Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Is Fibromyalgia an Autoimmune Disorder? In-Depth Review and AnalysisIn this episode, we explore whether fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disorder, discussing a comprehensive review published in August 2023 by Dr. Daniel Clauw and other experts. The episode covers the multifaceted nature of fibromyalgia, including its symptoms, diagnostic challenges, similarities to other conditions, and the roles of cognitive, emotional, and inflammatory factors. It also dives into whether the recognition of low grade inflammation in many chronic health conditions like diabetes, Alzheimer's, osteoarthritis and coronary artery disease can be extrapolated to fibromyalgia using a mouse study looking at antibodies when an animal model of fibromyalgia has never been developed. 00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Autoimmune Disorders00:46 Understanding Fibromyalgia: Symptoms and Prevalence01:45 Challenges in Diagnosing Fibromyalgia02:35 The Reality of Fibromyalgia: Scientific Evidence02:53 The Bio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual_Environmental Model of Pain05:31 The Role of Neuroinflammation and Gut Health10:35 Is Fibromyalgia an Autoimmune Disease?14:14 Fibromyalgia is not an Autoimmune disease23:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Managing POTS: Insights and Treatments with Dr. Jeffrey BorisIn this episode, Dr. Jeffrey Boris, a pediatric cardiologist, delves into treatments for POTS, including specific medications and non-pharmacologic interventions. The discussion covers the roles of Pyridostigmine, IV saline infusions, fluid and salt intake, and stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. Dr. Boris emphasizes the importance of personalized care and highlights the complexities of POTS symptoms, noting gender-specific differences and the significance of premenstrual symptom variations. The necessity of education, social support, and nuanced medical approaches is also stressed, offering hope and guidance for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.00:00 Introduction and Overview00:36 Medications for POTS02:57 IV Saline Therapy07:18 Fluid and Salt Intake10:34 Caffeine and Sports Drinks11:54 Methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine for Cognitive Dysfunction13:58 Long-Term Outcomes Study17:11 Sex Differences in POTS21:48 Hope and Support for POTS Patients24:15 Telemedicine Practice and Services29:46 Conclusion and Key Takeaways Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this episode, we delve into POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). Our special guest, Dr. Jeffrey Boris, a seasoned pediatric cardiologist, shares his expertise on POTS, including its diagnosis, common triggers, symptoms, and multifaceted treatment approaches. The discussion includes Dr. Boris's journey into treating POTS, the challenges in diagnosing it, and the need for more comprehensive research and funding. This conversation also highlights the parallels with fibromyalgia and emphasizes the importance of individualized care for patients.00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Conditions00:35 Meet Dr. Jeffrey Boris: Pediatric Cardiologist01:56 Dr. Boris' Journey into POTS04:28 Understanding POTS: History and Definition09:29 Challenges in Diagnosing POTS14:00 Triggers and Symptoms of POTS19:07 Managing POTS: Approaches and Treatments26:26 Research and Future Directions in POTS33:54 Conclusion and Summary Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In the second part of the conversation with Dr. Megan Neff, a clinical psychologist specializing in autism, we delve deeper into autistic burnout, exploring triggers such as life transitions, masking, and sensory overwhelm. Megan  explains that burnout arises when stressors exceed coping abilities and offers self-help tips for managing an autistic style brain and nervous system. She emphasizes the importance of sensory self-care, recognizing and understanding one's neurodivergence, and proper screening by healthcare providers. The discussion also includes insights from her book, 'Self Care for Autistic People,' and advice for clinicians, loved ones, and individuals living with autism or ADHD.00:00 Introduction and Recap00:35 Understanding Autistic Burnout02:03 Triggers and Vulnerabilities05:03 Sensory Self-Care and Regulation09:00 Challenges and Misdiagnoses14:18 Empowerment Through Diagnosis16:59 Self-Care for Autistic Individuals24:23 Final Thoughts and Resources Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this first part of a two-part interview, we delve into the concept of autistic burnout with Dr. Megan Neff, a clinical psychologist and neurodivergent advocate. Dr. Neff shares her personal journey discovering her autism after her daughter's diagnosis and discusses the signs and misdiagnosis risks associated with autistic burnout. Highlighting the overlaps with other conditions like bipolar disorder, she emphasizes the importance of proper assessment and a balanced approach in diagnostic practices. Stay tuned next week for the continuation of this insightful conversation.00:00 Introduction to the Interview Series00:23 Listener's Story: A Parent's Struggle00:56 Understanding Autism and Interoception01:48 Introducing Dr. Megan Neff02:27 Dr. Neff's Professional Journey03:50 Challenges in Autism Diagnosis04:42 The Importance of Proper Assessment06:02 Dr. Neff's Background and Insights07:54 The Zigzag Path to Autism Awareness20:06 Autistic Burnout Explained24:25 Misdiagnosis and Functional Assessments32:01 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Understanding Lifestyle Medicine and Its Impact on Chronic ConditionsThis episode commemorates the three-year anniversary of the podcast hosted by Dr. Michael Lenz, a pediatrician, internal medicine physician, clinical lipidologist, and author of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia.' He explores the concept of lifestyle medicine, emphasizing its principles like whole food plant-based diets, regular physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, avoidance of risky substances, and positive social connections. He contrasts lifestyle medicine with other medical practices like allopathic, preventive, functional, and integrative medicine. Michael also discusses the chronic health conditions affected by lifestyle choices, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and autoimmune diseases. The episode highlights significant statistical findings and discusses the importance of patient participation in lifestyle changes to improve overall health and well-being.