EDS, MCAS & Dysautonomia: Autoimmunity Triggers & Brain Retraining with Dr. Ina Stephens | Ep 217

Summary

Key Points

• Dr. Stevens suggests that the apparent increase in hEDS/HSD diagnoses is primarily due to increased recognition and awareness, rather than an actual rise in incidence, as many older patients are now receiving diagnoses for lifelong symptoms. 4:22
• Environmental factors like viruses (e.g., COVID-19, Epstein-Barr), mold, and toxins can act as triggers in genetically predisposed individuals, setting off inflammatory cascades that worsen hypermobility and comorbidities like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). 6:52
• Molecular mimicry explains how viruses can trigger autoimmune responses by having proteins that resemble the body's own, leading the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy tissues, as seen with influenza and Type 1 diabetes. 8:21
• Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize, is a crucial concept for managing chronic conditions, with brain retraining programs like Primal Trust and mindfulness meditation helping to quiet the amygdala's threat response and reduce inflammation. 22:27
• Autoimmune autonomic gangliopathy, a rare condition where the body produces autoantibodies against the autonomic nervous system ganglia, can cause severe autonomic dysfunction and may require immune modulator treatments like IVIG. 41:34
• Autonomic dysfunction can stem from numerous acquired causes beyond hypermobility, including trauma (spinal cord, head), infections (viruses, fungi), autoimmune diseases, nutritional deficiencies (B vitamins), heavy metal poisoning, neurodegenerative disorders, and certain medications. 43:00
• For children experiencing vasovagal syncope and other autonomic symptoms, non-pharmacologic treatments are prioritized, including aggressive hydration, increased salt intake, raising the head of the bed, compression garments, and core muscle strengthening through physical therapy. 59:12
• Strengthening core muscles, encompassing the pectorals, latissimus dorsi, deep transverse abdominis, pelvic floor, glutes, quadriceps, and hamstrings, is vital for improving circulation and regulating blood pressure in patients with autonomic dysfunction. 63:03
• Patients with hypermobility or a family history of aneurysms should exercise caution with fluoroquinolone antibiotics due to their association with tendinopathy and rare but serious complications like aortic dissection, and should discuss alternative treatments with their doctor. 67:52
• The UVA Health EDS and Hypermobility Disorders Center is initiating research to collect blood and tissue samples from hEDS/HSD patients to identify biomarkers and better understand the underlying mechanisms and diverse presentations of these conditions. 78:00