In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Ilene Ruhoy, a board-certified neurologist and environmental toxicologist, for an in-depth discussion on brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, and chronic fatigue in conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and dysautonomia. Dr. Ruhoy shares insights on the immune system’s role in neurological symptoms, the impact of mast cell activation, and the role of treatments like peptides, IVIG (intravenous gammaglobulin), plasmapheresis, and immune modulators. They also discuss the hidden effects of histamine on the brain, how sensory sensitivity contributes to fatigue, and the role of regenerative medicine in connective tissue healing. This episode is packed with cutting-edge research and practical solutions for improving cognitive function and energy levels.

Takeaways:

Brain Fog & Fatigue Are Linked to Immune Dysfunction: Cognitive dysfunction in conditions like EDS, MCAS, and POTS is often tied to inflammatory responses and immune dysregulation rather than just histamine alone.

Plasmapheresis & IVIG Can Help Some Patients: For severe cases, plasmapheresis removes inflammatory mediators from the blood, and IVIG helps regulate immune function, leading to cognitive and fatigue improvements.

Histamine Plays a Complex Role in Brain Function: While histamine can trigger symptoms in MCAS patients, it also has neuroprotective effects, making antihistamine overuse a potential issue for some.

Sensory Sensitivity Increases Cognitive Load: Many people with EDS and related conditions experience hypersensitivity to light, noise, and smells, which can overwhelm the nervous system and worsen fatigue.

Regenerative Medicine May Support Connective Tissue Repair: Peptides, stem cell therapy, and targeted immune modulation are promising areas of research to help strengthen connective tissue and reduce systemic inflammation.

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Learn about Dr. Ilene Ruhoy

Instagram: @IleneRuhoyMDPhD

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Podcast (YT): @Unraveledpod

Twitter: @RuhoyMD

Bluesky: @ruhoy.bsky.social

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