INFLAMMATION IS A “HOT” TOPIC IN MEDICINE. It appears connected to almost every known chronic disease — from heart disease to cancer, diabetes to obesity, autism to dementia, and even depression. Other inflammatory diseases such as allergies, asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune disease are increasing at dramatic rates. As physicians we are trained to shut off inflammation with aspirin, anti-inflammatory medication such as Advil or Motrin, steroids and increasingly more powerful immune suppressing medication with serious side effects. But we are not trained to find and treat the underlying causes of inflammation in chronic disease. Hidden allergens, infections, environmental toxins, an inflammatory diet, and stress are the real causes of these inflammatory conditions.
Autoimmune diseases, specifically, now affect 24 million people and include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and more. These are often addressed by powerful immune suppressing medication and not by addressing the cause. That’s like taking a lot of aspirin while you are standing on a tack. The treatment is not more aspirin or a strong immune suppressant, but removing the tack.
It you want to cool off inflammation in the body, you must find the source. Treat the fire, not the smoke. In medicine we are mostly taught to diagnose disease by symptoms, NOT by their underlying cause. Functional medicine, the emerging 21st paradigm of systems medicine teaches us to treat the cause, not only the symptoms, to ask the question WHY are you sick, not only WHAT disease do you have.
I recently participated in a group discussion with a conventional doctor, a rheumatologist, and patient with an autoimmune disease, and one of my patients who was cured of a complex autoimmune disease by addressing the causes. The focus of the other doctors, however, was on how to suppress the inflammation with medication, not finding and treating the cause. Functional medicine is a different way of thinking about disease that helps us understand and treat the real causes of inflammation instead of finding clever ways to shut it down. Medicine as it is practiced today is like taking the battery out of a smoke detector while a fire burns down your house!
Autoimmune conditions are connected by one central biochemical process: A runaway immune response also known as systemic inflammation that results in your body attacking its own tissues.
When my patient described how he cured his autoimmune disease by finding and eliminating the causes of inflammation in his diet and environment, it was dismissed as a “spontaneous remission.” In the face of a paradigm-shattering medical case, these docs were hardly curious and quickly dismissive, describing what was shared as anecdotal.
My patient on that panel, a hard-working 46-year old father of three was once so inflamed he could barely function. By treating the underlying causes of his inflammation he is now in vibrant good health, enjoying his life with his kids and fully capable of caring for them.
Stories like these (and the many others I have shared in my blogs, books, and on television) are not anecdotes but a giant compass pointing us in the direction we should be looking to find answers to our health problems.
In today’s blog, I will explain what autoimmunity is, how inflammation spirals out of control, describe some of the underlying causes for these fires in the body, and provide you with nine steps to cool the fires of inflammation and overcome conditions that range from allergies to arthritis and more.
Autoimmunity: What it is and How it Occurs
We are facing an epidemic of allergic (60 million people), asthmatic (30 million people) and autoimmune disorders (24 million people). Autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, celiac disease, thyroid disease, and the many other hard-to-classify syndromes in the 21st century. These are all autoimmune conditions, and at their root they are connected by one central biochemical process: A runaway immune response also known as systemic inflammation that results in your body attacking its own tissues.
Your immune system is your defense against invaders. It is your internal army and has to clearly distinguish friend from foe — to know you from other. Autoimmunity occurs when your immune system gets confused and your own tissues get caught in friendly cross-fire. Your body is fighting something — an infection, a toxin, an allergen, a food or the stress response — and somehow it redirects its hostile attack on your joints, your brain, your thyroid, your gut, your skin, or sometimes your whole body.
This immune confusion results from what is referred to as molecular mimicry. Conventional approaches don’t have a method for finding the insult causing the problem. Functional medicine provides a map to find out which molecule the cells are mimicking.
Interestingly, autoimmune disorders occur almost exclusively in developed countries. People in poor nations without modern amenities like running water, flush toilets, washing machines, and sterile backyards don’t get these diseases. If you grew up on a farm with lots of animals, you are also less likely to have any of these inflammatory disorders. Playing in the dirt, being dirty, and being exposed to bugs and infections trains your immune system to recognize what is foreign and what is “you.”
In this country, autoimmune diseases when taken all together are a huge health burden. They are the eighth leading cause of death among women, shortening the average patient’s lifespan by eight years. The annual health care cost for autoimmune diseases is $120 billion a year representing nearly twice the economic health care burden of cancer (about $ 70 billion a year). (i)
Unfortunately, many of the conventional treatments available can make you feel worse. Anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil, steroids, immune suppressants like methotrexate, and the new TNF-alpha blockers like Enbrel or Remicade can lead to intestinal bleeding, kidney failure, depression, psychosis, osteoporosis, muscle loss, and diabetes, not to mention overwhelming infection and cancer.(ii)
When used selectively these drugs can help people get their lives back. But they are not a long-term solution. They shouldn’t be the end of treatment, but a bridge to cool off inflammation while we treat the root cause of the disease.
There is another way to deal with autoimmune conditions. Let me share the same story I told the doctors on that panel.
Recovering from Autoimmunity: Addressing the Root Causes of Inflammation
My patient Sam ended up on a long misadventure through the medical system before he came to see me. For years he went from doctor to doctor getting all kinds of labels for his problems but no real help in treating them.
This hard-working, once healthy trade professional had suddenly developed a series of inflammatory conditions including chronic sinus and prostate infections. Many doctors gave him many antibiotics for these infections.
Shortly thereafter, he developed severe chest pains and went to the emergency room. While he was there, doctors found swollen lymph nodes and told him he had lymphoma, a form of cancer. For three weeks he lived in despair until the biopsy results came back. It turned out he didn’t have cancer but an autoimmune disease. Which autoimmune disease? The doctors weren’t quite sure …
He had many abnormal blood test results — like low white blood cell and platelet counts, high levels of auto-antibodies of all types (antibodies that attack our own tissues), high immunoglobulins (the foot soldiers of the immune system), and autoimmune thyroid disease. But doctors had a hard time putting their finger on what was wrong. They couldn’t label him.
Meanwhile, Sam developed metabolic syndrome and weight gain (pre-diabetes) as a result of the runaway inflammation in his body.
Here is a quote from one his specialist’s notes:
“Whether he has lupus or Sjogren’s syndrome is a bit unclear. Regardless, he merely needs observation and no therapeutic intervention at this time.”
This unfortunately is all to common. What exactly did they plan to observe, how bad he felt? Or would they just wait for him to get worse before intervening?
That’s when he came to me. Using a functional medicine approach, a new way of thinking about the underlying causes and imbalances in chronic disease, I began by asking Sam some simple questions. Then I went hunting for toxins, allergens, and infections — all common causes of inflammation — and found the real causes of his symptoms. He had taken so many antibiotics that altered his gut flora or bacteria and promoted yeast overgrowth. Fungus and yeast flourished in his body, growing between his toes, on his toenails, in his crotch, and scalp. He had Helicobacter pylori bacteria in his gut. He had a leaky gut and reacted to many foods, including dairy and gluten. He was exposed to toxins at his job and had high levels of mercury. And he had chronic sinus infections.
So we went to work cleaning house. I treated his yeast with anti-fungals and the H. pylori with antibiotics, got rid of his food allergies, fixed his gut, detoxified him from metals, and cleaned up his sinuses. Then I helped heal his immune system by supporting it with nutrients. I gave him zinc, fish oil, vitamin D, herbs, and probiotics, and put him on a clean, whole-foods, allergen free, anti-inflammatory diet.
At his next follow-up visit, I asked Sam how he was doing, expecting him to say that he felt a little better. However, his response surprised even me. He said he felt fine.
“What about the fatigue?” I asked.
“I have great energy.”
“What about the bloating and gas?”
“Nope.”
“What about the reflux?”
“Gone.”
“What about your sinuses and chronic phlegm?”
“All clear.”
“What about your memory and concentration problems?”
“All better.”
And he lost 15 pounds.
When his labs came in, they confirmed what he told me — they were all back to normal. His white cells increased and his immune markers calmed way down.
Sam’s results simply reflect the application of a new model of thinking about problems called Functional medicine — it’s a way to get to the root of health problems and treat the underlying causes of what ails you instead of suppressing symptoms with medications.
If you have an autoimmune disease, here is what you need to think about and do.
Nine Steps to Treating Autoimmune Disease
- Check for hidden infections — yeast, viruses, bacteria, Lyme, etc. — with the help of a doctor, and treat them.
- Check for hidden food allergens with IgG food testing or just try The UltraSimple Diet, which is designed to eliminate most food allergens.
- Get tested for celiac disease, which is a blood test that any doctor can do.
- Get checked for heavy metal toxicity. Mercury and other metals can cause autoimmunity.
- Fix your gut. For details, see my blog on irritable bowel syndrome.
- Use nutrients such as fish oil, vitamin C, vitamin D, and probiotics to help calm your immune response naturally.
- Exercise regularly — it’s a natural anti-inflammatory.
- Practice deep relaxation like yoga, deep breathing, biofeedback, or massage, because stress worsens the immune response.
- Tell your doctor about Functional medicine and encourage him or her to get trained — go to www.functionalmedicine.org for more information and to get a copy of the Textbook for Functional Medicine.
Give these steps a try — and see if you don’t start feeling less inflamed. As I said earlier, the answers are right in front of you. Treat the underlying causes of your illness and you will begin to experience vibrant health once more.
Now I’d like to hear from you…
Have you been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease?
How is your doctor treating you?
Have you been frustrated by the medical advice that you’ve been given?
What steps have you taken to get to the root of the problem, and what have your results been?
Please leave your thoughts by adding a comment below.
References
(i) Nakazawa, D. (2008). The Autoimmune Epidemic. Simon & Schuster. New York.
(ii) Siegel, C.A., Marden, S.M., Persing, S.M., et al. (2009). Risk of lymphoma associated with combination anti-tumor necrosis factor and immunomodulator therapy for the treatment of Crohn’s disease: a meta-analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 7(8): 874-81.
I’ve quite agree that the important thing is to find the root cause of any illness instead of treating the symptoms. I had a recent bout with uveitis, which was frightening; I was given large doses of steroids (60 mg day) which made me crazy but I was told if I didn’t take them, I’d go blind in that eye. Very unnerving. Idiopathic. Scary. Recently have been taking 500 mg niacin to treat borderline high chol and after 2 months, started breaking out in HORRIBLE hives. Have never been allergic to anything, and all of the sudden a stalk of celery makes my chest hurt and my body break out in whelts. I was about to go to an allergist when I thought of the niacin. There’s nothing I can find online that says anything about that side effect, but now that I don’t take it, there have been no more episodes. My doctor is understanding but I have found no one in the medical profession that is thinking about the root of illness. You’ve got to be very proactive, and LUCKY> and you need to read as much as possible! Sad.
I have dealt with “gut” issues pretty much as far back as I can remember. I was told from about age 20 that I had IBS. In 2005 I was dianosed with crohn’s disease with disease in my colon. I have been on every single medication to include Remicade, Humira and Cimzia and recently had resection surgery 8 months ago only for the disease to be flaring again! I am at my wits end! I have tried changing my diet as I know that dairy bothers me if I consume more than just a little, sugar has always been an issue (carbs!) but I have crohn’s with constipation motility issues with alternating diarrhea so I am not the A-typical crohn’s patient which makes it more challenging.
I don’t know where to turn at this point – my doctors are going to try me on Cimzia again but I know it will not work! Surgery obviously didn’t work. Even if they remove my colon since I have crohn’s I feel it will most likely take over in my small bowel, etc. so what do I do???
Dear Mark,
my father is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, the doctors are tryingall sorts of heavy medication but nothing seems to help.
Do you have any good results, treating MS? If yes, please give your recommendations! Would love to see my father recovering
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and the constellation of symptoms your father is suffering from represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I have been using an anti inflammatory diet to treat my MS. I’ve been on it since December and my last MRI showed no new lesions on my brain and only one new one on my C spine since my previous MRI in November. I feel great, I’ve lost 15 lbs and my balance and energy has improved as well. No grains, no sugar, no dairy, no processed foods.
Please go to this site and see if this can help your father. There is hope. http://www.terrywahls.com/
Schpinkle
I’ve always been relatively health-conscious and have eaten a decent diet and kept up a fairly good level of exercise. Several years ago, on the heels of a few very stressful years, I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. When I asked the doc if diet or stress were contributing factors, he said “no, its genetic. You’ll might have periods of remission, but you’ll likely have to take this medication for the rest of your life.” Fortunately, I didn’t believe him and went on my own search. Eventually discovered that I’m hypothyroid (Hashimoto’s) and started connecting it with various other autoimmune symptoms and conditions. I put myself on an anti-inflammatory diet (thanks to Mark Hyman), and got a doctor to prescribe bio-identical thyroid hormone. Within a matter of weeks the UC symptoms disappeared, I lost my mid-life weight gain, and felt 20 years younger. Two years later, I had another colonoscopy just to validate that there are no signs of bowel disease. I have lately been feeling the thyroid symptoms getting worse, though, and am concerned that I may be developing lung problems. This has led me to start researching additional, deeper causes of the autoimmune response, since the lifestyle changes themselves don’t seem to be getting to the root of things. Have been reading about the TH1 and TH2 aspects of the immune response process and wondering if something there is out of balance. Would appreciate any insights into how I can learn more about this, what tests to have done, etc.
On August 3rd I was outside all day at a horse show and it was HOT..by 3:30 pm my shoulders, elbows, wrist and hands began to ache really badly and by 7pm it was unbearable. I compared the ache to my kidney stone I had. He has tested me but he feels it could be Lupus with the discoloring I have on my face. This triggered a memory of when I was 14 I had this same thing in my legs but 30 years ago the Docs just looked at you like you were crazy. Never had an issue again until a few days ago. Can it lay dormant that long? I’m taking a 6 day predisone pack just to get me out of pain. Should have blood work back Friday or Monday. Any suggestions? Thank you
After retirement-mandatory at age 60 commercial pilot-he began exhibiting signs of what was thought to be depression. He was diagnosed and treated with Lexipro. Over the years the ‘depression’ appeared to be channging. At age 66 he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Treated with Aricept for 8 months…the disease continued to be aggressive. The dr’s advice was to participate in a ‘double blind’ clinical trial. The drug’s intention was to destroy the amyloid placque in the brain. He was also a ‘carrier’ of the APO-E4 gene…which can contribute to having ALZ. After 2 infusions of the clinical drug he suffered from severe edema of the brain. Steroid dosing to reduce the edema. After 6 months the swelling subsided. In May he was diagnosed with ALS. He has a vast amount of muscle wasting and has been given 6 months to a year to live. He cannot speak and has great difficulty swallowing. I do not want to lose my husband to this dreadful disease and am seeking alternative/Functional Medical advise and treatment.
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I am a 54 year old woman who has suffered through about 20 years of chronic urinary tract infections, sinus infections, poly cystic ovarian disease and chronic fatigue. I believe that through all the years of heavy anabiotic use, I developed yeast infection in my intestinal tract. I was completely miserable with the extreme fatigue and body aches along with debilitating depression. When I felt that I had hit bottom, after a hospital stay to treat depression and anxiety, I found yoga. Yoga turned my life around and helped me to heal myself for the most part. For the past 14 years I have been free of the depression and anxiety and no more uti’s or sinus infections, but I believe that my intestinal tract is still infected by yeast. I also deal with allergies and take Imitrex for migraines, which I get 1 to 2 times per week.
I have been to doctors who have treated the symptoms, but none have taken my claims of intestinal yeast infection seriously. There is rarely a day that passes without stomach problems ranging from discomfort to pain. My life has improved so much in so many ways but I would like to find treatment for my intestinal problems, the allergies and migraines.
I recently tried treating (what I think is) a yeast problem, because I haven’t been able to get a Dr. on board with me for an actual diagnosis. I did convince my Dr. to perscribe a two week course of an anti-fungal, at the same time implementing the yeast free diet. I became very sick after five days of the anti-fungal. Flu-like symptoms. I had read to stop taking the anti-fungal if I became sick — this was a sign that I had a extremely large quantity of yeast — and to let my body rest for awhile and then re-start the medication. I did not re-start the medication for two reasons. 1) I really felt very bad days 5, 6 and 7 after taking the medication. So much so that I went to bed and didn’t raise my head much during that time. 2) I also read somewhere that you need to be monitored while taking this medication because of the effects of the yeast die-off and how it can attack your organs. So I became concerned and have been reluctant to re-start the program. I will tell you that I felt much better for a solid two months after trying this, but am off the yeast free diet and just am afraid to try this medication again. My self-diagnosis began due to having difficulty eating foods and drinking an occassional glass of wine that had never bothered me before. My throat would feel like it was closing up after eating/drinking these particular foods. After an allergy test I began to question what was really going on with my body. I was allergic to 13 different foods and highly allergic to molds. The whelps on my arm from the mold injections were there for over two weeks and left bruises on my arms for over two months. My allergist just looked at me and told me to find a nutritionist and handed me the yeast free diet information and said good-luck. This led to a lot of research on my part. Over this time period, I have realized that my chronic sinus infections, which were always dealt with antibiotics over a 16 year period (4 or 5 a year) probably began my downfall. I have lots of other symptoms, but have no idea how to proceed anymore. There is so much information out there that it is confusing and unless you find the “functional medicine” Dr….which I have not…..it’s hard to go this route alone. So many things need to be done and I need a plan of action. Your article is seems “spot-on” to me and I can only hope that other Drs. wil become enlightened.
I have had many infections, my ears, teeth, sinus, etc. My Neurologist is excellent and told me to be tested for an immune system problem. I now go for infusions every other month because of an IGGproblem. Things are much better. I know I have an allergy to rye and barley. I still have problems with depression and weight problems. I think you are ahead of your time with talking about it and I would love to hear more details.
I was reciently told that I need a hip replacement because of severe arthritis. Me, I have always exercised and I teach yoga. My dad his brother my sister and brother all have inflamation bad enough to interfere with their lives. I am in denial but my hip really hurts. Is surgery the only answer? I have only seen a very small percentage of people get better. I am only 52. Help
I wish more doctors would recognize the devastating effects of inflammation. Thanks Dr. Hyman for the information.
a href=”http://frankfortkychiropractor.com/” target=”_blank”>Frankfort Ky chiropractor
I have to agree with most of the article about healing from the root cause–but be advised that it takes a combined effort to kick some of these diseases. There is no instant fix.
I am 25 and I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis (just like about an 1/8th of my family) over 5 years ago and also tested positive for Celiac (gluten intolerance) along with many food sensitivities. As such, I eat gluten free and make most of my meals at home from whole grains, limit my meat intake, eat organic veggies and dairy, and overall have an active and healthy lifestyle. However, I also take DMARD’s like Methotrexate and Cimzia, as well as the double-edged-sword prednisone. With the combination of healthy lifestyle AND the medications, I normally live a happy flare-free life. Neither the diet alone, nor just medications, could keep my conditions at bay. I still struggle to find the balance between medications and lifestyle changes to manage my disease (especially weight gain and mood alterations from steroids).
The moral of this story is that it is important to be aware of all your options, and to seek out and try new therapies if one is not working. I have a list of doctors and alternative therapists (including an acupuncturist/herbalist and a chiropractor) that work with me to find the best–if not most conventional–form of treatment.
If you have an immune disorder, definitely get checked for allergies as it can save you lots of pain and suffering. You may have to change your habits, but it is well worth it!
Last summer, age 82,5 and feeling like 40, I said goodbye to my son and his family who had been visiting for 10 days, did 3 washes, hung them out and took them down, and woke up the next morning to find that my upper arms were weak and achy (not a pain, an ache). I assumed it was the previous day’s work and the result of having slept on the sofa for those 10 nights.
After two weeks and a massage by the physiotherapist at the gym I go to, I still couldn’t lift anything with one hand or hook my bra behind my back. The g.p. I see once every five or six years immediately knew it was polymyaglia, an autoimmune illness which affects European women over 50, he said. This usually takes 1 or 2 years to heal itself, and he recommended a steroid (can’t remember what it was called, because I refused to take it). The internist he sent me to also knew immediately what the problem was and immediately suggested the same steroid.
Not for me, thanks. I decided to trust my body to heal itself. I don’t eat meat, eat fish every day, lots of salads (but less fruit), no alcohol, no cigarettes. I workout at the gym for 45 min twice a week and do my own shopping and house cleaning. Aside from 2 new knees and a gall bladder operation about 40 years ago, I am in perfect health: heart, lungs, iron levels, all tested before the knee operations and all perfect. The website RealAge tells me I’m 7 years younger than 83.
Little by little, I got more strength in my arms and one morning I woke up to find I was completely well. What was supposed to last 1 or 2 years had lasted exactly 13 weeks – three months, and has not come back.
The point of this story is that I trusted my body and didn’t leap for the chemicals. (I did take 3 Advils a day for a few days but developed a bloody nose, so I gave that up.) I sent a letter to my g.p. to tell him all this and suggested he not prescribe steroids before his patients have a chance to get well naturally. He might check on what they eat, recommend exercise, tell them to try to stop smoking, drinking and eating meat, and start cleaning up their insides.
I’m going to live to be 95, maybe more. I’ve got a lot of plans for the next 10 or 15 years.
Thank you for your site and recipes. I wish more medical professionals were of your mind set. I have been chronically ill for 8 years. At 33 my family and I were planning my obituary this past winter. I have undiagnosed abdominal pain that led to my gallbladder being removed. Now I have fatty liver disease and am looking at an eventual transplant if I live that long. I have gained 150 pounds in one year despite the fact I find it difficult to swallow and often can’t keep food down and don’t eat a lot. I have to ride a mobility scooter or use a cane and use narcotics to deal with pain control. I have developed seizures and bleeding and noone can tell me what is wrong. I do a lot of my own research as I am desperate so have just started to eat no gluten. When my husband and I have paid off my previous treatments (acupunture, neuraltherapy…) we are going to have me tested for metals at a private clinic. My Doctors will not agree to test me for Lyme, hormone levels or metal levels as they don’t see the need and say the tests are expensive. They are nice people, the system is just lacking.
Hi Dr. Hyman I am very glad to discover that there are some open minded professionals out there, but I have to say they are a rare species and are really hard to find. My name is Jon and I pretty much have being through a path very similar to Sam, but in my case I didn’t find an open minded Doctor, therefore my ordeal has been very stressful, and I was obliged to become very proactive. I learned how to use the system to have the lab work needed and also for diagnosis, but I would never subject my self to any of their iatrogenic treatments.
In my case I was lucky that my nutricionist Dr. Luepnitz who is a very smart guy, and he is leading in all what’s related to food allergies, helped me to discover that I was gluten intolerant (not celiac though)
but by the time I realized that I already had developed an autoimmune condition, looks like it’s Lupus, and pernicious anemia, but I really think that once you develop an autoimmune condition the label doesn’t matter, it is just for the Doctors, but I really think that an autoimmune condition can shift and redirect it self to attack different organs, therefore autoimmune condition is just one!!
As soon as I realized what was wrong with me I made a huge change in my life style, stopped eating gluten (of course), started to exercise, changed my diet, I started practicing kundalini yoga, I did a colon cleansing, blood, liver and kidney cleansing, very soon I started to improve, and over time I became very good at running so I decided to challenge my self with a marathon, and this proved to be a huge mistake because when you are going through an autoimmune condition you have to be very careful with stress, and for your body stress means any kind of stress, physical( over exercising, over eating, eating the wrong foods etc) Mental or psychological stress( strong emotions of any kind, this can be related to your job,your private life)
I learned through the hard way that it takes a long time to really heal from an autoimmune condition even if you made all the changes you think are needed, improving doesn’t mean you are out of the woods, if you over do it, or you relax on the way you eat because you are feeling better it will come back to hunt you sooner or latter, because your autoimmune system is very jumpy, and it is waiting for whatever pretext
to relaunch an attack on your body and it would be even worse than before. This happened to me twice already, so this last time I understood the message, and did something very radicalbecause this time I started to have an awful flare up which involved my kidneys, my heart, my lungs, my joints etc etc. Dr Luepnitz was convinced that it was due to stress, and he was right but I had to redefine the meaning of stress.
This is what I did: I went for a water fast for a week on my own, then 3 more days on juice fasting, I did that to clean my self from all the autoimmune complexes, and toxins that I may had stored in my organs and joints, then I went for a total vegan diet, 80% raw, 20% some cooked legumes, got rid of all possible food allergens like soy and corn (which I was eating before)dairy (which I allowed my self occasionally) and also got rid of all the high glicemic foods like refined grains (quinua, millet)and some fruits like watermelon and so on.
At last i think I hit bottom and I am up for the rebound, but it’s been quite a journey where you feel very lonely and where you have to do lots of research your self. I found very helpful to read books of people the went through the same or similar stuff. And it shouldn’t be like that, I am very pissed at the really unuseful medical establishment,totally profit oriented, which has a mechanical,and schizophrenic conception of the body rather than looking at it as a very complex, sophisticated and dinamic organism where all it’s systems interact to keep us alive and healthy.
I am also pissed at the food industry that along with the pharmaceutical industry are orchestrated, one to make you sick and the other to make you a drug addict for the rest of your life!!!!
I really hope there are some forces of change out there because we need a different paradigm. This system is making us sick and there is not heath care reform capable of absorbing such ammount of ever increasing
sick people!!
Regards Doctor, it is good to know that there are professionals like you who really care for their patients. Jon
Hi Dr. Hyman,
Thank you so much for getting the word out to people on all of this. I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1993 (at the age of 33). Negative MRI scans, but 2 neurologists told me I had it (probable MS because of the negative scan). My symptoms – gait disturbance, walked with a cane, bumped into walls, dragged one leg, slurred speech, drooling, nystagmus, intention tremor, weakness, and EXTREME fatigue. I also was depressed and had been most of my life. Raising 7 kids and exhausted. The doctor’s answer? One of the ABC drugs…and narcolepsy medication to help with the fatigue (which was unbelievable – talking at times was a major effort). I asked for the inserts so I could read the potential side effects on each on – and decided I wouldn’t take any of them. I was in very very bad physical shape – I remember talking with friends about how being in our 30s me might have another 40-50 years to live…and I thought I can’t imagine going on for another 4-5 weeks, let alone 40-50 years.
THEN!!! After reading Fit for Life I went on a 1-day fruit fast to try to make a move toward cleaning up my diet in hopes of losing weight (I was at 240 pounds). By 2 o’clock the first day I couldn’t believe that I felt better- I had energy, a sense of hope, the headache and stomach pain I had constantly, my whole life, were gone and I didn’t need my afternoon nap! The next morning I woke up hungry and had a bagel and suddenly felt terrible…headache, stomachache, depressed and thought I just want to go back to bed…it was the beginning of my healing as I realized that it was the bagel that made me feel sick and not eating it made me feel better. I went on through trial and error to discover allergies to wheat, corn and oats. I thought I had personally discovered the connection between food allergy and illness and depression! I told my doctor how incredible I felt and he said “Well, that’s nice, but lets talk about things I can document, like your blood tests.” I had expected him to be excited and want to learn how to help his other patients. At the end he said he was happy for me, but he was on a treadmill and had been trained in a certain way and really didn’t have the time to learn something new, like treating people with their diets.
I went onto find books like Psychonutrition by Carlton Fredericks and the writings of Theron Randolph and was shocked to find that the answers to the suffering I had endured for decades had been in prints for years! (And that I wasn’t the first to make this connection!).
My healing was incredible. I lost weight, gained energy like crazy – instead of taking my kids to the pool and sitting exhausted in a beach chair watching them I was in the water with them – and riding my bike and going for walks and finally living life! The MS symptoms? All gone except for rare episodes of facial numbness or double vision. My neurologists answer? I guess you have MS but MS doesn’t have you.
I am so grateful for you and your books and for getting this message out. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! and God bless you!
My current diagnosi are undifferentiated autoimmune disorder (probably Lupus), Ehlers-Danlos disease, and suporative hydradenitis. The symptoms all occured at the same time when I turned 31, My white blood cell count averages 17,000, but has been as high as 21,000. An oncologist couldn’t find any reason my body was making so many white blood cells, but did notice that it seemed my body would run out of antibodies and just send out empty white blood cells for awhile. As well, my neutrophil counts are too high. I have probably had nearly every possible rash, and always treated with hydrocortisone or prednisone. I have become so sun sensitive, that I spend almost no time outside, or I will have a rash within 15 minutes. I seem to have no resistance to staph, and have repeated infections, usually treated with antibiotics. An infectious diseases doctor suggested using a 10% tea tree oil body wash for my suporative hydradenitis, which actually helped by about 90% within 2 weeks, and has continued to keep it mostly under control. My dermatologist, who had been treating me for this for 3 years without any relief, scoffed at the idea of tea tree oil and actually told me to stop using it because I could develop an allergic reaction to it. I also have chronic diarrhea, with no apparent cause. Two allergy tests and two colonoscopies have revealed nothing. With daily Immodium AD, it is controlled enough so that I don’t usually have debilitating cramping and can leave the house most days, but I still have frequent diarrhea. I also have bipolar disorder, which causes some complications with odd reactions to medications. 2 years ago I also started having debilitating nerve pain down both sides of my legs (ciatica?). It comes and goes now, but because of it I now have a handicapped parking plaque. I have always been overweight, but with all the medications I’ve been on, its gotten out of control. I went from 280 lbs in 1998 to 380 lbs in 2005. With a very strict diet, I have been able to lose about 50 lbs in the past year. Its very frustrating, because with the inflamation and chronic diarrhea, regular excersize is difficult. I am now using a CPAP machine to sleep, which has helped give me back some of my energy and keep me from falling asleep all the time. I see the top rheumatolgist at John Hopkins in Baltimore, but she only treats my symptoms and tells me to keep trying to lose weight or have bariatric surgery. Fortunately my blood pressure and cholestorol are good, and I’m not diabetic. I take several medications a day to keep the pain to a minimal. I work part-time for myself, but even that is sporatic, between joint pain, diarrhea and frequent headaches or cloudy headedness (probably from the bipolar meds).
One thing that really frustrates me is that with all my doctors, they don’t work together to treat me. They only treat the symptoms for their area of practice and no one treats all of me. In the mean time, I’m not really getting better. I think there were a few years during early treatment that things subsided, but now it takes more medication and I am sick more often. I do everything I can to live a stress free life, and meditate often for relaxation. I’m also frustrated because most of the foods I am on for my diet, which is finally working continuously, may be causing my symptoms to be worse. So I’m caught in this cycle, trying to lose weight to make my symptoms better, while what I do to lose weight makes them worse.
Any feed back would be greatly appreciated. My therapist recommended this site and it seems to have good information.
Rebecca Robinson
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Have you ever made the connection with your patients between dental work like root canals and extracted teeth and immune system malfunction? I have had interstitial cystitis for 1 1/2 years. During that time, I have taken a detox supplement that breaks down biofilm for 8 months and my doctor has found and detoxed lyme bacteria, lead, aluminum, mercury, beryllium, parasites and viruses. I am on a very clean diet (and I am doing the Clean program now), I have elminated enviromental toxins, as well as toxins from personal care products, but I still have yeast and low levels of bacteria in my bladder and my immune system seems to be unable to beat these things back (plus, I have pain – only in my bladder). That is when my integrative MD suggested a potential dental connection. I finally had a tooth that has been bothering me for years removed and it turns out one of the roots was fractured and there was an abscess (it could not be detected on an x ray). I had biomeridian dental mapping and it turns out that all of my wisdom teeth cavitations contain bacteria and my three root canal teeth are leaking bacteria. I am hoping that the dental stuff is the missing piece and that once I clean that up, my body will be able to finally get back in balance.
Meg – I am very interested in what you are doing/have already done and where you are finding docs to help you with this. Please, if you get my message, reply so that maybe I too can get some help. Thank you so much!
Just came across Dr. Hyman’s work. Seeking help for autoimmune disease (CIDP) diagnosis over 9 yrs. Require IvIG infusions in addition to p.o. med to prevent rejection. Interested in research for solution to this inflammatory disease. I had to leave the nursing job I loved due to continual illness and s/e from treatment regimen. I would love to be able to be fully functional for my family and ultimately have a career again. Aas things are currently, I can manage to take care of myself and minimal home concerns. Finding concentration and focus are off now, yet not at onset to 6-7 yrs into the process. Helping others brings me great joy and my joy is diminishing for it seems my purpose has been extinguished.
What about Fibromyalgia? I’m on Facebook with so many friends who came to my Facebook site because they saw the word Fibromyalgia. We all seem to have the same symptoms. Where do we go for help?
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I also am a 45 yo nurse and had to leave the job that gave me so much joy. My diagnosis began as Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, then Polymyalgia Rheumatica, to Palendromic Rheumatism. I have been on Prednisone po every other day for 3 years. Lab tests have been negative, Rh, ANA, etc. The only consistent lab abnormality has been an abnormally high sed rate. The steroids have been the only reason that I am able to move and put one foot in front of the other at times. However, the side effects are now causing problems. Vit. D levels are low and K levels are now low as well. I sleep for days (and nights) at a time and am still fatigued. Am now experiencing shortness of breath and arrhythmias. The depression has worsened due to not being able to help others, be productive and useful and make use of the training that I worked so hard for. Due to having no health insurance I have only seen the GP physician that I used to work for. Now, due to the side effects becoming more severe, he is insistent that I see a Rheumatologist. I am actually excited that other tests may be done and I may come to know something more definitive and my hopes are up that I may be able to return to nursing one day. Your article has also given me information to begin researching that has never been mentioned by anyone else! Thank You!