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:26 Understanding Fibromyalgia00:59 Introduction to Lifestyle Medicine02:40 Comparing Medical Approaches06:14 The Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine07:45 Impact of Lifestyle on Chronic Diseases13:18 Case Studies and Real-Life Examples19:00 The Role of Social Connections21:17 Success Stories and Clinical Evidence26:44 Implementing Lifestyle Medicine29:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Fibromyalgia and Magnesium: Exploring the Evidence and InsightsIn this episode of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia,' hosted by Dr. Michael Lenz, we delve into a literature review on magnesium and its potential impact on fibromyalgia. Dr. Lenz addresses a listener's question regarding the relationship between chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, suggesting that these conditions may be variations of the same syndrome. The episode includes an in-depth review of studies investigating the correlation between magnesium levels and fibromyalgia, exploring how different forms of magnesium supplementation might affect clinical parameters. Key findings show mixed results, highlighting the complex and inconsistent nature of magnesium's role in fibromyalgia. Dr. Lenz also discusses the challenges of accurately measuring magnesium status and the importance of placebo-controlled trials in understanding the true impact of magnesium on fibromyalgia symptoms.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:35 Listener Question: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome vs. Fibromyalgia01:08 Understanding Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome03:51 Magnesium and Fibromyalgia: An Overview10:41 Clinical Studies on Magnesium and Fibromyalgia19:26 Discussion and Conclusion20:16 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this episode, Dr. Michael Lenz, a seasoned pediatrician and internist, resumes his conversation with clinical psychologist Dr. Laurie Dos Santos. They delve into the complexities of supporting individuals with chronic medical conditions such as POTS, Dysautonomia, and fibromyalgia. Dr. Dos Santos discusses her approach to group and individual therapy, the importance of validating patients' experiences, and the impact of these conditions on adolescents and their families. The episode highlights a significant study, "You Look Perfectly Healthy to Me" on the quality of life for youth with POTS, stressing the need for more research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advocacy. Dis Santos shares her insights on understanding the biopsychosocial framework of symptoms and offers hope and practical advice for those living with chronic illnesses.00:00 Welcome Back to the Conversation with Dr. Lori Dosantos00:23 Introduction to the Host and the Podcast's Mission00:48 Resuming the Conversation: Group Therapy and State Reciprocity03:09 Deep Dive into POTS: Understanding Through Research and Patient Stories10:14 Collaborative Care: The Power of Interdisciplinary Teams13:31 The Genetic and Familial Connections of Chronic Conditions24:54 The Role of Therapy in Managing Chronic Illness26:24 Closing Thoughts and How to Reach Out for Support Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Understanding and Supporting Young Adults with Chronic Health ConditionsIn this episode, Dr. Michael Lenz hosts Dr. Laurie Dos Santos, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in working with adolescents and young adults. Dr. Dos Santos discusses her journey into psychology, her experience in addressing complex medical and mental health conditions such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and the importance of building strong relationships with clients. She emphasizes the significance of validation and support, and shares insights on managing chronic illness through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Dr. Dos Santos also highlights the value of support groups and her work with Evolvin Therapy and Consulting, which offers virtual services to clients across 42 states.00:00 Meet Dr. Lori Dos Santos: A Beacon of Hope for Young Adults01:56 Introducing Your Host: Dr. Michael Lenz02:27 Dr. Dos Santos' Journey into Psychology and Specialization05:32 Understanding and Empathizing with Patients' Struggles07:31 The Power of Support Groups in Healing08:25 Navigating the Challenges of Invisible Illnesses17:28 Effective Approaches for Managing Invisible Illnesses24:47 Expanding Access to Mental Health Care with Evolvin Therapy26:44 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Navigating Chronic Pain and Mental Health with Rebecca Stein. rebs2425@rebeccasteinmindbody.comIn this episode, Rebecca Stein, a therapist with lived experience of ADHD and chronic pain, discusses her journey from experiencing unrecognized ADD symptoms and chronic pain to becoming a psychologist who specializes in these areas. After enduring misdiagnoses and extensive medical consultations, Rebecca was finally diagnosed with ADD, which transformed her approach to managing symptoms through a combination of medication and therapy. She highlights the importance of understanding the intersection between ADHD and chronic pain, particularly in women, who often face unique challenges. Rebecca also shares insights into the impact of untreated ADHD on mental and physical health, the role of therapy, and the importance of having a supportive network. The conversation delves into burnout, trauma, and the significance of accurately diagnosing and treating ADHD for overall well-being.00:00 Introduction to Rebecca Stein's Journey with ADHD00:30 Rebecca's Personal Struggle with Chronic Pain and ADHD01:54 Misdiagnosis and the Journey to ADHD Diagnosis03:46 Early Symptoms and Misunderstandings of ADHD05:08 Understanding Burnout and Its Impact11:49 The Turning Point: Diagnosis and Understanding15:36 The Intersection of Chronic Pain and ADHD17:17 Challenges in Mental Health Work and Self-Care19:19 Addressing Patient Struggles and Misdiagnosis26:30 Final Thoughts and Advice for Those Struggling29:45 Contact Information and Closing Remarks Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz