PANS, or Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, is a form of pediatric inflammatory response tied to environmental triggers, leading to a variety of stress-induced mental, behavioral and physical symptoms.
Symptoms of PANS typically appear suddenly and can be severe. They are often accompanied by a variety of physical complaints as well, making diagnosis and treatment challenging.
Common physical symptoms of PANS include but are not limited to headaches, abdominal pain, exhaustion and sleep disturbances. Psychological symptoms can include severe anxiety, aggression, and depression.
Cognitively, changes in attention, language, sensory and motor skills, as well as difficulty with academic tasks, may occur. School avoidance is also common.
Other common symptoms include obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCD), tics, motor or vocal outbursts, rage episodes, and food aversion or fear of certain foods. Additional signs may include changes in behavior, mood, social interactions, impulse control, sleep and/or eating patterns, as well as emotional lability, irritability, and separation anxiety.
It is important to remember that PANS is a medical condition, and treatment is available that may reduce the severity of symptoms. Early diagnosis is important, as the symptoms can be managed more effectively the earlier the intervention.
A doctor or mental health professional can diagnose PANS and provide appropriate treatment.
What triggers a pans flare?
The exact cause of a PAN flare is not known, however there are several factors that may play a role in triggering flares. These include physical activity, emotional stress, environmental triggers, and certain foods or medications.
People with PAN may find that certain activities or environments, such as become sunburned, exposure to cold temperatures, alcohol or nicotine exposure, or use of certain medications (including some antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and sulfa drugs) can sometimes trigger flares.
Additionally, emotional stress or even minor changes in daily routine can act as a trigger for flares in people with PAN.
It is important to note that for some people with PAN, some of these triggers may not be present and/or flares may occur with no obvious triggers. In addition, even if certain triggers are found, it is difficult to predict how a person will react to any given trigger.
For this reason, an individual with PAN should work closely with their doctor to identify and manage possible triggers to help minimize PAN flares.
Can pans be cured?
Yes, pans can be cured in a variety of ways depending on what type of pan is in need of curing. Cast iron pans can be cured through seasoning, which involves applying oil to the entire surface of the pan, baking it in an oven, and repeating the process until the pan has formed a protective layer of polymerized oil.
Non-stick pans can be cured by applying a thin layer of coconut oil or vegetable oil and baking the pan at a low temperature for a few minutes. If a stainless steel pan needs curing, it is best to buy a pre-seasoned pan for optimal results.
Additionally, it is recommended to hand wash pans, as opposed to using a dishwasher, to preserve the surface of the pan and ensure proper curing.
How do you get Pans disease?
Pans disease stands for Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, and is caused by an abnormal immune response to an infection. It is characterized by sudden, severe, and pervasive changes in behavior, mood, or both, in addition to physical symptoms such as headaches, abdominal pain, frequent urination, and changes in vision.
Most children experience PANS following an infection, such as strep throat, that triggers an abnormal reaction in their immune system. This causes inflammation in the brain and affects neurotransmitter signaling, leading to the sudden onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Diagnosis of PANS involves an extensive evaluation of a child’s medical history, physical exam, laboratory tests, and neuropsychiatric examinations. The best treatment for PANS includes a combination of medications, psychotherapy, and family counseling.
Additionally, a child’s diet may be adjusted to support their immune system and prevent future episodes.
Do pans symptoms come and go?
Yes, it is possible for PANs symptoms to come and go. Some affected individuals may experience fluctuations in their symptoms over time, with periods of symptom intensity varying. For some, their symptoms may persist for extended periods of time at the same intensity, and for others, the intensity of the symptoms may come and go periodically.
Common symptoms of PANs can include aggression, hyperactivity, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, motor coordination issues, anxiety, and sensory processing issues. Different individuals may experience these in various ways, and the severity can vary in intensity over time.
Therefore, some individuals may experience periods when their symptoms are more pronounced or cases when they may appear to have abated or become less noticeable. For some, it may be helpful to find the right interventions, treatments, or a combination of both to help reduce the impact of their symptoms and manage them over time.
What does PANS look like in adults?
PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) is an autoimmune disorder which has recently become more widely recognized, although it has been around for many years. It usually begins in childhood but may also affect adults, although it is less common.
In adults, PANS symptoms may include headache, concentration problems, changes in behaviour, mood swings, obsessive compulsive behaviours, difficulty sleeping, and gastrointestinal problems. Other physical symptoms such as joint pain, motor coordination issues and constipation may also occur.
In terms of mental health, people with PANS may experience confusion, depression, panic attacks, and anger. Adults with PANS may also exhibit any of the more common symptoms seen in children such as anorexia, excessive fear of certain people or situations, and changes in the way they speak or the tone of their voice.
It can also cause cognitive problems such as difficulty with working memory and focusing, which can affect one’s ability to learn and function day-to-day.
The cause of PANS in adults is not yet fully understood and there is no definitive test to diagnose it. However, if symptoms begin abruptly or worsen significantly over a brief period of time, PANS should be considered in adults, as it is in children.
Treatment typically involves medications and/or therapy, and in adults, the focus is usually on psychological interventions and cognitive behavioural therapy. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis as there may be underlying conditions that can contribute to the symptoms of PANS, so medical and mental health professionals should be consulted for proper evaluation and assessment.
What is the treatment for pans?
The treatment for pans (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) typically involves a comprehensive treatment plan consisting of the following elements:
1. Medication – This may include low-dose antibiotics or antifungals, anticonvulsants, and/or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT is a form of psychotherapy that teaches patients how to change their behaviors, thoughts and emotions to better cope with their disorder.