I have a series of food sensitivities and chemical sensitivities that I can control by avoiding all those foods and chemicals, but I’ve recently started feeling my body breaking down again. I went to see my general practitioner, who specializes in allergies, and I told him that I didn’t want to treat symptoms, I wanted help getting to the root of the problem. He told me that conventional medicine couldn’t help me, and advised I see a Medical Intuitive to figure out why I was mentally causing my body to break down like this. I was dumbfounded.
What you’re saying is right on target with what I think I need to be doing, but I don’t know how to find a doctor who will help me get there. I already do a number of the steps you mentioned, but I need a doctor who will test for these gut issues and help me treat the root cause. But my question is, how do I find a doctor in my area?
Kendra,
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Recently found out I have Celiac ( lucky enough to inherit two copies of the gene most closely associated with the dz- dq8 I think). Have been gluten free for a year and fixed severe low iron and vit B issue but am still feeling so tired. Another visit to doctor and more tests. Results show my body is attacking my thyroid and my Hg1Ac is 6.2 with an average blood glucose reading of 131. I am a 42 y/o female who is very active and not overwt ( BMI 23) Will an anti-inflammatory diet help with the diabetes? Will it help with the thyroid? ( tpo 495) Can you recommend any doctors in functional medicine on the west coast- does a naturopath accomplish the same thing? i.e. same mind set and approach to healing. I look forward to your response.
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Oh, also have low vit D despite taking supplements and eating dairy rich diet. this has been going on for over a year now- What else are we missing here?
When I read the article on the little 10 year old, tears came to my eyes. I am 58 years old and for 10 years now I have been suffering with most of the same symptoms and getting the same treatments. The chemotherapy only made me worse. I have lost my gallbladder, my appendix and my thyroid. They told me I would get better. I steadily got worse….was diagnosed with lupus, sjogrens, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease and told there secondary connective tissue disorders which they were not able to determine and didn’t know what to do for it.
I finally started doing reading and studying on my own. I changed my diet, discontinued much of the tons of medications they had me on and went cold turkey on my own. I am doing somewhat better, but I know there has to be more that I can do. Doctors here in Idaho won’t even consider the natural way of trying to find the underlying causes of anything and I am so tired of being a human guinea pig.
I have eased some of the swelling, bloating and vomiting. But I still suffer with severe chest pain (which has been diagnosed as from an unknown origin), nausea, severe fatigue, cognitive issues, abdominal issues, inability to sleep, severe pain throughout my entire body and so on and so on. I don’t smoke or drink. I eat mostly living foods and have within the last couple of months eliminated wheat and gluten from my diet as I was told I had celiac disease.
Do you know anybody near Idaho that is part of your system? I am so sick and tired of being sick and tired. If not for my faith and the strength I gain from it, I would have given in a long time ago. I take no medications except my synthroid not even for pain.
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
My daughter was diagnosed 10 yrs ago with JRA and assoc. uveitis. She has also suffered from eczema/psoriasis since 3 mo. old. She’s 14 1/2 now. I remember thinking it was my breast milk when she was and infant. At about 2 I tried all rice products which helped her skin alot though not totally. Then at 4, the JRA/uveitis. Her eyes have always been the main problem, the dr’s say “her arthritis is in her eyes” as her joints are minimally affected. We’ve seen lots of drs’, the top specialists on both coasts, all of whom go right to the drug regimen. I always asked, can’t we try and find the cause? No answer, just try this newest drug. All had a negative effect on her physically and never helped her eyes. I try to educate her and cook healty and encourage excersise. She’s is doing better now than in a long time and we wonder if she is “growing out of it”? Her dr’s think it is possible. She’s had cataract surgery in both eyes in the last 2 yrs due to mega prednisone eye drops over the yrs. Her eye disease seems to have quieted and she’s only on 1 drop a day ea. eye as well as a glaucoma drop sincer her pressure has been high for a yr. or so. So glad I found Dr. Hyman and his ideas. I will be following his news etc. regularly. I pray all sufferers will find relief!!
I was diagnosed with crohn’s disease 5 years ago and prior to this was told I have IBS for over 20 years. I have been on every medication to include prednisone currently as well as Humira injections once a week and miralax nightly as well as my mulit-vitamin, calcium citrate, probiotic and aloe vera. I suffer on a daily basis from constipation, bloating, gas as well as pain in my abdomen. I also have been told I have a “lazy bowel” which causes a lot of pain! My current doctor took biopsies on my last colonoscopy and says that I do not have an intolerance for gluten, have been tested for lactose intolerance which came up negative as well. I just need some relief and my life back!
Thank you, Lindsay, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hello Dr. Hyman:
I am a systems trainer and coach in the fields of education, workforce and youth development, hence I love what I am seeing on your site.
Many years ago when I was in my mid-20s, I had multiple symptoms, but particularly an irritable bowel and chronic, but not severe system wide pain. I was treated for too much yeast by a doctor similar to you. Worked great for many years. I practice dyoga, meditation, chiropractor, some massage. Less of all of these now. $$$$s
Now at 50, I have been labeled with Rhuematoid Arthritis (since 39 or so – early perimenopause-now menopausal for 5 years — miss that estrogen- this is when the symptoms all increased) fibromalysia, fatigue, high cholestoral (233), an irregular EKG amd slight issue with heart valve, glucose intolerance (108), numbing. I have had chronic anxiety and melancholy since I was 6 (clearly hereditary from family research). My memory is horrible, fuzzy head, can’t remember simple words, etc.
My teeth are full of old fillings and 2 have holes that need treatment (my fault very afraid of dental work — causes much pain will take care of).
Motrin does help the swelling and hence pain at 1200 a day
Clomazapan, Cymbalta, and Nuvigil (which really does help the fatigue) have made quite a difference in the depression and anxiety, but I am in serious trouble if I forget any of these — even one day. And while diminished the symptoms are still there — and grow stronger of course with stress.
Methotrexate and other RA drugs worked to start but now I see very little result even with Methotrexate and a higher level of chemo intravein – Ritoxin — actually my symptoms are much worse including numbing in feet, hands and one ear lobe (go figure).. Although a memory foam top on bed is helping some. I have to take antibotics a lot for I catch stuff that ends up as infections.
Now with a statin, Livalo, I am not allowed to take the Nuvigil — and after just two days, my RA muscle pain and anxiety has increased significantly. I am stopping the statin and taking an asprin daily.
Not one of my doctors RA, Reg doc or Psych doc is looking at my full systemic condition.
I have lost 20 lbs in the last year and my husband almost 60 mostly from the south beach regiment. I take a multi vitamin and have had success with some alternative vitamins from standard process – catalyn,symplex F, rumaplex but am not taking those currently. I am starting flaxseed for Omegas and we eat a lot of veggies and fish. Berries, little citrus, nuts, etc. want to grow organic garden. More meditation especially breathing exercises is helping.
I am going to cut out all wheat and carbs- gluten – sugar for at least 3 weeks to see outcomes and start walking. I have resigned from stress filled work position and will look for simplier work (I am a workaholic). Will get your newsletter and will be coached by someone already using your methods. Will look for doc in area.. How do I find a dentist who gets it?
Which books should I look at — what are my first steps? How do I help my docs talk to each other (they will NOT conference — I have tried even offered to pay – ridiculous – now I am on my way to a cardiologist in two weeks).
How do I start simply so I don’t get overwhelmed and fall back into unproductive behavior that is comfortable ( bread, no exercise, sugar, salt,caffeine, etc)?
Could I come see you if you deem acceptable? insurance cover anything?
My goals — I have a 13 year old. I want to spend a long time with him, hubby and friends and live more in the moment — be more of who I am with healthy nutrition and fitness daily! Not to mention less anxiety, depression, pain — more calm and peace filled, clearer functioning life.
Thanks for your time,
Betsy Draper
Thank you, Betsy, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
HI,
I am a 55 year old women. Who has been ill since 1998 was diagonised with fifth disease {mild childhood illness} did not recover was sent to immunoligist who told me my antibody level was depleted. I then developed a light sensitivity to sun and florecent lighting. Rashing itching just plain awful imflamation. Was put on Hydrocloquine I am sick of taking but has helped. Diagonised with a vitiam d defecincy, then now I have celiacs, an psorasis. I have always had perfect skin. My stress level in my life is extreme. I lost my parents at the age of 16, which after lead to allergy to cold weather giving me huge hives. That cleared up. Then a lot of issues with children and a very sick husband for years. Who died 6 years. Recently lost my son a year ago. Right now I can barley move. I am exhausted. sick of taking drugs. I am on lipitor, but cholestrol is improving snice I have lost 50 pounds. I take the hydrocloroquine, a small dose of an atidepressesent which i went on for pms years ago. I take aderall for attention issues. Which are pretty bad and this has helped. So would appreciate any direction for help what to say to my doctors or a local doctor you can recommend. I want to be helped. Thankyou
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hi Dr. Hyman,
I was diagnosed with Graves’ Disease over four years ago and have been treated by an Endocrinologist with anti-thyroid medication upon my refusal of Radioactive Iodine or surgical removal of the thyroid. I went into remission for a year and had another flare up. I had a pseudo-remission again for about six months and have been on methimazole again for 8 months.
I find a lot of information on hypothyroidism but little to no useful information on hyperthyroidism since the most common treatment almost always results in hypothyroidism. I am determined to keep my body whole since the thyroid is merely the victim, not the culprit, despite the humiliation of what I consider a large goiter and the resulting insecurity that has crept into my identity, further exacerbating my stress levels and perpetuating the cycle of dis-ease.
I am also a student at The Institute for Integrative Nutrition and learned about Functional Medicine through your lecture. The only functional medicine doctor near me is not taking new patients. I feel like I’m on my own in this with few resources for information on unconventional treatment that may help me to resolve active Graves’ and get off medication. My endocrinologist is only a prescribing machine and has not supported me in any other way.
Could you recommend any resources for someone like me? I’ve been researching on and off for the past four and a half years and have not come up with much. I feel like I am responsible for taking charge of my own health but at the same time have a very small and hard to find support network, mostly of people who have had total thyroidectomies or RAI and regret it…
Still searching but full of hope.
Sincerely,
Katherine Wiranowski
Thank you, Katherine, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
hi i read the artical and i thought it was kinnda of ironic that sam who you talked about had h-pylori ,i also was treated for this and my obgyn rechecked me becaue i have been really a function ill person she found that my iron level was @9 i aso been treated with antibotics for h-pylori and one gave me ayeast infection in my mouth.that really hurt my toung felt like it waqs on fire ..in the last 2 years i have been taking z-packs ect. for sinus noting works…I also take a stomach pill cause every thing i eat seams to sit in my stomach for hours and i get acid indigestion bad,.. i was wondering do you think i have some kind of auto immune disorder..i can wake up feeling fine and hours later i feel like iam going to die. my heart will pound for no reason or if im in the heat it will start pounding as if i over did my self ..I have been treated for the iron .with iron transfusion.. the dr ordered more when i was only getting 4 i wound up getting 7 of them they said someting on the line oh you are not absorbing it all??? i wonder why .when i was younger i had toge a blood trans fusion they said at that time i had parnishis anima ..does that ever go a way i feel like im left in the dark room and noone is giving me answers ..i just want to feel better all day not just part of the day or everyother day
Thank you for your message, Nicol, and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I am 64yrs old and in the last 2yrs have been dignosed with interstitial cystitis which is making my life a misery. oral medications made me ill and i am now having bladder installations with no effect. At 28yrs old i had the occipital nerves severed for serious migraines cant beleive i allowed that to happen. In my early thirties attended allergy clinic and had many allergies but cannot remember much about it. At 35yrs old diagnosed with lupus. At 55yrs old diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome but no longer have any symptoms. Have just purchased 5 forces off wellness CDs and it feels like a revalation to me especially around inflammation. I had gone to my GP to ask if it could be connected to my lupus but she has rejected this. I would love to have blood tests taken but how can i do this witout permission from GP. I feel really frustrated and sad as i truly beleive even before i listened to CDs that my IC in some way was connected to my previous conditiona which were inflammatory. I want my life back and would welcome any advice. Thank you–Violet
Thank you for your message, Violet, and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
This summer, I broke out in a rash on my face resembling a butterfly rash. I went to see a rhumatologist and was told it was possibily lupus, was put on plaquenil but that didn’t help the rash. I finally went to see a dermatologist and he told me it was not a lupus rash but rosacea. The rash is completely gone so now I have been diagnosed with Sjogrens disease. I have a lot of yeast infections and vaginal bacteria infections but other than this I feel good. I exercise and play softball. I was told to stay out of the sun but the sun does not bother me at all. I am not on any medications but I go see my rhumatologist every three months because my blood work is not normal. I don’t know what to think and when I try to ask questions I really dont get any answers.
Thank you, Nedra, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Dr. Hyman,
You’ve already helped me tremendously. I watched you on public TV for the first time. I’ve been suffering from sever muscle pain and fatigue for many many years and been diagnosed with Fibromialsia, chronic fatigue and on and on and have been miserable for over 20 years. You suggested taking Potassium, which cured my pain pretty much entirely. You also recommended checking my Thyroid level and I did. Sure enough I have Hypothyroidism and am now taking supplements. Thank you for doing that and for you forum here and on Public TV.
I do have a problem that I hope you can advise me on. I’ve been suffering from chronic lungs problems and asthma and allergies. I have to use inhalers on a daily basis and I always have problems breathing through my nose. I’m sick of living my life with inhalers and not being able to breath. I also have started to snore at night due to my difficulty breathing. Can you help me please?
I wish more doctors realized that there is more to medicine than to treating the symptoms.
Thank you again for helping people like me.
Thank you, Sheila, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Dr. Hyman,
A wonderful new launch of your site:) Great information. Your first page explains my life in a nut shell, it only took me 52 years to figure it out:) I love functional medicine!! As more and more Doctors and the general public begin to look outside the pharmaceutical box for real solutions instead of unsterile bandaids, perhaps we can all solve the medical crises in our country. If you ever want another platform to share information, Piece of Mind Radio Program would welcome your voice of common sense to the radio waves in Boise Idaho and world wide via the internet.
Dr. Hyman!
Functional medicine is right on the money. I moved to central Illinois last year after having lived in CA for 20+ years and have had 3 severe asthma attacks and one bout of vertigo, and ongoing sinus infections; all of which ended up in the emergency room. Until moving back to Peoria, I thought I had outgrown asthma during my childhood. Prior to being advised that I need to be on long-term or ongoing medical treatment (aka an inhaler and steroid) I stumbled upon the fact that Central IL has some of the worst air pollution in the nation, due to coal fuel burning + crop spraying: Armed with the cause of my state of disease; I started juicing and drinking fresh fruit juice every morning; which after 2 1/2 months cleared up my sinus problem; as well as revisiting a natural hygiene approach to eating and living (Fit for Life) I’ve started taking probiotics and an herbal blend called 7-Day lung cleanse from a company called Herbal Care Direct out of Canada and have closed my windows!!!!!
I’ve been diagnosed with IBS and told to take antacids by my MD – which I did not do. I found out through muscle testing that need more stomach acid, which helps a lot, but hasn’t totally fixed the problem. Also I have arthritis and bone spurs in both of my big toes at the joint that connects to the foot. I was told to take anti-inflammatory drugs, which I cannot take on a regular basis because I can’t think or function normally on them – so I’m not taking them. I was told when it gets worse they could do surgery on it.
I eat a very healthy diet, exercise regularly, am not overweight, and I’d really like to know what the root cause is. I would like to find a GOOD functional doctor who could help me through the steps, as I do not have the whatever it takes to do this on my own.
Any suggestions of good functional doctors in the East Bay of San Francisco (Walnut Creek or nearby)? or other suggestions? I’ve followed the Ultra Diet on and off but it didn’t quite lick the problem.
Thank you, Amrk, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hello Dr. Hymann,
To study to be a functional medicine practitioner, you would have to go to a special medical school, or how is it?
Thanks in advance.
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Many different medical professionals complete this training, in addition to standard medical education requirements.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I once suffered severe eczema in my late teens early twenties which I soon overcame when I changed my diet to exclude bread and most other wheat products. Later, I began experiencing mild depression and anxiety attacks which I attributed to living in New York:) I began exercising more frequently and dong yoga which began to help with the depression/anxiety. I was feeling healthy for the most part. Just last spring I began experiencing strange changes in equilibrium. I was having subtle anxiety attacks which I have not experienced for some time. It soon escalated to hives forming over my chest, kidneys, buttocks, and sometimes arms. My breathing became severely affected. I follow a gluten free diet. I take vitamin D3, Vitamin C, flax seed Omega-3, multi-Vitamin, and magnesium. I sought an allergist who found me allergic to some trees, grasses, and molds and gave me meds which I did not take more than a day. My blood tests came back clear for thyroid, adrenal, and other imbalances. I did see an acupuncturist who helped alleviate the hives, the cognitive changes, and energy, but now I am experiencing a physical allergy. When I shower or work-out and feel a change in temperature, my breathing is affected. It is all very mysterious to me because it is only recently that I have been aware of such body responses to my environment. Any suggestions would be appreciated. How do you feel about CoQ10 and allergies?
