems
- Sensory issues
- appetite changes
- difficulties in school or with friends. pandas disease can also cause physical symptoms such as:
- headaches
- abdominal pain
- joint pain
- enuresis (bed wetting) or encopresis (soiling)
- rashes
- chickenpox-like rash
- lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes)
What Are The Risk Elements?
There are several risk factors associated with the development of PANDAS disease. These include:
Having a streptococcal infection
PANDAS is a condition that results from having a streptococcal infection, such as strep throat or scarlet fever. The infection triggers an immune response that causes the body to produce antibodies against its tissues. These antibodies attack the brain, resulting in inflammation and a variety of neurological symptoms.
Being exposed to certain environmental factors 
PANDAS disease is caused by exposure to certain environmental factors. These factors can include pandas, viruses, and bacteria. It can also be caused by a reaction to a vaccine. For example, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine can cause PANDAS disease. Additionally, PANDAS disease can be caused by a reaction to a strep infection which is a bacteria.
Having certain medical conditions
There are a few different medical conditions that can result in PANDAS disease. One of the most common is strep throat. Having strep throat can cause an inflammatory response in the body that can lead to PANDAS disease.
Other medical conditions that have been linked to PANDAS disease include Lyme disease, mononucleosis, and HIV/AIDS. Having one of these medical conditions does not guarantee that a person will develop PANDAS disease, but it does increase their risk.
Taking certain medications
PANDAS disease is caused by a reaction to certain medications. The most common medication that causes PANDAS disease is penicillin. Other medications that can cause PANDAS disease include sulfa drugs, tetracycline, and erythromycin. Taking any of these medications can result in PANDAS disease because they all interact with the immune system.
Having a weakened immune system
PANDAS disease occurs when the body’s immune system is weakened. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as exposure to a virus or infection. When the immune system is weakened, it cannot effectively fight off bacteria and other infections. This can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body, which can cause a variety of symptoms.
Being under stress
There are a few schools of thought on how stress leads to PANDAS disease. One theory is that when a person is under stress, their immune system is suppressed. This suppression of the immune system can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria in the body, which can cause PANDAS disease. Another theory is that stress can cause the body to produce too much of the hormone cortisol. This excess cortisol can then lead to inflammation in the body, which can trigger PANDAS disease.
Having a history of psychological trauma
It’s unclear exactly how pandas disease develops, but researchers believe that it may be the result of a combination of psychological trauma. pandas disease sufferers often have a history of psychological trauma, such as abuse or neglect. This trauma may trigger the onset of the disease, or it may make the symptoms worse. For example, if someone with pandas disease experiences a traumatic event, they may start to exhibit new or worsening symptoms.
All of these factors can increase a person’s risk of developing PANDAS disease. If you have any of these risk factors, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the condition so that you can seek treatment as soon as possible.
What Are The Consequences?
PANDAS disease can cause several serious consequences. These can include
Cognitive Difficulties 
PANDAS disease is a form of cognitive impairment that results from infection with the bacteria Streptococcus. This type of infection can cause several problems, including difficulties with learning and memory, as well as problems with executive functioning.
For example, PANDAS patients may have difficulty remembering how to do simple tasks, such as brushing their teeth or getting dressed. They may also have trouble with more complex tasks, such as planning and organizing.
Behavioral Problems
PANDAS disease results in behavioral problems by affecting the body’s immune system. When the body’s immune system is affected, it can cause a number of problems, including behavioral problems. The most common symptom of PANDAS disease is a sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
For example, a child with PANDAS may suddenly start to excessively wash their hands or obsessively clean their room. Or, a child with PANDAS may start to have tics or compulsions, such as blinking their eyes or twirling their hair.
Physical Impairments
PANDAS disease is a debilitating condition that results in physical impairments. There are various reasons for this. Firstly, PANDAS disease results in the deterioration of motor skills. This is because PANDAS disease causes the body to produce less dopamine, which is responsible for motor control. As a result, patients with PANDAS disease often have problems with coordination and balance. Some examples of physical impairments include :
- Difficulty walking
- Poor coordination
- tremors
- Muscle weakness
Psychological Distress
PANDAS disease results in psychological distress, indeed. One theory is that PANDAS disease creates an autoimmune response in the body which causes inflammation in the brain. This inflammation then results in psychiatric symptoms.
Another theory is that PANDAS disease may be caused by a strep infection that “triggers” a misdirected immune response against the brain. This theory is supported by the fact that many children with PANDAS disease have a history of strep infections. Whatever the underlying cause, PANDAS disease results in psychiatric symptoms that can be very distressing for children and their families.
These psychiatric symptoms can include sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive behaviors, tics, separation anxiety, irritability, mood swings, aggression, and regression in skills such as toilet training or bed wetting. As you can imagine, these symptoms can be very disruptive to a child’s life and their family’s life.
Social Isolation
PANDAS disease is a debilitating neurological disorder that can result in social isolation. For example, PANDAS can cause a child to become afraid of other people, animals, and even inanimate objects. In some cases, children with PANDAS become so afraid of the world around them that they refuse to leave their homes.
This can have a profound effect on their social development and may even lead to depression and anxiety. Social isolation can also be a side effect of other disorders such as ADHD, OCD, and autism.
Family Conflict
PANDAS disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can result in family conflict. The symptoms of PANDAS disease can be extremely disruptive to the family because they can cause the affected child to act out in ways that are completely out of character.
In some cases, the child may become aggressive or violent, which can lead to arguments and even physical fights between family members. In other cases, the child may withdraw from the family and refuse to participate in activities that they once enjoyed.
This can cause a great deal of stress for the parents and other family members, who may feel like they are walking on eggshells around the child. In severe cases, PANDAS disease can even result in the child being removed from the home by child protective services.
School Failure
PANDAS disease is a serious medical condition that can result in school failure. Let’s take an example. A child with PANDAS disease may have difficulty paying attention in class. As a result, the child’s grades may suffer and he or she may eventually be held back a grade or even drop out of school. The reason is that PANDAS disease makes it difficult for children to concentrate and focus on their studies.
Suicide
PANDAS disease is a serious psychiatric disorder that can result in suicide. For example, PANDAS disease can cause a person to become severely depressed and anxious, and they may also experience delusions and hallucinations.
Additionally, PANDAS disease can also lead to self-harm and even suicide. Let’s take an example. A person with PANDAS disease may become severely depressed and anxious because of the constant thoughts of death and dying. Additionally, this person may also experience delusions and hallucinations. As a result, this person may attempt or succeed in harming themselves or taking their own life.
Diagnosis 
PANDAS disease is diagnosed by a combination of symptoms, physical exam findings, and laboratory tests. The most important symptom is the sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive behaviors or tics. Other symptoms may include:
Anxiety
– Depression
– Mood swings
– Aggression
– irritability
– Sleep problems
In addition to the sudden onset of symptoms, PANDAS disease is also characterized by a close temporal association with a streptococcal infection. A child with PANDAS disease will typically have had a strep throat or scarlet fever in the past six weeks.
Laboratory tests are not diagnostic for PANDAS disease, but they can be helpful in ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms. A blood test for antistreptolysin O (ASO) antibodies is often performed, as well as a throat culture to look for evidence of a current strep infection. A neuropsychiatric evaluation may also be conducted to assess for other psychiatric conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
During your diagnosis, doctor may ask you about your family’s medical history, as well as your child’s developmental milestones. It is important to be honest and open with your doctor to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Your doctor may ask you some questions like :
– When did you first notice the symptoms?
– Have the symptoms been continuous or come and go?
– What seems to make the symptoms better or worse?
– Does your child have any other medical conditions?
– What medications does your child take?
– Has your child recently had a strep throat or scarlet fever?
– Does anyone in your family have OCD or tics?
during the appointment, the doctor will also perform a physical exam. This will help to rule out other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms. These may include some tests such as :
– Complete blood count (CBC)
– Sed rate
– C-reactive protein (CRP) level
– Throat culture
– Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer
– Neuropsychiatric evaluation
After all of the information has been gathered, your doctor will be able to make a diagnosis of PANDAS disease. Treatment will then be started to help relieve the symptoms and improve the child’s quality of life.
How Can Professional Treatments Help?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best treatment approach for PANDAS disease will vary depending on the individual case.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that can help people with PANDAS disease manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. CBT focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to the person’s PANDAS symptoms. CBT may involve exposure therapy, which involves gradually exposing the person to their PANDAS triggers in a safe and controlled environment.
- Stress management: Stress management is a key component in the treatment of PANDAS Disease. There are many ways to manage stress, including relaxation techniques, exercise, and positive thinking, among others. They will help you cope with the symptoms in a more constructive way. As you work on your stress management skills, you may find that your symptoms improve.
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can help people with PANDAS manage their symptoms and anxiety. It can also help people identify and change any negative thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to their condition. In some cases, psychotherapy may be combined with medication to help people with PANDAS disease manage their symptoms.
- However, some common treatment methods for PANDAS disease include:– Antibiotics: these can be used to help control the bacteria that may be causing the disease.– Steroids: these can help to reduce inflammation and ease symptoms such as pain.
– Intravenous immunoglobulin: this can help to boost the immune system and fight off infection.
– Plasma exchange: this is a more aggressive treatment approach that can be used in severe cases of PANDAS disease.
How Can Lifestyle Changes Help? 
PANDAS Disease is a debilitating disease that can cause many problems for those who suffer from it. The good news is that there are things that can be done to help manage and overcome the disease. One of the most important things that can be done is to introduce new lifestyle changes. Some changes you can introduce include:
- Talking to your loved ones: It’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your close friends and family about PANDAS Disease. This will help them understand what you’re going through and how they can best support you.
- Eating a healthy diet: A nutritious diet is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for those with PANDAS Disease. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help improve your overall health and well-being.
- Getting enough sleep: Getting enough rest is crucial for people with PANDAS Disease. Make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep every night.
- Reading good books: books can be a great way to escape from the stresses of everyday life. They can also help you learn more about PANDAS Disease and how to cope with it.
- Spending time in nature: Spending time in nature can help reduce stress, improve your mood, and give you a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Indulging in your goals: It’s important to have goals and things to look forward to in life. Having something to focus on can help you stay motivated and keep your mind off of your PANDAS Disease.
Making even just a few of these lifestyle changes can make a big difference in managing and overcoming PANDAS Disease. It’s important to do what works best for you and to find what brings you joy. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your loved ones or a professional if you need it. Remember, you are not alone in this battle. There are many others who are fighting alongside you. You can overcome PANDAS Disease.
Conclusion
In the end of this article, it is concluded that PANDAS Disease is a debilitating disease that can cause many problems for those who suffer from it. The good news is that there are things that can be done to help manage and overcome the disease. There are plenty of resources available to help you on your journey to recovery. Those who wait for pandas disease to just go away will have a harder time, however, those who take an active role in their recovery stand a much better chance. Therefore, it is important to take charge of your life and make the necessary changes to improve your overall health and well-being.
Professional Guidance is the first step to moving toward your healing journey. You can try reaching Therapy Mantra to seek expert help in the comfort of your own home. Our therapists will help you get a solution to manage and overcome your problem. You can book your online therapy and talk directly to your assigned mentor. You may also download our free OCD treatment app on Android or iOS.
