Why Kids With Down Syndrome Are More Susceptible to PANS/PANDAS

Down syndrome often presents overlooked health challenges in children, including gut dysfunction, metabolic issues, and PANS/PANDAS. In this episode of the Demystifying PANS/PANDAS Podcast, Dr. Erica Pierson joins me to dive deep into why these conditions are frequently misdiagnosed, how inflammation and immune dysfunction play a role, and what parents can do to optimize their child’s health with targeted interventions.

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Down syndrome presents a unique set of health challenges in children, including increased susceptibility to immune dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and conditions like PANS/PANDAS. Unfortunately, many of these issues are dismissed as typical traits of the syndrome, leading to misdiagnosis and missed treatment opportunities. In this episode of the Demystifying PANS/PANDAS Podcast, Dr. Erica Pierson joins me to explain how ‘diagnostic overshadowing’ prevents children from getting the care they need and highlights the importance of looking beyond genetics to address environmental and metabolic triggers. We dive into practical strategies for improving gut health, correcting nutrient deficiencies, and supporting immune function to help children with this syndrome thrive.

Dr. Pierson also emphasizes the importance of individualized care, urging parents to dig deeper when their child is struggling. From recognizing the early signs of PANS/PANDAS to implementing targeted interventions like high-dose folinic acid and mitochondrial support, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for families navigating these complex conditions.

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Dr. Erica Peirson is a naturopathic physician specializing in supporting children with special needs, a passion that began in childhood and deepened when her own son was diagnosed with Mosaic Down Syndrome. Frustrated by the lack of information available to parents, she dedicated herself to researching and sharing insights to help children thrive. She earned her degree from the National University of Naturopathic Medicine in 2005 and is a licensed primary care physician in Oregon and Idaho.

With a background in emergency medicine and academic teaching, Dr. Peirson blends conventional and naturopathic approaches in her practice. She spent 14 years working at Shriners Hospital for Children and later taught Cell Biology and Anatomy and Physiology at Portland Community College. Her expertise in functional medicine and developmental disorders makes her a valuable voice in understanding conditions like PANS/PANDAS.

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