Thank you, Catherine, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I have bronchiectasis. Is that an autoimmune disease? If so, what is it likely caused by?
Thank you, Ray, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
LI have been reading your material for about a year now. You make more sense than any other dictor I have read or talked to. IL am pretty healthy. I went on the diet and did not discover any alergies so I just ry to eat healthy foods and avoid unhealthy foods and take certain spplements. I have a lot of energy. Chronologically, I am 76 years old and my doctor tells me I am physically aout 65.
I still have a few issues I don’t know how to treat. I have chronic sinusitis. I try to control it by using a neti pot and I use a nasal spry with a small amount of cloidal silver. but I continut have chronic inflalmation and a lot of phlem in my throat. I have been on thyroid medication for about 30 years and havesings of ungus infection. I have toe nail fungus and get ring worm on my feet and legs. I keep the fungus under control with over the counter ani fungal medication but it returns very quickly if I stop using the medication and returns sometimes even though I am using medication. I don’t like to take anti biotics because it gets my digestive system out of balance. What should I do differently?
Thank you, John, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I have had the left thyroid removed. The biopsy shows papillary thyroid cancer. the doctors want to remove the other half. How long do I try a total diet change to see if that eradicates cancer before I finally have the other half removed?
Thank you, Kathy, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Thanks for your good work!
I have had diabetes type II since 1996. In 2002 I was diagnosed with kidney failure I spent a week in hospital. My creatinine level was 760. A biopsy of my liver was done and nothing was found. My calcium level in the blood was high.
My nephrologist said that a biopsy on my kidneys was required but that it should be done on my good kidney (ultrasound showed that one kidney was not functioning properly and both were slightly smaller than normal). I was told that if bleeding occurred the kidney would have to be removed so I refused the biopsy on the kidney. I was diagnosed with sarcoidosis.and put on prednisone.
I am still on it and I have a problem controlling my blood sugar.
My creatinine level swings between 363 and 450.
My diabetes doctor is only concerned with my blood sugar which he treats with insulin but I have read that too much insulin can cause many problems in the body.
Can you please help?
Thank you, Franklyn, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
hello, I am 55,and I have been following all your recommendations from Ultrametabolism and what I dont understand is why as of the last 4 months my trigliceride levels have suddenly shot up , The only change in my lifrstyle in these 4 months is that I decreased my excercise due to knee problems. Do you think this could explain , I am not overweight,, weigh 145 lbs and 5ft 9 inches tall.What can I do to reduce the levels, since I already follow all your dietary recommendations. I cannot do excercise for another 2 months.
thanks
Thank you, Doris, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
My husband has been in and out of depression for over 15 years. About 5 years ago the obsessive-compulsive behaviour started to become noticeable. Almost two years ago he threw our dog across the living room in a fit of anger, and I told him that he had to get help or I was leaving him. Two days later I got an email listing Ultramind as one of the most important books published that year. I had the book in my hands three days later and we started working through the exercises.
The diet went into place by the end of the week. We have had little support from our family Dr who wants to put him on ssr’s. Two weeks showed improvement, three months it was clear to family that something was improving. Two years later I have the man I married back. He exercises regularly, avoids gluten and dairy, and still needs a few of the supplements the book helped us identify. I am now studying to become a registered dietician because this approach has to become the next paradigm shift in medicine.
Thank you for giving us our lives back.
Dr.
I have been diagnosed with eczema which periodically flares up on me particularly in marked weather changing conditions.
I’ve also had a “dry cough” which is presumably allergy related.
Can you provide me with any recommendations on how to eliminate/control these conditions..?? Is it possible that these are interconnected..??
Thank you in advnace for your response.
Dale Siswick
Thank you, Dale, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hi Dr. Hyman,
I have been an avid follower of your website and books. I am 58 and I have gained weight my whole adult life. When I hit my 30′s I started having problems with joint pain. Doctors have diagnosed me with Fribro, arthritis, IBS, possible Sryogens and Vitaligo. When I retired, I took up yoga and Zumba and now exercise regularly. The yoga has been life changing for stress and relaxation. I bought a Vitamix and started making green smoothies everyday. I changed to an organic diet by joining a not for profit organic co-op. I am now losing weight. Things that hurt, no longer hurt. I am completely convinced that what we eat and exercise the key ingredients to defeating body inflation. The foods we buy in the store contribute to our poor health and are like poisons in our bodies. It is nice to finally go to my doctor and say I feel great. From everything I read about the Vitamix and drinking leafy vegetables with fruit, I am a convert. I am also taking whole food vitamins and a good fish oil supplement. It doesn’t take much to get back to feeling good. I only wish my parents knew what I knew. I could have avoided a lifetime of pain.
Dr. Hyman,
I had a sinus infection in 1990 that I still have not been able to beat. In 1992 I came down with a severe case of arthritis and am still on medication for that. Before all that I was very healthy and active. I am at a loss of what to do. I have also put on weight since then.
Thank you, Richard, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
After almost a year of going to doctors in 2000-2001, and also having my so-called cancerous gall bladder removed (it was not cancerous), I was finally diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitus. The doctor who diagnosed me told me she had never seen anyone so sick, who also got better so fast. It took about three months of taking prednisone for my liver numbers to be normal, and during that time, the doctor was decreasing my dosage. I attributed that to my lifestyle, which had been a healthy one for most of my life. She said it was “bad luck” that I contracted this, and I still don’t know where it came from. Today I am taking 3 mg. daily of prednisone, and only one doctor I’ve been to has told me to stop taking it. The others are afraid that if I have a reoccurence of inflammation, they won’t know where to start on my treatment. Even though 3 mg. is a small amount, I still do not like taking it, but am at a loss as to what to do. I eat an extremely healthy diet, and am a very active 71 year old grandmother. I exercise (walking or elliptical machine) every day, and do weight training 3 to 4 times a week. I sleep well, have a great social life and a loving family that I see regularly. I wish I could stop taking the steroid.
Thank you, Judy, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I have Hashimotos (autoimmune thyroiditis). I was tested for food allergies and didn’t have any but I haven’t been tested for celiac so I think I will ask my Doctor about it when I go for my physical soon. I don’t seem to have symptoms of that (for example, I can eat whole wheat and be perfectly fine, it is if I eat the processed stuff like white bread that I have a bad reaction, I swell up). I was tested for CRP back in 2005 and it was mildly elevated, and since then I have been doing things to try to calm/help my immune system. As soon as a find a job I am going to see a FMP, although I have good insurance I know it won’t cover a lot of that stuff, as it didn’t cover most of what my MD/ND did. I wish I knew about this sooner.
I could do with some medical help too. I am treated for hypothyroidism, alopecia areata, but nothing for my lifelong lymphedema. Recently I have fungus on my feet. One really big worry is my lack of concentration and I try to do sudoku and other brain tests to help the concentration issue. I did find a number of years ago that I had to cut processed foods and breads out of my diet and this helps me considerably. I try to keep my weight down but seem to always hit 140. Is there help for these issues?
Thank you, Helen, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I had two autoimmune illnesses, one as a teenager with hyperthroid resulting in the surgical removal of my thyroid, now on euthroid, and at menopause, Pemphigus Vulgaris for 12 years and was on every immune suppresent and prednisone, under the sun. I was in and out of hospitals as they tried to suppress my skin blistering and peeling and not healing. I suffered many side effects of the drugs and after being hospitalized and dosed with prednisone and then weaned off slowly I am in remission. I still have to build up my immunity and have gone into menopause, had a hysterectomy which when they took out all the organs found nothing wrong with them!!!, had a cataract operation, etc. I will follow the practices you suggest and tell you what happens to my arthritis, depression, hair loss, soft nails, age spots, and cataracts.
What is the use of IgG Allergy test? And how should I go further to treat psoriasis? or what precaution should I take? please suggest
Thank you, Vijay, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Can people provide information here about what an anti-inflammatory diet is – what foods are included and what foods are not recommended?
My issues – sinus and ear inflections, forehead and ears get hot, eczema, arthritis, irritable bowel. Had some serious illnesses a few years ago – doing better now. I had that H-pylori infection Dr. Hyman discussed.
Does anyone know what an ANA blood test means? It shows a slight trace of lupus or systemic sclerosis. Some doctors say it means nothing. Others say it is at the level of the symptoms I have.
Thank you for your message and interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I feel much better when I eat meat. Cheese is complicated. On the positive side it lowers blood sugar and cures blood sugar spikes and it satisfies hunger. On the other hand I have lactose intolerance and it also causes stomach acidity. The problem is that sometimes cheese is the only thing that satisfies hunger and keeps me from overeating. I feel better eating fish but it is so expensive. I am getting food at the foodbank – they have meat and chicken but rarely fish. I also do well with free range turkey.
No food allergies showed up in my tests. Alergic to everything else, though.
What are the best ways to control dust and allergens indoors in the winter? I am better when I can have the windows open. My sinuses get clogged in the winter. It becomes a vicious cycle. I often don’t have the energy to keep the apartment as clean as I wish, so then bacteria or dust can accumulate and make things worse. I can’t dust with a commercial product in the winter as my skin and sinuses can’t take the chemical. I have most of my chothes in closet bags so that the cotton won’t attract dust mites. Unfortunately the apartment has carpets – I would preter a wood floor, but finding an apartment with a wood floor is impossible in this area. I already got rid of all couches or stuffed chairs and have casings over my mattress and pillows.
Thank you for your message and interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Doctor and others – I would like to know of remedies for sinuses other than nose sprays. The sprays always run down into my stomach and irritate my stomach and they also irritate my vocal cords. Every time I go to a doctor with a sinus problem I tell them I need something that is not a nose spray and what do they prescribe … another nose spray. They say, “Oh, this one will work,” they act as if I have an IQ of zero.
I did six weeks of the Ultramind Solution (last August-September) — found it was hard to go without sugar (no probem with other items). I think I may have some sensitivity to dairy (flatulence causing?). Big thing is — vasculitis (Weggoners) diagnosed Dec. 2001, 8 months meds, 7 years remission; and now 18 months prednisone and Immuran — which leaves me really vulnerable to infection in my lungs with Bronchiecstasis — also anemic. I have always been an energetic person. Luckily at age 75, I still feel well enough to go on bike rides, play tennis, garden and do carpentry projects, but I would love to get off the Immuran — but nephrologists say stay on it as this disease comes back with a vengeance.
In addition to Dr. Hyman’s books, people should read the following book:
Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms? When My Lab Tests Are Normal: A Revolutionary Breakthrough In Understanding Hashimoto’s Disease and Hypothyroidism – by Dr. Datis Kharrazian
This book describes autoimmune disorders and explains the 2 sides of the immune system and ways to treat it and several diseases.
I’m a 43 year old woman living in Seattle, Washington. I was raised poor in a very dysfunctional family but stumbled into dancing at a young age. I continued to follow that pursuit passionately through my adult life, and made and performed modern dance for 20 years. It became my savior and my demon. I am now in the 10th year of one of the most physically and spiritually challenging experiences of my life — the walk with epilepsy. I began experiencing seizures 10 years ago, and my life literally fell apart. For someone who had spent her life finding refuge in the practice of controlling her body, finding myself having 20 seizures a week threw me into an identity crisis of huge proportions. When it began, my husband and I thought I would go out into the world, sit down and talk with a neurologist and find consolation in their knowledge and hope in the pathway they would help me find to understanding this disease. That is not what I found. What I discovered was a medical system corrupted by not only the capitalist profit motive but a myriad of other social dysfunctions. It was cruel and it actually it became clear to me very quickly that it was selling ignorance. I literally spoke to doctors who shrugged their shoulders when I asked them to explain to me all they knew about seizure disorder. It also quickly became clear that the system is extremely predatory and feeds off of people’s distress and vulnerability. They want and need you to be ill for a very long time, hopefully a lifetime. I was charged $1,000.00 by hospitals when I found myself delivered there during a seizure event because someone called 911. I literally emerged from seizures inside hospitals, was told I had epilepsy for the 100th time, jumped off the bed, thanked the nurse, left the hospital, and faced an enormous bill a few weeks later for that charade. I was once charged $300.00 by a doctor for literally telling me “I don’t discuss options outside a pharmaceutical approach.” As I told my friends, “This would be great satire, if it wasn’t true.” It became clear to me that the people I feared the most in the outside world were the people who should of have been helping me — the doctors and staff of the medical industry. The thought that I might end up in a hospital during a seizure terrified me. It was only when I finally accepted what I experienced as true and divorced myself entirely from this disaster of a medical system that I began to find my health again. I’ve done most of this with the help of a dedicated massage therapist and through my own efforts at research and observation. As an artist I’ve always been a social critic but this walk with disease has taught me more than any other experience in my life about the illnesses of our country’s social structures and the impact of its cultural dysfunctions on our individual lives. I am now writing my first book on my experience. It will be titled “Seized” and I hope to have it completed by Spring 2011. The system is very, very ill and can no longer treat illness in its own state of extreme imbalance. Thank you for doing the work you do. It has provided me a lot of hope. If you have any questions about my experience or want to know more, please feel free to contact me. I welcome the opportunity to share my story.
Yes i am totally
agreed with this article and i just want say that this article is very nice and
very informative article
San Diego Carpet Cleaners
I wad diagnosed with autoimmune disease 7 years ago ( rheumatoid arthritis). I went through worsening my health 6 of those years. I got diabetes taking steroids.
Stomach trouble, depression, my growth glands went to sleep causing
Horrid hormone problems.
I started a macrobiotic diet one year ago. Today my lab numbers are
Back to normal and I am feeling about 80% better. My growth glands
are still not quite back to normal, but have been improving immensely.
If I sway away from the diet I do feel worse but eating whole grains, vegetables,
Beans, fruits, nuts and mild animal food such as fish, seafood and free range chicken brings the best results for me to live close to being back to normalcy.
Thank you for letting me post this response
LAST 2003 I FELL BACKWARDS & I HIT CHAIR, TABLES, CEMENTS FLOOR.
MY HEAD, SHOUDLER BLADE, –SPINE.
I HAD BAD BACK INJURY FOR THREE WEEKS.
THEN LAST YR IT STARTED PAIN AND FEW MONTHS AGO,
I PRICK MY MIDDLE FINGER TO CHECK MY SUGAR LEVELS
AND IT GOT BAD SPOT –IT GOT MY NERVE PAIN SHOOTS UP MY BOTH HAND
UP TO MY ARMS, EVEN UP TO MY HEAD TOO.
I COULDN’T MAKE FIST, WRITE, WASH DISHES, EVEN COMPUTER, ETC.
WHY IS SOOOOOO DAMN PAIN HANDS ?????
ALL DAY ALL NIGHT I !@##$$%%^^ HATED THIS.
I COULDN’T GET GOOD SLEEP. BECAUSE PAIN AND ALSO, I HAVE TO PEE EVERYTIME.
Thank you, Wendy, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Thank you so much!
Hi, I am so relieved to find your website with a huge amount of info that I hope will help me. AFter about 10 years of going doctor to doctor to try and figure out problematic skin rashes I finally was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder. Thankfully I was seeing a naturopathic doctor who suggested I take a test for gluten intolerance-not for celiac but intolerance-and I tested positive(had tested neg. for celiac). After 6 months of gluten free my symptoms vanished. However five years later-now-I am starting to have symptoms again and have been thinking that maybe my symptoms were eleviated by not eating gluten but that there are underlying causes like toxins in my body. Well glad to see your site and am hoping to be able to follow your suggestions for cleaning house and hopefully will feel better soon
One of our neurologists here keeps her MS patients in remission by maintaining their vitamin D levels at the top end of the range.
D-mannose, an extract of cranberry can help with urinary tract infections caused by e.coli by snatching the e.coli and enabling it to be excreted.
.”; I am very thankful to this topic because it really gives useful information “:.
