PANS/PANDAS

PANS and PANDAS can cause sudden and dramatic changes in a child’s behavior, emotions, and neurological function. At A Brighter Tomorrow Whole Health Center, we work with families to evaluate potential immune-related triggers and develop personalized care plans that support healing and long-term wellness.

Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS)

PANS is a condition in which a child experiences a sudden and often dramatic onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms, sometimes developing over the course of just a few days. Unlike many developmental or behavioral disorders that progress gradually, children with PANS may appear to change almost overnight.

Researchers believe these symptoms are often related to an abnormal immune response and inflammation affecting the brain. While infections can be a trigger, environmental factors and other stressors may also contribute.

Common symptoms of PANS may include:

• Sudden obsessive-compulsive behaviors (OCD)
• Severe anxiety
• Mood swings or emotional instability
• Tics or repetitive movements
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory sensitivities
• Behavioral regression
• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in school performance
• Irritability or aggression
• Restrictive eating behaviors
• Separation anxiety

At A Brighter Tomorrow Whole Health Center, we take a comprehensive approach to evaluating children with suspected PANS by considering immune health, nutritional status, inflammation, and other factors that may be contributing to symptoms.

Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS)

PANDAS is considered a specific subset of PANS in which symptoms are triggered by a streptococcal (strep) infection, such as strep throat. Following the infection, the immune system may mistakenly target healthy brain tissue, resulting in sudden neurological and behavioral changes.

Children with PANDAS often experience an abrupt onset of obsessive-compulsive behaviors, motor or vocal tics, anxiety, emotional outbursts, or personality changes that can be frightening for both the child and their family.

Symptoms commonly associated with PANDAS include:

• Sudden onset of OCD symptoms
• Motor or vocal tics
• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Emotional outbursts
• Irritability
• Mood changes
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty concentrating
• Regression in behavior or skills
• Decline in school performance

Our providers recognize that every child is unique. We work closely with families to evaluate potential contributing factors, identify possible triggers, and develop individualized care plans designed to support both the child and the family’s long-term goals.