Autoimmune Disease
Common autoimmune conditions that we see and treat at CFNC include multiple sclerosis (MS), Hashimoto’s disease, Graves disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Our approach is targeted toward modulating immune system function to allow your body to function as optimally as possible. Traditional treatment is targeted at the end-organ; ie, thyroid medication for Hashimoto’s, which is important but the reason the thyroid is dysfunctional is because of the immune system dysregulation. We aim to treat the root cause of your condition and encourage communication with your other providers to ensure the most comprehensive care.
Immune System Dysregulation
Autoimmune conditions are caused by dysregulation of the immune system itself. It happens when the brain recognizes body tissue as foreign. Once this event happens there is no turning it off, so we MUST do our best to regulate the immune system and calm it down so that it minimally continues to destroy the targeted tissue.
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The process of the immune system targeting our own body tissue causes significant amounts of inflammation and the body struggles on its own to regulate. Most people will not get diagnosed with an autoimmune condition until about 60 percent of the targeted tissue has been destroyed. That means you have already lost significant function to that tissue before you learn that you have the condition.
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Functional medicine providers are trained to investigate and detect these changes in immune function early. If we are able to catch immune dysregulation before you have significant destruction of tissue then we can work to keep inflammation to a minimum using specific nutrition, supplementation and therapeutics targeted to address autoimmunity.
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For those that have a family history of autoimmune conditions or that have unexplained symptoms and all testing comes back “normal,” you should consider being evaluated for autoimmunity and start working on protocols to help keep your immune system functioning as optimally as possible.
Autoimmune Evaluation
A full medical history past and present, family medical history, physical evaluation and laboratory testing are the most important steps to understand your autoimmune condition. We investigate your autoimmunity in-depth and work to create the best individualized plan of care for you.
Diagnostic Testing for Autoimmune Disorders​
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Neurologial Exam
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Specific and specialty lab testing
Autoimmune Disorders Treatment
Treatment includes but is not limited to nutritional counseling, supplementation and therapeutic modalities. For our patients that do not require in office services we offer telehealth options once you have been seen for your initial evaluation.
Common Treatment Methods for Autoimmune Disorders​
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Diet and Lifestyle Changes
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Nutritional Counseling
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Individualized Supplementation
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Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
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Red Light Therapy
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Neurological Rehabilitation
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Bemer Therapy