I am 27 years old and was diagnosed with Sjogren’s Syndrome when I was 17. I suffered from swollen parotid glands, no dry eyes or dry mouth. Last year, I took a routine blood test, and came back with a severly low platelet count, which I had for about 2 or 3 years prior. I was diagnosed as having ITP. After being hospitalized and heavily treated with Solumedrol and prednisone, my platelet numbers increased and I was released. I have been battling my immune system ever since. My body is completely out of whack. I now experience joint pain and swelling, a condition of my sjogrens that never existed before. I was put back on a low dose of prednisone, but as I am tapering my dose, my platelets are again dropping… I am just looking for something that I can do other than take more drugs… I am young, I don’t want to be committed to medications for the rest of my life. If Dr. Hyman is taking any patients or odd cases… tell me where to sign up
Its hard to know where to turn when you feel like your doctor’s don’t have any information…
Thank you , Jennifer, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hi, I’m a 46 year old female diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia. The pain, inflammation and fatigue are so severe that I spend weeks at a time inside, mostly on the couch, which of course leads to serious bouts of depression. I do see a Rheumatologist, and have been prescribed a slew of medications. I take Simponi (biologic), Torodol, Flexeril, Norco, on a regular basis and then Prendisone when I can’t take it anymore. The drugs are a disease in themselves, as you know the side effects can kill you or cause another disease that will kill you. I’m at my wits end. I want out of this horrible so called life as it is- there has to be a better way.
I am willing to no eat or eat whatever it takes to make me better.
Sign me up, where do I start?
I’ve been diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis. It’s an autoimmune disease that attacks by bladder. I am worried about taking the supplements as directed in the Ultra Simple Diet, as acid – vitamin C – causes flares for me. Flares are major UTI symptoms with no infection present. I am in the 8th day of my current flare and am finally ready to make major changes. I got the book Ultra Simple Diet a few years ago but never really made any changes. Any advice on whether to just do the diet and not supplements? I want to make changes but not ones that will further cause pain.
Thank you, Jennifer, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I’ll start this by answering the questions you posted above:
Have you been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease? Yes, Hypothyroidism, Arthritis, Allergies, Hypertention and by some doctors Candidiasis and by others Candidiasis is a “myth”.
How is your doctor treating you? It’s hard or impossible to find a doctor who listens, though I have been able to obtain a natural (Armour) thyroid medication after years of proving my case with printouts.
Have you been frustrated by the medical advice that you’ve been given? Every single time I go to a doctor appointment!
What steps have you taken to get to the root of the problem, and what have your results been? I have read many books and tried many diets and only ended up making myself sicker (gave myself severe anemia).
I am currently so incredibly sick of how I feel. I work out 3 to 5 times per week and have for over 25 years, consistently. After my last pregnancy 18 years ago, I had tro fight my doctor for 3 years to diagnose my hypothyroidism, which turned out to be severe. I can not lose weight (140 lbs and fairly muscular, but at 130 – 135 lbs my blood pressure is closer to “normal”), am chronically fatigued and achy with puffy burning eyes. I have tried going gluten and dairy free and it helps a little but I am still fatigued and plagued with extremely sensitive eyes. My eyes are so incredibly sensitive that I can not wear even the most hypo-allergenic or organic make-up (I’ve wasted hundreds of dollars trying!), nor can I put any kind of moisturizer on my face, even the prescriptive expensive kind you get from a dermatologist. I’m actually so tired of being miserable that if it weren’t for my children, I would give up on living. HELP!!
Hi Dr mark, I’ve read your grass fish stuff, and was a fish pond farmer in Israel. On this later .You mention Omega3 and there is some new development your readers would like to know of ,alsow containing Q10 and more then 100 more nutrients and anti oxidizing properties beside the most stable Omega 3-ALA known today ,and I’m sure you know babys get this type of Omega from brest feeding moms .I’d be happy to tell you more, it can change Omega consumption in the US, especially after the class action served on fish oil producers in San Francisco this year on undisclosed PCB”S content .but I need a response .Will you? Thanks, Moshe
Please provide the Autoimmune Theory publications that have been peer reviewed and published in medical journals. If I don’t get a response back this would confirm that the autoimmune theory is just that, a theory. This theory has been touted for decades without a grain of truth to back it up. It’s like …… keep telling an untruth and eventually it becomes the truth. It is quite something if you don’t know the explanation just say it’s an autoimmune theory and that makes it so. We have come more informed thanks to the Internet so things are being called out. Just because you sat it so does not make it so. I guess most researchers will now have to auctually do some legitimate work to present the truth on theories.
Thank you for this wonderful website. My son (now 6) was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis at 1 year old. We have been following specialist orders for years and have allowed him to be treated with biologics (TNF blockers) Humira and Etanercept along with Methotrexate. It has worked well in suppressing his symptoms, but we have come to the realization this will not be his life. We will find a cure by going back to the basics and hopefully we can show him a normal life! With published research and medical advice like yours we now know that there is another way. Thank you for your time and sacrifices assembling this for us all. This will turn peoples lives around!
My autoimmune disease does not have a name,but I have been told that it is Lupus like. It goes through my nervous and circulatory system and shows symptoms such as red welts and swelling on my skin. I have been told that it is organ specific and have already lost a kidney ( with the second one attacked as well) and my thyroid gland. My specialist has told me the only option is a mild dose of steroids to settle it. As I have Osteoporosis as well, I am hesitant in using these.How much Vitamin C and D and fish oils should I be taking to alleviate my symptoms? I have had a bad attack for the last 6 weeks with many welts, feeling really hot and tired and putting a considerable amount of weight on.
Greetings, I need all of the help-Education & uidance I can get to help me manage my wife’s RA
Her CRP is 700!! and her WBC is anemic!
She survived cancer this past year and had multiple surgeries.
Thank You in advance,
Bill
Thank you, William, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Someone told me that cow’s milk increases inflammation. I have Hashimoto’s; is that an autoimmune form of thyroid disease?
Thanks
Dr. Hyman,
I am a 31 year old mother. I have been run down for years. I always knew I had hypothyroidism and had a goiter when I was pregnant with my first child. After the pregnancy they removed the goider to see if it was cancerous. It wasn’t but the doctor put me on synthroid. I had three children and after my third I noticed I had weird headaches and vertigo, allergy problems and I’d never had allergies before as well as sinus infections. I kept going back for the sinus issues and was given more and more amoxicillin. Finally they gave me a nasal steroid spray for my ‘inflammation.’ I took it for 4 days and I lost taste and smell, experience burning mouth syndrome for two weeks, then it attacked my salivary glands and I had no saliva and dry eyes for weeks, they assumed sjogren’s followed by the worst aches and pains I’d ever felt. I had to take showers to keep my body warm. I lost feeling inside and out and I’m slowly getting some feeling back but I have weird vein issues now and strange aches and pains. I have gone to so many doctors and they’ve done a lot of tests only to find my lupus test showed a low positive and I have Hashimoto’s Disease. I’d had it for years and never knew it. Now it’s three months later, I’m still extremely exhausted all the time, my eyes hurt, I have headaches, my foot twitches and I have crawling feelings under my skin. I’m being checked for yeast and treated for leaky gut. I found out my cortisol levels are extremely low and being treated for that. My biggest concern is my eyes right now. I keep getting pain behind them and floaters are starting to appear and yet my after three eye exams nothing’s showing up. Could this be from low cortisol? I’m concerned this could also be lyme but my blood test was negative.
I contacted lyme disease in 2009. I was given a prescription of doxycycline and told that would take care of it and I felt “back to normal” and I thougth I was cured. I began having symptoms again within a short period of time and went back to the Dr. She told me I was going to have to live with some pain and basically, to “cowgirl” up and deal with it. I started having flu line symptoms, sinuitis, phlegm, night sweats, on and on and on. I went to a holistic medicine dr and got accupuncture and herbs. He also gave me another prescriotion of doxycycline. I have been diagnosed with spinal sarcoidosis, (can’t walk without a walker or drive).
I hav e a large mass of granulomas on my spine ( a biopsy was done on Jan. 31 which made my legs and feet more dead and tingly. I am on huge doses of prediosone. My bowles and bladder were affected and I have to take a stool softener and flowmax.
I had been practicing functional medicine since 2004. I get Dr. Mercola’s news letter and use his supplements ie krill oil, probiotics, multivitamins, vitamin B-12 .
stopped using aluminum cook ware,. I still got this disease and I am determined to get off the steroids and need help and information on what to do.
My personal email : hippihart@hotmail.com.
My doctor brushed off the pain in my hands for 8 months, saying it was a psychosomatic symptom of my anxiety disorder. It wasn’t until I went to him with hands so swollen I could barely bend my fingers that he decided to check them out. One blood test, and the results came back probably for RA. He referred me to a rheumatologist. I was also having stomach problems. My Hpylori test was negative, as was the test for Celiac disease. Everything I eat causes nausea and lots of trips to the bathroom. I was referred to a GI doc, who said my gallbladder is fine and ordered a scope, which showed an ulcer.
Since my RA factor came back negative, the Rheumatologist told me I didn’t have RA, but that I had “something.” He drew more blood & ordered hand x-rays. The x-rays were normal. The blood test showed an elevated SED rate. He gave me steroids, even though I’m already quite overweight, and ordered a nuclear medicine full body bone scan. That came back with inflammation in every joint of every finger, plus my wrists and elbows. He gave me Relafen, but I can’t take it because of my ulcer since it’s an NSAID medication. My primary MD says no steroids because of possible weight gain.
My GI doc says no NSAIDs because of the ulcer. The Rheumatologist is ticked off because he can’t give me his “standard course of treatment.” So he didn’t give me anything. I’m on my own, trying to find ways to get the swelling down and keep my body from damaging itself any further. It is SO frustrating to be bounced around from doctor to doctor. I wish they’d all just get in the same room and TALK TO EACH OTHER and give me something that will help me feel better.
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
may god shower all his heavenly blessings on you Doctor Hyman.I appreciate Your findings by heart. Respected sir you are angel who brought me out of depression due to ankylosing spondylitis.I am in india.For god sake help me.
Thank you, Irfan, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
My granddaughter is very ill with auto immune problems. She is five years of age; she has been treated by 5 specialist doctors or 4 years, but no cure. I would like to setup and appointment with you.
Thank you,
Eneida Rivera
phone: 949-394-1828
Irvine, ca 92617
Thank you, Eneida, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I have three (and counting) autoimmune diseases: CIDP, rhuematoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and, quite possibly, sarcoidosis (indicated on blood test but not confirmed). How can you or another functional medicine practitioner help with these conditions? Thank you.
For years (at least 15!) I had been suffering from chronic pain along with irritable bowel syndrome and a host of other maladies. Doctors could find nothing and would constantly send me home with pain killers that I refused to take. I didn’t want a band-aid, I wanted to find the source of my pain! It took years for me to finally figure out how incredibly inflammed my body was and finding Dr. Mark Hyman confirmed my results! It frightens me to think that the FDA and the food and pharmaceutical industry are all in it for the sake of money and that we, the american public, are left to fend for ourselves or die at the hands of doctors who continue to pat us on the back and prescribe everything from pain killers to anti-depressants to deal with our sicknesses. Our bodies are an eco-system. And we, along with our planet are deteriorating to the point of long-term suffering and waste. I pray that more people take responsibility for themselves and discover that our bodies are as pure and precious as God created us to be and that we need to stop polluting not just our planet, but our bodies especially!
I was diagnosed with low thyroid about 1996, and a couple of years later it was diagnosed as Hashimoto’s. Synthroid was not cutting the mustard–in fact it seemed that I was being given some sugar pill placebo, so the doctor put me on Levoyl, which seems to have, more or less, been stablizing for the blood testing, though in the past few years with stress levels up in the household, as well as work, it seems I am always needing higher dosing….I once wrote all the “weird” & vague accummulation of symptoms on a gum wrapper I kept maybe 10 years, because if I read it periodically, it would remind me what got me diagnosed the first time, and allow me to judge the difference between need and okay. As my mom, now 97, once said, if thyroid supplementation is the only thing you need into old age, you are doing okay….and she, too, takes thyroid…but little else. When my dad was alive she kept both of them on a regimen of nutritional supplements, but after he passed at 89, and her income halved, she cut back on those, and I think that hurt her, because it wasn’t long she went “over the hill” mentally, but even in her dementia she is clear about “NO DOCTORS!!!”–she always fed us a varied diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, which I thought was normal for everybody. Anyways, I actually trained as a dietitian, but moved towards health services administration before becoming a mom a little later in life and concentrating on that rewarding career. It was somewhere in the early 40′s my own health issues began to crop up, Lossing weight, for all the activity i was involved in that in the past would have shed, didn’t. But the last 10 years even with care to diet, etc, the weight gain has been steady or aggressively maintained–little brings weight off–maybe a bad round of flu or such, and if I am REAL careful, it will stay off awhile. I walk a LOT. I read up on diets, conditions, supplements, but have accepted that short of never eating (Ha, like that will happen!) I am going to live and enjoy my life as is, and try not to gain more. I’m not bad at reducing exposure to things like gluten, dairy, soy, etc. but it doesn’t bother me enough to eliminate it entirely–it is usually when eating out, traveling that it is consumed. One thing has changed–the marriage finally disintegrated after 29 years, and I am on my own (with stressful financial problems) but a lot of the stress symptoms are abated–the BP is almost normal even on a bad day. I do most of my lab tests through directlabs.com and have them sent to my long time doc who then kindly calls the prescription in for the thyroid, I have no medical insurance, so I am pretty proactive with supplementing where I find benefit. Been doing pretty darn good. Would be cool to find my thyroid levels are stable for a change next go!
Dr. Hyman, your site is the first one I find on my search for an alternative cure. I have just been diagnosed with Hashimotos and arthritis. Being an MD myself, I am keen on going to the source, but my doctor is more about treating the symptoms. Thank you so much for the encouragement!
Hello Dr.
I have had poor health for as long as I can remember, especially since about age 14 and up.
I am 38 now. I have auto immune disease. I test positive for hashimoto’s thyroiditis. I also have RA (no tests, but was told this several years ago), Ranaud’s, Plantar Facitis; and was recently told that I may have fibromyalgia too. I have been unable to work for the last year and am being supported by my boyfriend. This causes a great deal of guilt for me. I suffer daily. I have lost 16 pounds without trying. I have daily oily, not normal looking bowel movements. I have pain and bloating in my lower gut and pain that moves around my entire abdomen. I have head pain that burns on the right side almost daily now. There are so many more symptoms……..!!! I am working with a neurologist-chiropractor. We have started to try to heal my gut, but all these terrible bowel movements are terrrifying me. I only weigh 98 lbs. I am frightened. Any thoughts/ advice for me?? I would be willing to share any other info you might need to answer me. It’s not that I don’t trust this other doctor, because I do, but I feel that I will take all the help I can get because of the seriousness of my condition.
Thank you.
Alicia
Thank you, Alice, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
i have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease (Lupus), and i took Plaquenil for over a year, but i feel i was misdiagnosed. as i am feeling ok now. i don’t have any problems , my tests all are good except for white blood cells count which is low, but my mum says that this is inherited in our family….all i have now is Raynauds, with no other symptoms… what do u think?
Thank you, Shaimaa, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Dr. Hyman,
Your site has certainly raised my interest. I was diaganosed with a form of kidney disease, FSGS, 12 years ago. I was 42 at the time. I asked what caused me to get this disease and was told it could be one of many things. Rather than try to find the cause, the doctors would try to slow it down by prescribing predisone. It has now progressed to the point that I do PD dialysis daily. My understanding is that this is an autoimmune disorder. Do you know if anything can be done to reverse the progression of FSGS. Thanks.
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I was very encouraged by your article. I was finally diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome about a year ago, however I have quite a few other symptoms. Have you had any experience in dealing with EDS? I would like any information you have regarding possible natural treatments. Thank you!
Melissa
Thank you, Melissa, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I was diagnosed with MS in 1998 when I had two small children and was getting ready to go back to school full time. My neurologist put me on Copaxone and I stayed on it until a year ago. At that time I had just completed a master’s degree, went through a lot of stress at work, didn’t have the time to exercise or eat well. I developed vertigo, heat intolerance, and generally felt tired and weak. My MRI showed a lot of activity and lesions, which my doctor said were normal, but she changed my medication to Rebif anyway. I do not feel better or different a year later and I my increasingly frustrated with how I feel.
I am an outdoor person, but because of how I feel I can not enjoy getting outside. I used to walk 30 minutes a day, but I can’t get that far any more and if it is hot or cold out I have a hard time getting past the end of my driveway. I do not get out and away from my house much and find I do not get to enjoy many of the things I used to enjoy.
I am seeking your advice as to how to approach these problems from a functional medicine point of view because I have felt for a long time that these treat the symptom approaches are not addressing the cause.
Thank you for giving me a place to express my frustration.
How can you know whether diet is ‘driving’ your autoimmune condition? I was diagnosed with Grave’s Disease last year (6 months after having my first child) and in the last 2 months have been having MS-type symptoms with an ‘inconclusive’ diagnosis. I am very ready to change my diet but I don’t know what to – I suspect that I may have some systemic candida in my body and would like to work on that, but also am thinking I should try the MS-diet. How can someone be sure of what is ‘causing’ their autoimmune disorder?
