Hormones & HPA Axis Dysfunction
Hormones act like the body’s personal messengers, keeping everything in balance—a state known as homeostasis. They regulate critical processes such as metabolism, growth, reproduction, and even mood. When they’re functioning properly, life runs smoothly. But even slight imbalances can cause major disruptions, leading to noticeable health problems.
Hormones and Their Role in PANS/PANDAS
For children with PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) or PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections), hormonal imbalances can make managing these conditions even harder. These disorders cause sudden, often severe neuropsychiatric symptoms, and when hormones are out of balance, symptoms like anxiety, OCD behaviors, and mood swings can become more intense. Hormones influence not only physical growth but also brain function, immune response, and stress management, which makes them particularly impactful in PANS/PANDAS cases.
The HPA Axis: The Body’s Stress Manager
A key system regulating the body’s response to stress is the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis). This system controls the production of cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone. Normally, cortisol peaks in the morning to get us moving and drops in the evening to allow for restful sleep. But chronic stress, which is common in children with PANS/PANDAS, can throw this delicate system off balance.
When the HPA axis becomes dysfunctional, we can see two major issues:
- Hyperactivation: If the HPA axis is overactive, cortisol levels remain elevated. This can worsen anxiety, OCD behaviors, and sleep disturbances, all common in PANS/PANDAS.
- Hypoactivation: On the other hand, when the HPA axis underperforms, cortisol levels fall too low, leading to adrenal fatigue. Symptoms like chronic tiredness, low stress tolerance, and mood swings can make life even more challenging.
Cortisol and Adrenal Health
Cortisol, often called the “stress hormone,” plays a vital role in regulating sleep and maintaining brain health. But when cortisol is out of balance, it can lead to problems like insomnia, anxiety, and brain fog—issues that are already problematic in kids with PANS/PANDAS.
There are natural ways to support adrenal health and balance cortisol levels. Ashwagandha and rhodiola, for instance, are well-known adaptogenic herbs that help regulate cortisol and support the adrenal glands. Combined with lifestyle strategies like regular exercise, mindfulness, and a consistent sleep routine, these interventions can help stabilize cortisol levels and improve sleep quality.
Keeping Kids on an Even Keel: Blood Sugar and Mood Balance
Balanced blood sugar is crucial to keeping kids feeling good throughout the day. When blood sugar levels spike and crash, it doesn’t just zap energy—it can also cause mood swings, irritability, and trouble concentrating. This is especially true for children with PANS/PANDAS, where emotional regulation is already a challenge.
Insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar by allowing glucose to enter cells for energy, plays a key role here. When blood sugar fluctuates wildly, kids can feel tired, cranky, or “hangry.” To prevent these spikes and crashes, a diet focused on whole foods with a low glycemic index—which break down slowly in the body—is essential.
Adding protein and healthy fats to meals also helps. These nutrients slow down sugar absorption, providing a steady energy release and keeping kids feeling full and focused longer. Breakfasts like eggs and avocado toast or snacks like nuts and apples can help stabilize blood sugar, reduce mood swings, and support better focus.
Keeping blood sugar levels steady doesn’t just mean better energy—it leads to fewer mood swings and a more harmonious day overall.
The Endocrine System and PANS/PANDAS
The endocrine system—which includes glands like the thyroid, pituitary, pancreas, and adrenal glands—plays an essential role in regulating hormones. When this system is disrupted, it can have a direct impact on children with PANS/PANDAS.
- Thyroid: This gland is crucial for regulating metabolism and energy. Imbalances here can lead to mood issues, tiredness, and weight changes.
- Sex hormones: Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are particularly volatile during puberty, which can intensify PANS/PANDAS symptoms. Estrogen, in particular, can influence immune responses and may increase the likelihood of autoimmune flare-ups.
- Insulin: Blood sugar regulation is closely tied to insulin, which manages glucose levels in the blood. For children with PANS/PANDAS, stabilizing blood sugar levels is vital to keeping energy, mood, and behavior in check. Fluctuations can worsen neuropsychiatric symptoms like anxiety and difficulty focusing.
Melatonin and Sleep Regulation
Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, is a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Sleep disturbances are common in children with PANS/PANDAS, often made worse by anxiety and OCD behaviors. When melatonin production is disrupted, sleep quality suffers, leading to a vicious cycle of worsening neuropsychiatric symptoms. Supporting melatonin balance, either through natural supplementation or improved sleep hygiene, can help manage these sleep issues and improve overall function.
Reducing Environmental Toxins: Protecting the Endocrine System
A piece of the puzzle for many families dealing is reducing exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These harmful substances, found in plastics, pesticides, and personal care products, can interfere with hormone balance. Over time, they may contribute to immune system dysfunction, metabolic issues, and reproductive health problems.
Reducing EDC exposure involves making small but impactful changes, like switching to organic produce, using glass or stainless-steel containers instead of plastic, and choosing natural household and personal care products. These steps can help protect your child’s endocrine system and support their overall well-being.
Managing PANS/PANDAS is an intense and often exhausting journey, not just for the child, but for the entire family. Understanding how hormones, the HPA axis, and blood sugar regulation play into your child’s condition is key to helping them heal. But it’s equally important for you, as a parent, to consider these factors for your own health.
Caring for a child with PANS/PANDAS can be incredibly stressful, and chronic stress can take a toll on your body in ways that are easy to overlook. Imbalances in cortisol, blood sugar swings, and hormonal disruptions can affect your energy and mood. By supporting your own hormonal health, you’ll not only feel better but also be in a stronger position to support your child.
Small, manageable changes, both for your child and for yourself, can lead to significant improvements in your family’s quality of life.
Remember, healing is a process. Every step you take toward balance and well-being, for both your child and yourself, brings you closer to a healthier life.