3. Nutritional Support – Patients often need additional dietary support, such as taking Omega 3 fatty acids or other supplements.
4. Physical Activity – Regular exercise and physical therapy can improve overall brain functioning.
5. Occupational Therapy – This type of therapy helps patients develop daily habits that help with functioning.
6. Support Groups – Patients can explore options for connecting with others with similar experiences, to provide moral support and problem-solving advice.
Overall, the goal of treatment for pans is to reduce symptoms, improve overall functioning, and provide support to the patient and the family during this difficult time. Treatment typically takes a multidisciplinary approach, depending on the individual’s needs.
It is important to find an experienced practitioner who is familiar with pans and is willing to provide an individualized approach to treatment.
What does pans do to the brain?
Pans (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) is a neurological condition characterized by the sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and behavioral changes in children. Research suggests that it may be caused by an abnormal immune response, such as an infection or vaccination.
A study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology has shown that this abnormal immune response can cause changes in the brain. Specifically, the researchers found that mice bred to develop PANS showed decreased activity of the brain chemical glutamate, which is involved in behavior, learning, and memory.
In addition, the mice also showed decreased activity of GABA, which is a brain chemical involved in emotion and behavior regulation, as well as increased levels of inflammation throughout the brain. These changes could be responsible for the symptoms associated with PANS, such as anxiety, loss of energy, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and behavioral changes.
Further research is needed to understand the exact cause of PANS, its effects on the brain, and explore potential treatments.
How long does it take to cure pans?
The length of time it takes to cure pans varies depending on the type of pan and its condition. Cast iron skillets that are new will need to be seasoned, which generally takes 2-3 coats of cooking oil and 2-3 hours of heating and cooling.
Pre-seasoned pans may only need one coat of oil, which can take 30 minutes or less to complete. A traditional, non-coated pan will take longer to cure because it needs to be coated with cooking oil multiple times and heated each time.
The curing process can take 3 hours or more and should be completed sporadically over time to help build up an even layer of polymerized oil.
Can stress trigger pans?
Yes, stress can trigger or worsen symptoms of panic disorder. Stress and anxious feelings can be both a cause and a result of panic attacks. Life events like the death of a loved one, natural disasters, or even work deadlines can all be triggers.
Negative thoughts, worrying, and physical sensations like chest tightness can also all be factors that lead to a panic attack. Stress management and relaxation techniques, like meditation or yoga, can help reduce the likelihood of a panic attack.
If a person experiences frequent panic attacks or anticipates them, they should seek professional help. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for managing panic disorder and can provide both short-term relief and help with long-term recovery.
What happens if pans is not treated?
If pan is not treated, it can lead to several different complications and may ultimately result in death. The most common complications of untreated pan include severe neurological problems, such as stroke, seizures, and quadriplegia; mucosal and gastrointestinal damage; and overwhelming infection.
In severe cases, the inability to fight infections can lead to sepsis, which can be fatal. Furthermore, if left untreated, pan can also cause life-threatening anemia, which can also be fatal. Finally, it is important to note that pan can also lead to organ damage in the form of cardiomyopathy, where the heart muscle is weakened, affecting its ability to pump blood.
In more extreme cases, pan can also lead to lung and liver damage. Thus, it is essential to get treatment for pan as soon as possible in order to prevent the development of these serious and potentially life-threatening complications.
How long do pans flares last?
Pans flares typically last for between 5 and 10 minutes depending on a variety of factors, such as the size of the flare and the atmosphere in which it is deployed. Generally, brighter flares will last longer, with larger flares lasting nearly 10 minutes, while smaller flares will last closer to 5 minutes.
It is also important to take into account the weather conditions at the time of deployment, such as wind and rain, which can reduce the duration of the flare. Additionally, metal-based flares burn out more quickly than other types of flares, so the type of flare being used can also affect the length of time the flare will be visible.
Can yeast cause pans?
No, yeast cannot cause pans. Pancostas is a condition caused by the abnormal buildup of immunoglobulins (antibodies) and other proteins in the pancreas, and yeast infection is not known to cause this.
However, Candida albicans (a type of yeast) can proliferate and cause infections in some people with pans. This is known as Candidiasis, and symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue.
In cases when Candida is the cause, it can be treated with antifungal medications. Therefore, yeast itself is not the cause of pans, but it could be in individual cases where a Candida infection is present.
How do pans get ruined?
Pans can get ruined in a variety of ways. The most common cause of damage to pans is improper usage or cleaning. For example, metal utensils can damage non-stick pans and scratch the surface of metal pans, resulting in food sticking and becoming more difficult to clean.
Pans can also be damaged by too much heat, which can cause warping, discoloration, and scratches. Lastly, pans can be damaged by being dropped or knocked off the stove surface. This can cause dents, chips, and scratches which can make them unuseable.
Is PANS a mental illness?
PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) is a medical condition that can cause a sudden onset of severe psychiatric symptoms in children and teenagers. However, it is important to note that PANS is not a mental illness in the traditional sense.
While it does include many psychiatric symptoms, PANS is primarily caused by an abnormal immune response and can be triggered by a wide variety of infectious agents or environmental factors. Unlike traditional mental illness, which usually require long-term psychotherapy and/or psychopharmacological treatment, an acute PANS episode can often be treated with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory agents and other immunomodulating medications.
While PANS can cause significant distress and disruption in a young person’s life, the prognosis is often excellent as long as the proper treatment is administered in a timely fashion.