Dear Heidi, thank you for your comment and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. There are a couple more articles you might review to find your answer:
http://drhyman.com/blog/2010/12/31/the-failure-of-decoding-the-human-genome-and-the-future-of-medicine/
http://drhyman.com/blog/conditions/is-there-a-cure-for-autoimmune-disease/
http://drhyman.com/blog/conditions/autoimmune-disease-stop-your-body-from-attacking-itself/
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hi dr. human,
Our 5 year old son was hospitalized for a week and finally diagnosed with early onset juvenile arthritis. He has had a high fever once a day for 3 weeks now with an accompanying body rash that appears withe the rash and then disappears when gone. We are in the process of determining if this is the correct diagnosi as he does not have any joint swelling. He also has had a chronic cough for a year now. We have suspected food allergies but after a skin and blood test we were told he has none. After being referred to your website I am hopeful that we may be on the right path. We live in Michigan, are there any doctors here you can recommend? We have been to almost every doctor we can think to help diagnose this but are growing weary and scared as our son is not better.
Please help.
Thanks,
Jessie
Hi Jessie, thank you for your interest in Dr Hyman’s website. We are forwarding a link to help you locate a Funtional Medicine practitioner in your area:
http://www.functionalmedicine.org
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Love this message I want to see you asap thanks
typo in paragraph 24 – correction
This unfortunately is all to common
*too common.
Thank you Jill.
I have been diagnosed 2 different times with autoimmune disease. Both times I had to do the research and then ask the doctors to test me before they said- you are right- you have lupus and then, right again- you have polymyalgia. At first they said there was nothing wrong and maybe I was just depressed or tired. I fought the lupus and won for years. But the polymyalgia is not getting better; it seems to get worse each week. I am on prenisone but I have noticed that some days I feel good and others, the pain is so intense, I don’t want to move. I have been wondering about the possibility of food allergies and now I know I want to be tested and see for sure if food(s) might be causing these ups and downs.
Dr Hyman, is it possible that chronic infections can cause an autoimmune disease? I used to keep colds, flu, bronchitis infections regularly when my kids were little, and I’d catch anything they did. When I got married, within 3 years, I was sick with this autoimmunity. I contracted HSV-1 from him, and now I get outbreaks every 4 to 6 weeks. I can take doxycycline and prevent an infection, and when I used it last year, it helped me feel better for a short while, but I still cannot seem to get past the need for plaquenil and imuran. Only thing that helps me stay out of bed and function. Only unhealthy habits I have are smoking, not drinking water, and not exercising. I am vitamin D & B12 deficiant but I am taking medication to treat both. Do you have any suggestions (other than telling me to quit smoking haha).. I would love some natural ways to help my immune system function normally. Is that possible?
Hi Mary, we can refer you to the funtional medicine site to find a physician in your area to help you, please see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
do you treat alopecia. My niece has it , all head hair but has eye lash and brows. She is emotional and easily stressed and started with a broken relationship years ago.She is frequently exhausted, can’t sleep without sleeping pills and often overreacts to situations and over analyze what is said. Worries about every ones problems. More important than alopecia is the stress she is constantly under and panic attacks.
Thank you, Patricia, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. prospective patients or feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor regarding your niece.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I was diagnosed with RA 11 years ago at age 26. I, fortunately, found “functional medicine” before I knew there was a name for it. I mostly did it on my own and through trail and error. But I did finally get everything right with my diet (Wheat was a big inflammatory food for me). I started with a Candida elimination diet and then went gluten free. I discovered somewhere along the way that Spelt Flour and Bread was ok for me. I also found an amazing healing clinic in Amesbury, MA that was instrumental in me finally gaining the upper hand on the inflammation. They suggested anti-inflammatory and immune modulating supplements for me to take. Finally after 5 years I had all the pieces. With strict adherence to a wheat free (spelt was the only gluten containing food) and the supplements I was symptom free in 9 months and all my blood tests returned to normal. I will also say there was a big stress/emotional component to this that can NOT be overlooked. Emotional healing my seem to “new age” for some….but if you’re doing all the diet things and still not healing fully you most likely have some emotional things you need to address. Today I’m a Health Coach because of my journey. I just had Dr. Hyman as my latest Lecturer!! Thank you Dr. Hyman for helping to bring the truth to light!!
I have Fibromyalgia, was recently diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Disease and I am also showing signs of RA. For a couple of weeks I’ve had a severely swollen and painful knee. My Dr. is testing me for food allergens next week. We’ve been cutting gluten for over a year and after Hashimoto’s, we also cut, corn, soy and eggs. However my inflammation developed while I was avoiding all of these foods, so it must be something else. Time for testing! I will be tested for 113 different food allergens. I can’t wait for the results of these tests, so I will know what foods could be causing my ill health. And, also if indeed it is foods or something else we have not addressed yet. I am thankful that I have a Dr. who looks at my illness in a way where she is interested in finding the root cause, not just give me a bunch of pharma. I might add my Dr. is not an MD, but a ND. Thank you
My wife was diagnosed with a puzzling auto-immune disease about a year and half ago…sarcoidosis. No one seems know how the cause, no one seems to know how to combat it other than steriods, as in prednisone, which opens up a whole other can of worms.
My wife and I feel it might have started while vacationing in Wisconsin 2 years ago. We spent 2 weeks in a 100+ year old cabin on a northern Wisconsin lake…it rained most of the time. The cabin smelled old, moldy & musty. My wife developed “episodes that can last from 2 months to recently 4 months…has a hacking cough like she smoked 2 packs of cigarettes a day for 40 years (she doen’t smoke)…has “burning” lungs, very, very fatigued. she sees a sarcoidosis pulmonoligist at UCSF. treatment is “observation” , reluctant to give predinsone because she may not yet be systemic. Finally she was given Advair…has been using for 2 months…seems to be helping but we don’t really know. We have visited a clinic that provides immunotherapy but they couldn’t reaally say if that would help. Besides, it’s very expensive. The whole thing is very maddening. She is 65 and not enjoying life very much.
Any opinions or suggestions would be helpful.
Thanks…
Hi Joe, thank you for your message. If you would be interested in trying a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. This may offer another perspective and relief for your wife.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hi Dr Hyman,
I have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Nine years into it I had a spontaneous intestinal perforation. After that I finally stopped resisting the anti-TNF injections drs had been trying to put me on for years.
Ever since Dx in 1999, it has been drilled into my head there is no cure, and it has nothing to do with what you are eating or anything else that is under your control. The only thing that can help are the super dangerous medications.
I am extremely frustrated to say the least, angry really. Very angry. I have always favored a functional, “alternative” approach. The doctors and drug companies don’t want a cure, they just want money. Disgusting. I commend you Dr. Hyman for actually caring about people’s health – the reason you are supposed to have for becoming a dr.
I am now seeing a dr at the U of Miami hospital, prominent for research. I plan to discuss this article with her; I hope to not be dismissed as I have by all the other drs.
Thank you.
I have been tested twice for my CRP levels! They have come back high and all they want to do is put me on statins!! I have refused – I know that blood test measures the inflammation – what else can I do? if you want you can even call me.
Thank you I need your help!
Hi Linda, thank you for your email. If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I’d be interesred in your thoughts on chronic fatigue syndrome or ME.Is it possible to recover completely from it or am I likely to always have it a bit,thanks,Deb.
Dr. Hyman … Over 15 years ago I was diagnosed with IC and have been on medication ever since. When originally diagnosed I made dramatic changes to my diet with little change to the IC symptoms. I am able to control this with Prosed DS. Recently started having unexplained pains in my arms. Long story short have undergone a number of blood tests to eliminate things like Lupus, etc.. Was sent to a Rheumatologist who suspects PMR, another inflammatory disease. Am awaiting results of blood work but my symptoms certainly fit. I know she will want to immediately put me on steroids and am not happy about that but living with this debilitating pain is not much of an option either. Her other concern was the possibility of gigantic cell arthritis … a threat to eyesight. Am certainly unsure as to what direction I should be taking at this time.
Many thanks … Kay
Hi there
I would really be interested in your thoughts of my son who is 4years old and has been diagnosed with ocular myastenia gravis, currently on medication but no improvement. Then has hearing loss with neuropathy as well as type 1 diabetes. All 3 are autoimmune conditions. How do I stop these antibodies from attacking each organ.
Many thanks
Famida
Hi Famida, thank you for your comments on Dr. Hyman’s post. We cannot give medical advise over the Internet, if you would like we can direct you to a functional doctor like Dr. Hyman in your area at http://www.functionalmedicine.org.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis 3 years ago. As you know the disease is very dibilitating, esp. if not on any steroids. I am currently taking 10 – 20 mil of prednisone a day. I have tried many medicines, the most recent was methotrexate, but developed a high level of enzyme on my liver and had to discontinue usage. I’m at the point where I have to try the medicines I had been avoiding, such as Humira; it and the others like it have too many serious side effects–I need another alternative. Please share more information and sucess stories about functional medicines.
My husband has a low platelet count, 21k with suspected ITP. He is type 2 diabetic, takes many drugs for this and was recently put on insulin. I would appreciate your comments re a Functional Medicine approach.
Thank you,
Brenda
Hi Brenda, than you for your comment. We cannot offer medical advice online, it would be best to have a functional doctor in your area do an examination of your husband, you can find one at http://www.functionalmedicine.org.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Dr Hyman,
I am so hopeful after reading your articles on Healing Autoimmune Conditions
!
In 2008 I was feeling horrible, but all the doctors said there was nothing wrong…finally I demanded a complete thyroid panel to be taken…My antibodies were 252! Finally I found a Dr. who gave me Armour Thyroid and that helped many of the symptoms I had been dealing with.
Then things seemed to get bad again…My Dr was not too aggressive to dig deeper and find the cause of this illness so I began searching for yet another Dr.
I discovered a Holistic Ob/Gyn and decided to see her. I was also experiencing a lot of hormonal problems at the time.
She put me back on Armour but after another blood test she said my antibodies were getting higher and my body was treating it as an invader. So she put me on Synthroid and Cytomel to my horror! She calls herself a holistic Dr! I agreed to try it for a few months. I did feel better and my antibodies did come back down. But I am not happy being on synthetic drugs and the thought of taking this stuff the rest of my life does not sit well with me. I want to know why I have this and correct the condition in my body that is causing it. Is that asking too much? I also can not lose weight and deal with cravings so I yo yo a lot.
Over the years I have done a lot of research and tried eating well and taking healthy supplements to improve my health. But I just can’t seem to get the right combinations or doses to make a difference. Maybe I have heavy metals in my system? My Dr would not test me for this.
I have your Ultra Wellness Diet book and just finished reading it. I am going to do that soon, but think it would be best for me to go to take the 2 hour journey to your clinic for a deeper evaluation and then find specifics that are causing my condition.
I have passed your name and website along to many of my massage and Reiki clients in hopes that they will follow through to make changes to improve their health as well. I tell everyone; ” We have to be responsible for our own health! ”
Looking forward to visiting your clinic in the near future! And to being healthy once again and medication free!
Blessings to you and all that you do for others!
Have a peaceful day!
Debbie
Interesting article – thank you! I have been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, Behcet’s Disease, Relapsing Polychondritis and have been on multiple medications for over 20 years. My first initial physician thought I had allergies and sent me to an ENT. They put me on the all natural diet, adding foods in one at a time and I lost so much weight, so fast that I ended up hospitalized. The symptoms didn’t quit appearing. I was full of ulcers. To make a long story short, I am now on Enbrel, Methotrexate and medicines for blood pressure and insomnia. I manage the symptoms and my labs are normal or “close.” But now I fight side effects of the medication and they do scare me. I would love more information to get to the root of the problem. Any suggestions?
Hello Angela, thank you for your comment. As you might imagine, we cannot give out medical advice online. We can tell you where to find a functional medicine practioner in your area if you are interested in that type of opinion, please take a look at http://www.functionalmedicine.org.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Dear Dr Hyman,
)
Thank you so much for all your research into this matter, I have Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Metabolic Syndrome, with weight gain. I am very frustrated, because I was diagnosed over three years ago and I have been on medication, but have just been getting fatter and sicker by the day. I am a cellist and can barely play anymore because of the cramping I get in my hands when I play. I am the heaviest I have ever been and quite frankly don’t want to go out. I had a great Dr, who was just a GP, but was very interested in the natural medicine side, he created a test for food allergies and had a blood cleaning system called Chelation, he first diagnosed my autoimmunity and that I have high mercury levels. He prescribed me Diotroxin, a very high dosage of vitamin C daily, Chelation three times a week, selenium and Iodine supplements as well as multi vitamins. I live in South Africa and the Medical insurances are very complicated here, so unfortunately they threw out his allergy test and everything else he was pationate about and so he left the country, because it was too expensive for patients to cover on their own and the medical insurance companies wouldn’t pay for his treatments. Since then I have been to another Dr for the last two years, who still has me on Diotroxin and he put me on anti depressants and weightloss pills called reductil, which didn’t actually do anything to help, he also put me on pre-diabetic meds called Gloucophage. I felt worse and was more tired than I have ever been, irritable, fatter, crampy, I have IBS and Gastritis, I get headaches every day too and have been very down. I then went to an endocrinologist who told me to go off the gloucophage, reductil and anti depressants because they are just supressing my hunger, which was untrue because I was hungry. I felt so demoralised, because I am not really someone who enjoys food, ever since I was a child, I haven’t enjoyed eating, I eat to stay alive and so don’t eat very much at all. When eating normally my weight was stable at 60kg’s, I am only 5ft tall, so that is overweight for me, but it was at least stable. Then at the beginning of this year my husband put a lot of pressure on me to lose weight, because I am going to be a maid of honour at the end of the year, we fought and fought and so I went on a serious diet that cut out dairy and gave me 800 calories a day, no bread or potatoes and I gained weight, I ended up weighing 76 kg’s, which put me into the obese catagory. Never mind the fact that I look like a little ball or should I say big ball, because I am so short. Then my husband and I read up on the internet how I can lose weight and we found a diet called Slender Wonder, which consists of 650 Calories a day, no milk, no carbs except for two crackers a day, two fruits and a protein shake mixed with water in the morning. I also take a whole heap of supplements and an injection of HCG hormone every day that I inject myself. The idea behind this diet is that your calories are so low and your body thinks your pregnant, so it forces your body to use it’s fat supplies. I have been on it for a week and have lost 4 kg’s already so I am now 72 kg’s, I still have 20 to lose and they say I should lose it in three months, at a huge cost though. I feel pretty good and my skin is looking so nice, no acne. I definitely have more energy, I am not supposed to be hungry because my leptin levels are supposed to kick in, I am still hungry, but I have only been on it for a week. I am hoping and praying that this will work, because I have always been tiny in height and weight and carrying around this much weight is not only humiliating and depressing, but dangerous. Thank you again for your research and your blog, I am going to take those 9 steps that you suggest, I think this diet complies with that already and the supplements, I’ll go and ask my Dr to test for infections etc… I will let you know how it goes, thank you so much.
Kind regards,
Megan
I have been told I could possibly have autoimmune hepatitis which at first they kept thinking I was drinking because my liver enzymes kept being elevated and I kept saying I don’t drink – then they tested all sort of inflammation markers and and IgG antibody which they said was a marker for autoimmune hepatitis – it’s in the 200 or 300”s I believe. Anyway I think it’s kind of funny that I’ve been trying to get a bulging disc in my lower back to heal but it’s taking forever, this is the second year and I know that’s inflammation. Could that be related at all? and what else is the IgG antibodies a marker for??
Four years ago my husband was diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis. He’s been in a flare for the past four weeks, and yesterday his new GI doctor diagnosed him with Crohn’s disease. He wants to put my husband on Remicade. I don’t know what the right answer is.
I have been diagnosed with interstitial cystitis after taking cipro for 1 year. My doctor kept prescribing me it monthly because I was prone to uti’s. Now after 1 year and a month I have endometriosis. My immune system is in terrible condition. Then I was diagnosed with IBS. I am only 19 years old and my doctor isn’t helping me much. He recommends me hormonal therapy and just says eat healthy. I am not going to do hormonal therapy because it will make me worse. I want to fix the cause not cover up the symptoms. I definitely need a cure..
Thanks,
Andrea
I suffered from PMR, asthma, allergies and an unhealthy gut. After becoming desperate with the pain and stiffness of PMR, I visited a rheumatologist and was put on Prednisone for an extended period. I did not like all the side effects and decided to take myself and my illness to the Raby Institute in Chicago. There, Dr. Hyman’s book, Ultrametabolism, was recommended to me, as well as several homeopathic remedies. As a result of changing my eating and adding the remedies, I am happy to announce that in 3 months time, I have gotten rid of all PMR symptoms, have renewed energy, have significantly reduced asthma and allergy symptoms, and have lost 14 pounds. I haven’t felt this good in years!
Thank you Raby Institute’s Dr. Dumont, and thank you Dr. Hyman.
Hi Dr. Hyman. I understand that you are not allowed to give out medical advice. Do you think it would be possible for you to refer your followers to specific books or articles related to their questions? Thank You.
Hi Jammie, thank you for your comment. We do refer people to other articles on our website when appropriate and try to write articles that are based on current issues to address the concerns people have.
Wishing you health,
Dr. Hyman Staff
This is my third attempt to write this note to you. For some reason I keep lossing this page. But am going to try one more time. My cousin referred me me to this site. He said that it sounded a lot like my problems and that I might find it interesting. I have indeed found it interesting and I will try to explain my problem. I have been to see numberous doctors and from there been referred to different doctors. Your article seems to ask the question that I can’t seem to get anyone to anyone to answer. My primary physician doesn’t even want to see me anymore due to the fact that I want to see my test results and I am not satisfied with just take another pill or lets change this med. It seems like no doctor wants to tell me what’s going on but just send me to another doctor. “Pass the buck”. I had mono as a teenager and then a couple years later had hepatitis. I have not felt normal since. I have been diagnosed with a lot of different things including as follows: asthma, chronic bronchitis, copd, pneumonia numberous times. severe sleep apnea, (had a half done sinus servery – doctor quit during surgery???), acid reflux disease, irretable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease. adhesions (scar tissue) in abdomin from tubal ligation – had surgery for that,(it only took me 5 years to convince a doctor that something was wrong, Numberous back issues including 2 surgeries on and replacing the disc at L4 & L5. Now worse than before surgery. 2 Herniated discs in neck, I have been trying not to have surgery on these. I have chronic fatigue syndrome along with fibromyalgia. Some days I can not wake up. Some days I can not walk due to inability of left leg to bear weight. Most of the time my right arm is unuseable, either my shoulder hurts too bad to move arm, or elbow or wrist. Both wrists bother me most of the time along with noticable swelling in hands. Also have pitted adema in legs a lot lately.Now in the last 2 years I’m told that my immune system is not working properly. I do not have the antibodies to fight off infection. I was just given a third phneumia vaccine in a year. My immuglobulin G, class 1 and 2 along with immuglobulin G serum are extremely low. My vitamin D is low, I’m on thyroid medication for underactive thyroid, Vitamin B12 shots, provigil to fight sleepiness and try to keep me awake, which sometimes doesn’t even work. For the last 2 weeks I have thrown up every night and had diahrea intermitantly. I have changed my diet to consist of primarily yogurt & soup. My RA doctor (RA numbers are high) has been talking about putting me gamma infusions. I literally feel like I’m dying a slow death. My balance is off, I’ve just starting getting a new kind of headache. Have had migraines for years. I’ve alway’s had low blood pressure and all of a sudden it just went higher and higher each day, so now I’m on blood pressure medication as well. Severe depression, partly due to inability to do anything. Coordination is off. Memory problems. My son and daughter have seizures along with a lot of the same problems that I have. One of my grandsons was born without proper blood platlets and still has some kind of bleeding disorder(one day his blood will clot and one day it won’t). My daughter suffers from severe constipation which is opposite of my bathroom problem. I have noticed that in the last year that sometimes my stool will be a light almost chalky color. I have to wear depends due to incontinance problem and sometimes it looks like there must be a small amount of blood in my urine. I told my new (RA) doctor that I am willing to try anything in order to get to feeling better. My psychologist say’s that I need to just accept that I can’t do the things I use to do. I can not just accept this without knowing why. This has all gotten extrememly worse since my last surgery in December. I have alway’s had problems with anesthesia and this time I was throwing up constantly for 2 day’s. Do you have any idea what I can have or what I might try in order to feel at least a little bit better? I am also on Hydrocodone and Fentanyl for pain along with a number of antidepressants and antipsycotics. A few months ago I tried to commit suicide and was in the hospital again. It seems like I have been in and out of hospitals for the last 4 or 5 years. This is no way for any one to live and is extremely frustrating. If I could just get a doctor to tell me what is going on, maybe then I could accept it. The closest I’ve gotten, is from my new RA doctor who say’s that I have at least 15 different things going on, but that we need to address my immune system first. I would appreciate any ideas, especially diet. I have cut out all fresh vegetables, tomotoes, starches, breads, nuts, seeds, dairy and spicy foods. Can you please give me any guidance or ideas as to what is going on with my body???? I think it’s just tired and shutting down. Help me please?!….
Dear Kathy,
Thank you for writing in and sharing your story. Due to the nature of your case we cannot provide you the best service over the internet. We would like you to seek the proper crae of a trained fucntional medicine practioner. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation
In good health
hi,I m hypothyroid with a history of sarcoid which was diagnosed in 2005.After that many health problems was in and out.Now i have started with pigmentation on my face(melesma). Can this be becoz of all these problems.Started with medication but can’t see any result yet.Its been 2 months since I’ve started with the treatment.Can u help.
Hi Kavita,
It sounds like you would benefit greatly from seeing a trained Functional Med practitioner to help sort out your symptoms. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation
In good health
I have stage 3 chronic kidney disease, presumed by my nephrologist to be autoimmune in nature. I have other indications of autoimmunity, though a negative ANA when tested (repeatedly) for lupus. I now have high levels of antithyroid antibodies, though TSH is in normal range. I have been tested (IgG) as reactive to gluten, corn and dairy. My mother had kidney disease, also assumed to be autoimmune in nature; she was also tested repeatedly for lupus and never specifically diagnosed. She was treated with steroids, epo, etc., and died from ESRD at 66. She was also chronically overweight (though not obese), though I am not. I have recently started on a paleo diet, and will see if I experience any relief of symptoms – to be honest, I don’t hold out much hope.
Hello,
Thank you so much for this information. This gives me hope. I knew I wasen’t crazy. I was dignosed with proctitis one year ago and even though I am not bleeding/ mucas anymore I still am so sick. I have lost alot of weight and have dark circles under my eyes. I am totally exausted and am pale. I just can’t take this anymore.
I have totally changed my diet but still dont’ feel good. I know my body can heal itself but I’m not sure where to go. I have talked to quit a lot of people, but with limited income it is hard.
Do you have any advice?
Hi Healther,
Due to the nature of your case it is best you work with a local Functional Med practitioner. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation
Start with food. How can you upgrade the quality of your diet based on the recommendations in this article? What trigger foods like dairy and gluten can you remove? Start small and take baby steps. Perhaps you might benefit from this program: http://store.ultrasimplediet.com/
In good health
Hi I have just been diagnosed with primary biliary cirrotes and i’m very sgared as everyone says there is no cure I dont want to go on any steroid ex,pls help with some posative advise thank you .
I have Celiac disease – I also am Anti-CCP antibody positive with a very high number. All my markers for inflamation were high – my fingers are swollen and bent all the time and my joints flair up daily. I am in misery. Several tests came back positive for Lupus and several for possible Sjourns. The doctor doesn’t know how to diagnose but has me on Plaquinil which isn’t working after months and long term low dose steroids which didn’t work so I have weened off of those. I have probable RA and possibly several other disorders. I am allergic to about everything in the environment and get weekly allergy shots for this. I also am allergic to wheat, corn, soybeans (all beans), Dairy ( all cow products), eggs (all chicken products), peanuts. I have asthma as well. I don’t want to take Metheltrexate but that is what they are talking about next. Do you have suggestions?
Hello Pamela, thank you for your comment. If you would like medical advice from a local practitioner of functional medicine please see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. We cannot offer advice over the Internet.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hello Dr. Hyman, Great article! I was diagnosed with posterior uveitis this past July and told I have an unidentified auto immune disorder. This affects my vision which is blurry due to swelling and cysts and unidentified spots on the eyes. I was on high doses of prednisone and am now down to 10 mg a day. I was told I should be on Celcept and possibly have predisone pulsed and maybe cortizone eye injections. I am only doing prednisone now and am frightened to death of the other drugs so I am considered noncompliant but it is seems so counter intuitive and dangerous. I became macrobiotic the end of august and began to drop weight and sleeping better and feeling better but my eye tests do not show improvement yet. I am told there is danger of vision loss if left without an immune suppressant or high doses of steroids, but no mention of cure. I am told it takes four months per macrobiotic counselors to see significant results. Anyway, I think I am in the right direction but I wish there was a functional medicine doctor in my area who truly could help. I’ve had numerous tests done and all sorts of things ruled out. I’m thinking my weight has been the trigger. Any suggestions?. My condition is never written about and I don’t believe there is much research in this area either. Thank you so much for your commitment to health. I am a psychotherapist and know the emotional piece is huge as well.
Thank you, Veronica, for your comment. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I have been diagnosed with scleraderma. I have a sonogram on my heart and test with my lungs every 6 months. My esophagus has spasms and have been given Nexium daily. I am told they will watch me and give medications if any of my symptoms worsen. I am in basic good health. I am a small, active woman with good habits. Is there hope for me, Dr. Hyman?
Thank you, Yvonne, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I have been diagnosed with Ankylosing spondylitis, positive HLA-B27. I hurt SO bad. I have flu like symptoms. Is there any hope for me? Im just so tired of hurting. I’m 45 and just starting to enjoy grand kids. What do I do??
Thank you, Julie, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Dr Hyman,
I am the “sam” to the T in your article “9 steps to heal autoimmune disease”. You could change his name to mine and have almost the same exact story. I would like to be treated in the manner in which you approached him and do not know where to turn. Can you offer any suggestions her in North New Jersey or Manhattan?
Thank you, Denise, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Hey I was researching the cures for autoimmune because sadly the way I had to hear about it was when my girlfriend told me that she had… She then explained to me how she has had it for about 7 years now and it broke my heart to have to hear what pain she went through and sadly still goes through today. I read all the cures for it an they have tried it all.. It would be a blessing if u could contact me on my email.. She has told me that the doctors don’t know what to do anymore and I’m really scared at this point. If there is anybody u know of that I could tell her family to contact who u believe is a specialist who knows something about this that others don’t please inform me. She also has limes desease if I spelled it correctly and they thought they cured it and took her off medication. I was informed about 3 weeks ago that it has come back or was not fully cured… If there is anything you can do or any further you can go with researching this I would be very thankful. My email is bigbrew1122@gmail.com if u could possibly contact me back. Thank you for what you have already discovered and please keep up the research.
Hi Clayton, we cannot offer medical advice over the internet but if you would like to speak with a practitioner of functional medicine you can check out the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website for a practitioner in your area.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
My son, only 19, has been diagnosed with auto-immune hepatitis. He had a basketball injury in Feb, and had to have surgery and crushed his hand in June and had to have surgery. Right after this he began having symptoms like dark urine stomach pains and then of course in Aug yellowing of eyes and skin. He is seeing a hepatoiigist and being treated with steriods. They are going to start him on emmurane (sp?) in two weeks.
Do steriods allow you to become sick easliy. . .I thought they were used to just shrink the liver back to its normal size. He called and now has a bad head cold and also sore throat. The thing behind it all was that he was not sick a day in his life until after had surgery. Then, his “belly” level was 17 and enzymes at 2,700.
Dr. Hyman,
Any thoughts on Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalopathy? Same criteria? Our son has been diagnosed with PANDAS and subsequently told there is no such thing. We are able to stave off his symptoms with antibiotics and advil, have gone through iVIG twice, but have no direction for finding the cause. Have been told it couldn’t be strep and he tested negative the one and only time I pushed they do a test for it.
Hello Mary Beth, thank you for your post. We cannot offer medical advice to you over the internet, if you would like to consult with Dr. Hyman or a functional practitioner for another opinion you should do that in person for the best results for your son. Here is the link: http://www.functionalmedicine.org.
Wishing you good health!
i have a 4 year old daughter who has the auto immune disease
how can i help? would a 4 year old have the symptoms you described in your article?
Hi Helga,
It is possible. Has she been tested for hashimoto’s? we recommend you first have a conversation with your Functional Medicine practitioner to provide the best care for her. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation
In good health
I have read this article & the one with isabel the ten year old with mctd.
I have the same disease. mixed connective tissue disease.
if i cut out gluten, sugar, dairy, tuna, and antibiotics could i be cured as well?
im tired of just getting medicines to fix the symptoms.
I was also really young when I was first diagnosed with this. im 19 now.
Hi april,
Thank you for writing in and sharing your story. We recommend you getting specific medical advice from a Functional Med practitioner. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
In the meantime, yes, it might be a great idea to eliminate potential allergens which are common to 40-60% of the population. The best foods to start with usually are dairy and gluten foods.
In good health
Hi Gale,
Thank you for sharing your story. We want you to get the best care to restore your health. For local practitioners of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation
In good health
Last November I was diagnosed with Addison’s Disease (primary adrenal insufficiency) and Hypothyroidism. I had been very ill for about 7 months prior to being diagnosed, been to the ER countless times and admitted to the hospital and ICU twice. It was on my last visit to the ICU that a doctor finally put the pieces together, did some tests and came up with a diagnoses. I began seeing a convention doctor (Endocrinologist) and quickly became frustrated with her lack of knowledge and unwillingness to explore the causes of continued symptoms. Since she was “treating” me in the textbook way of doing so and my thyroid labs were within normal range, she was unwilling to do anything further except write a referral to a psychologist.
I tried several more doctors to no avail. Everyone seemed to have the same approach.
I found a wonderful addison’s support forum and quickly realized that my experience with doctors was not at all uncommon. I began to see a Naturopath, who lead me to find a Functional Medicine doctor. I have an appointment with this doctor in two weeks and am really hoping to find an entirely different approach to medicine.
Thank you for the information on your site.
Hi Dr. Hyman: I appreciate the medical help online and your attitude about giving help. I have autoimmune diseases; especially, I would like help calming the alopecia areata. I just get hair growing and the circles start developing again so I haven’t had a full head of hair about 7 Years. I’ve been up and down with this for over 20 years. I also have hypothyroidism and lately have some skin problems. I am in Canada and I don’t see any functional medicine doctors here.
Hi,
I he suffered from various autoimmune conditions for many years.
sarcoid -eyes, PCD – bile ducts,inflammation in the ureta- kidney damage (right kidney), an ulcer and finally IgG4 systemic disease now affecting the other kidney. My doctors at Kings college & Guys have no answers! I have taken steroids twice.Any ideas?
Hilda
Hi Hilda,
It seems like you could benefit from the direct care of a functional med practiitioner who can look at all your symptoms and run some tests to get a clear idea of what is going on! Go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to locate a practiitoner. Enter your zip and select the best match for your needs. In the meantime, can you start making any dietary changes or experiementing with an elimination protocol like that in the Ultra Simple Diet? By avoiding gluten and dairy you can definetely make some strides with autoimmune. Try your hardest to eat as many servings of fresh, organic vegetables and fruits as well. The nutrients here can boost your immune system and give you a head start on repairing any damage to the gut. Also, take a high quality probiotic if you are not already. Most of our immune system is located in the gut so by fortifying with healthy bacteria you are fueling your immunity!
In good health
Hello Dr.
I have been diagnosed with autoimmune deficiency which in turn has stopped my thyroid from working properly so I take levothyroxine. They found my Thyroglobulin Antibodies at 1522 and Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies at 165 which is way out of range. The Doctor had to increase my dose but it is working so far but he told me I would have to continue taking this medication for the rest of my life and everyday since it killed the thyroid but I wanted to get second opinion. My TSH was above 20 to begin with and is now back to 3.26 but goal is to get it to 1.0 my doctor states. I read here about trying to find ways to stop the inflammation and that my thyroid may still be okay but is just getting attacked by my immune system and stopping it from performing normally. I do admit that I rarely get sick and probably have not been sick in years and if I feel a fever or cold coming on the symptoms disappear after like a day or so and never reach full level so my immune system is really strong according to the doctor and I don’t even need to take a flu shot which I have never had.
Let me know if it is true that my thyroid can never be normal again or if there is a possibility with other treatments to come off the medications or get the root cause under control.
Thanks for your time.
Mark
Hi Mark,
We appreciate your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work and understand the need for another opinion, To get the best care, we suggest you seek out a local functional med practitioner who follows the same medical protocols as Dr.Hyman. This way a professional can follow your symptoms in person. IWe are not able to provide you the care you need over the web… Go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org, scroll down to locate a practitioner and enter your zip. Choose a practitioner who best suits your needs,
In good health!
Lizzy
I woke up one morning with an unexplained knee problem and tennis elbow, both on my left side. After 6 months of a worsening condition I sought medical advise. My GP told me to ice it and eat Advil like it was candy. My chiropractor told me I was likely celiac and recommended I read the book Dangerous Grains. I pulled all gluten from my diet and in 24 hours realized I’d had stomach pain my entire life to that point. I subsequently discovered through trial and error that my body doesn’t process any grain or grain derivative (or dairy). The last to go was rice, and the positive effect was dramatic.
My diet now consists of organic vegetables, fruit, beans, nuts, and small amounts of meat. I have since found, and many before reading it, that all of the foods contraindicated for type Os in “Eat Right for Your Type” do in fact irritate my digestion. As long as I don’t compromise at all with food I feel fine, I sleep well, and my intestines work as they should.
Leading up to this point of good health my Chiro. had me taking GABA-Tone for a time to heal my blood brain barrier, Adrena-Calm to correct my endocrine function, lithium orotate to help with sleep, and an herbal mixture of ashwaganda, rhodiola, and Calif. poppy, each at different or overlapping times. Much of this coincides with a protacal laid out in Dr. Kharrazian’s book “Why Do I Still have Thyroid Sumptoms.”
On my own I started brewing my own kombucha and found it to give significant improvement to my joint health and to mitigate my reaction from accidental gluten exposure after only a month of consistent use (and this is after a year of ginger treatment for my trick knee and elbow that would be fine one day and sloppy the next three. I now once again frequently enjoy rock climbing and yoga at whatever difficulty level I choose to pursue).
Currently I take no supplements and generally feel well. My only frustration is watching people around me destroy their health through ignorance, stubbornness, and bad medical advise.
I spent several months in the hospital this past year due to a diagnosed rare case of an auto immune disease called Hashimoto’s Encephalopathy. It basically turned me into a vegetable, unable to walk, talk, eat or even recognize my own daughter.
Thankfully they found a doctor out of state who knew what it was and I am now on high doses of prednisone, Cellcept (an immune suppressant), and anti-seizure medications. Additionally, the prednisone turned me into a diabetic.. so am on meds for that now as well.
The side effects of the meds are killing me.
I am walking a thin line of keeping all meds balanced so I don’t end up back in the catatonic state… so am nervous about trying a new regiman and tipping my balance.
Is this something that Dr. Hyman could assist me with ?
I currently have an endocrynologist (my thyroid anti-bodies are high and the theory is they are what attacked by brain) – he does not believe this is a real disease. A neurologist.. who is basically treating the encephalopathy and my GP who is now treating my diabetes.
Thank you
Hi Pam,
Thank you for sharing your health concerns. Doctors like Dr. Hyman who practice systems biology medicine or functional medicine can often be more useful than going to several different doctors who view the different systems of our body as unrelated. We want you to get the best care and hope you check this site out for a local functional med practitioner in your neck of the woods: http://www.functionalmedicine.org Scroll down to locate a practitioner, enter your zip code and choose the practitioner most suited for your needs. We truly hope you get the care you need!
In good health,
Lizzy
I have been diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica and being treated with prednisone. Side effects are horrible–anxiety, depression,dry mouth, dry skin, etc., etc. Depression comes and goes. I have told there is no other treatment for PMR and hate the way I feel while taking prednisone. Any suggestions
Hi Patricia,
Thank you for sharing your concerns about PMR. Yes, this condition is quite uncomfortable but there are some useful tricks you can employ to help yourself feel relief. Aim for an anti inflammatory diet. Avoiding refined flours, white carbs and simple sugars, hydrogenated fats, high fat dairy and meat, alcohol and food sensitivities such as gluten can help A LOT! Ensure adequate Vit D, omega 3 fats from salmon, sardines and trout and include fiber- a lot of it! High quality nuts, seeds (especially walnuts, almonds, flax, chia, hemp, pumpkin, sunflower etc.), vegetables, whole grains, low glycemic fruits and beans and legumes are all excellent choices.
Try as best as you can to get your body moving in a form enjoyable to you- the irony is that it is hard to move right! Research shows that movement-pleasurable movement that is, actually help to decrease the inflammatory response and also decreases the perception of pain and stress.
Stay hydrated, practice calming exercises such as deep rhythmic breathing and get as well rested as you can!
Check out this book full of delicious anti inflammatory recipes: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/UltraMetabolism
In good health!
Lizzy
I’ve been reading your posts with great interest. I’m Australian but I lived for many years in India. I’ve always been highly allergic to pollen and have had chronic hayfever during spring since childhood. In India I started to develop inverted vitiligo, which a good dermatologist in India helped me to pretty much cure. Several years later, soon after returning to Australia my eyes started to puff up and i was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. The doctor put me on thyroid replacement hormone. I’ve also noticed in the last few months I’ve developed tinnitus and not sure if these are related conditions.
I’m trying to keep healthy, eating well and exercising, doing yoga and meditation, but I’m really concerned about my immune system and don’t want to head into any more problems. I’d like to understand more about how to eat properly to avoid creating more inflammatory conditions in my body and how to get my immune system into a healthy state. Hope you can advise.
Hi Louise,
Thank you for your interest in Dr.Hyman’s work. We appreciate you sharing your concerns about your immune issues. It sounds like you are doing so much to care for yourself and perhaps some tweaks in your diet can help solve some more of of your issues! Have you experimented with a hypoallergenic diet where you remove the most common food allergens such as gluten, dairy, soy, corn, yeast, peanuts as well as highly acidic foods such as refined sugars, flours, high fat meats (not grassfed or wild), too much alcohol and caffeine etc… Check out Dr. Hyman’s program to help guide you through a safe and effective diet and lifestyle detox: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/Show/Books/761/The-UltraSimple-Dietreg-Book-Kickstart-Your-Metabolism-and-Safely-Lose-Up-to-10-Pounds-in-Seven-Days
To locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health.
Lizzy
the first i was diagnosed reactive arthiritis, then some years later it became chronic arthiritis. My knee joint, ankle, toes, also my chin joint inflammed. But wrist, and finger not inflamed. Inactivity i have no pain. When disease attacs i use betametasone, anti inflammatory drug like tenoxicam, nimesulide. When remmission i dont take medicine. Please help me, what can i do? Thanks.
Hi Casur,
Thank you for sharing your concerns with arthritis. Sounds like you have been through a lot. Have you looked at how your diet influences your pain and have you noticed a difference in eating certain foods and not others? An anti-inflammatory protocol is highly recommended for auti immune diseases because it boosts the immune system. Eating a diet full of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans and legumes is helpful and offers a lot of fiber. The fiber is powerful in helping your body naturally cleanse itself in a daily rhythm. You’ll want to focus on fatty fish like salmon, sardines, herring and trout as well as pumpkin seeds, chia and help seeds, walnuts and flax oil as these offer omega 3 and 9 fatty acids which turn off inflammation. Try cutting down sugar, fkour based products, and all white foods which only exasperate inflammation and make the pain feel worse. Drink green tea, water with lemon and avoid caffeine and alcohol. Staying hydrated really can make a difference! For more on this type of eating protocol check out: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/UltraMetabolism
If your pain persists and you want the care of a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health,
Lizzy
I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis when I was 23, just after my daughter was born. At age 28, I was diagnosed with endometriosis. After having my son at 30, I developed reactive airway syndrome, which is allergy induced asthma. My endometriosis became so severe after my son’s birth, I had to have a hysterectomy, leaving me with one ovary. Soon after, I also started experiencing what I consider irritable bowel syndrome. I suffer with bloating, gas, but worst of all, if I eat out, I often have to run to the restroom within 30 minutes.
Nine years later at age 39, I had to have my remaining ovary removed. I am now 40, and over the last year, my asthma has worsened, and I have started having skin rashes on my forearms and elbows. A dermatologist tested the skin and said it was ringlet erythema. Last year, my GYN found that my Vitamin D level was 7, which is very low with the normal range being 30-80. I am on replacement. My magnesium level was also low, at 1.3 mg. I was symptomatic, complaining of chest pain. I am now enduring frequent palpitations despite taking a beta blocker to help this uncomfortable condition.
I am concerned because I feel like my doctor (and previous doctor) are ignoring what the root cause is. I know that almost everything that I have mentioned is related to autoimmune disorders. I am overweight, and eat no more than the average 40 year old woman…or less. At 5’7″ and 245 pounds, I am at my wits end. I am getting ready to start a vigorous doctoral program, and I want to know what I can do to feel better. I am going to commit to regular exercise and a healthier diet. I will start taking zinc, fish oil and any other supplement to help.
Is there any way to stop this spiraling condition?
Hi Leslie,
Thank you for writing in with your concerns about your health. Congrats on your PhD program- sounds like you will need your energy to start! The best thing you can do is an anti inflammatory diet which is hypoallergenic (often food sensitivities and allergies are at the root of inflammation related to autoimmune- especially gluten). You can follow this diet, the UltraMetabolism Diet: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/UltraMetabolism
However, we would really like you to be seen in person by a functional medicine provider. Because we cannot give you the proper care you need via the internet but do hope you receive the attention you need from a qualified practitioner soon. To locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health
Hello! Thank you so much for the information! I have been dealing with fibromyalgia for a few years and was recently diagnosed with Lupus as well. I have been working with a nutritionist who did micronutrient testing and is working with my rheumatologist to help treat and manage my issues – I also see a pain thereapist as most of my flare ups seem to stem from stress and anxiety. I do find great relief through yoga and relaxation but at times the pain is too severe. I consider myself very fortunate that my rheumatologist is open to the nutritionist and encourages me to find the solution that works for me.
Hi I m in south africa and trying to help my mom. She has sle and I m at my wits end. Her leg muscles are failing. She takes a few steps and she is tired. She is constantly in pain and fatique. Is there a functional medicine practice in south africa. Thank you
Hi Vanitha,
Check out this link and see how it works for you! http://www.functionalmedicine.org
In good health and best wishes to you and your mom.
How lucky I’d feel if I could send my son to you for appropriate check up first of all and then for the right treatment. He’s been diagnosed an autoimmune intestinal desease and is being treated with steroids (that is: they treat the simptom sonly , as You explain so wisily). He is a peace soldier and is likely to have absorbed heavy metals (heaving been around the world where depleted uranium is involved and having been inoculated too many times with many vaccinations- containing timerosal, i. e. mercury- besides being exposed to the normal risks as everybody else). He’d need a test for heavy metals’ toxicity and a proper “cleaning” treatment as a follow up, I guess, besides east/ bacteria/allergies etc. investigation, but here I don’t know where to turn and haven’t made up my mind yet about what we’ll be able to do. How to detect heavy metals and how to get rid of them? Here they say there’s no way to achieve such a goal…
I’m really glad for the knowledge you share with the world (knowing about your existence I feel less desperate in this selfish-blunt time, DR Hyman). Thanks a lot from my very heart. Bruna Spagnuolo
Thanks Bruna! We hope your son receives the appropriate care. We cannot give him the proper care you need via the internet but do hope you receive the attention you need from a qualified local functional med practitioner soon. To locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health
Dr. Hyman,
I was diagnosed with oral Lichen Planus over two years ago and have been treated with various forms of steriods to minimize the discomfort. The steroids have began to be less effective and I would like to try other alternatives before going on a full blown steroid treatment. The doctors want to treat the symtoms with no interest in fixing my immune system, but I’m afraid to proceed on my own without being under the supervision of a doctor. I was diagnosed with ITP about 12 yrs ago but was able to eliminate it completely with homeopathic methods rather than having my spleen removed, which was the doctors next step. I already exercise sufficiently, but I know I need to change my diet and begin taking herbs and vitamins. It is the herb and vitamin regiment I’m nervous about starting. I’m looking into the effects of aloe vera juice which I’ve taken in the past, but if you have any reccommendations I would be greatly appreciative.
HI Andrea,
Thank you for your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Some ideas related to diet and immunity- have you looked at any potential food allergies such as gluten? There is a strong relationship between gluten and autoimmune and it might be worthwhile to remove gluten grains from the diet for a period of time to see how you feel. Dr. Hyman’s UltraSimple Diet or UltraMetabolism are great ways to be introduced to this style of eating: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/The-UltraSimple-Diet and http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/UltraMetabolism This is a whole foods, anti inflammatory and hypoallergenic approach to food which will increase immunity. Are yo taking a probiotic? Fish Oil? Vit D? Multivitamin? For other supplement recommendations we encourage you to speak with a local functional med provider who can assess your total health history in person. . To locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health
I have psoriatic spondylitis which affects my lower spine, neck and ankles. I have classic symptms such as burning pain in my lower back in the morning, severe achilles tendonitis which takes an hour or so to loosen up in the morning, and stiff neck, hands and joints generally. When it’s really bad I often get such bad sciatica that I collpse on the floor from the red hot poker-like pain in my back and leg. Ihave been on anti-inflammatories for 4 years with no other suggestions from the rheumatologist or GP ( I live in the UK.) Over 4 years I had put on 42 lbs as I had had to stop running and my achilles tendonitis prevented me from doing exercise such as going to the gym. I was also suffering from persistent sinus problems and generally felt terrible, with infe cted toenails and the beginnings of what looked like eczema on my eyelids and hairline. Life was feeling pretty miserable!
Twelve months later and I am almost completely drug-free (1 codeine tablet in two weeks instead of 2 a day), 35 lbs lighter, and eczema- and cold-free so far this winter. So what happened?
In January this year my husband and I decided we wanted to start trying for a baby and I read that anti-inflammatories and pregnancy don’t mix so I asked the doctors about what I could try instead. One suggested codeine so I switched – at first the pain was terrible as the inflammation got worse but then the codeine started to mask the pain. About the same time I started a weight loss programme (lighter life) to get down to a healthy BMI which coincidentally cut out starchy carbs and sugar. A friend suggested I try acupuncture for my sinus and colds. And I read that vitamin D and echinacea was the best combination for fighting colds so I started taking a daily dose. And finally I saw a great NHS physiotherapist who gave me exercises for my Achilles which helped me get mobile again and then he recommended Zumba and yoga for my neck stiffness.
Imagine my surprise when I read this article today – The combination of the elements of my road to improved health are all here in Dr Hyman’s article – I just didn’t know, for example, that the vit D would be doing more than just preventing olds.
I am now going to read your work in detail, Dr Hyman, to see what else I can incorporate into my own programme and would welcome any suggestios on what else I might do for optimum health for conception and pregnancy. And for anyone who s wondering whether trying all this was worth it – I have never felt better despite the act that 12 months ago I honestly thought I would never feel well again.
This is such an irresponsible and trendy article placing the blame on the patient without any credible, double blind scientific studies backing up any of your claims. If this alternative stuff works, then it would be the standard no? Good nutrition and taking care of your health is wise, but with auto immune diseases – this is no smoking gun. Think you need to look more closely at genetics and epidemiology.
Dr Hyman,
I have suffered from MS-like symptoms for over 23 years. It started with a bladder infection when I was 21 that went away after I took anti-biotics. Then shortly after it felt like I had another bladder infection but without the burning pain. Anti-biotics did not help this time. I had frequency and some urgency and even after emptying my bladder it felt like I had to still go. The feeling of always having to go was relentless at times and was not like a normal feeling of having to go. The dr found an ovarian cyst which I had removed but this did not stop the frequency issue. During this time I also had some numbness in the pelvic area, it was only a couple of times and didnt last that long. This numbness led me to go to a neurologist after a couple of years of these bladder symptoms. Also, at 23 I had the chicken pox. Right after it cleared up I had cloudy vision in one eye. The eye dr. gave me medication (dont remember what it was) and it cleared up after maybe a few days. He never mentioned optic neuritis. He thought it was caused by the chicken pox virus. Getting back to the neurologist, he noticed a positive Babinski reflex and thought I might have MS. At this suggestion, I became very scared and depressed. I started having other symptoms like tingling and strange sensations. My MRI’s were clear. I went to Columbia Presbyterian Hospital where an MS specialist gave me a spinal tap. It was normal. I went on with my life.
Years later I had some vision issues like streakiness and I noticed one pupil was larger than the other. I also woke up in the middle of the night and my vision was somewhat distorted. My fingers looked strange–long and skinny. This lasted maybe a minute or two. This happened a few times. I also remember seeing what looked like a fuzzy tv screen. I went to the eye dr, and they didnt see anything wrong. Again, I went on with my life. I still think my vision is somewhat off.
Through the years my other symptoms have been burning and pricking sensations, night sweats, tip of one toe is always a little numb, some hearing loss, some ringing in ears, hands and feet fall asleep easily, a little numbness here and there –but it doesnt last, strange sensations in my head, tingling in many places, even eye balls, weird facial sensations, muscle twitches, arm seems to tire when it shouldnt after scrubbing floor or whisking an egg, forget words from time to time, never feel fully rested upon waking. My most recent symptoms are knee pain and inner ear pain.
I went to an MS Center in 2007. My exam indicated brisk reflexes and a sightly palor optic nerve. My MRI’s of brain and c-spine on a 3T machine with and without contrast was clear. I havent been back to the doctor for my symptoms. I have been following George jenelik’s OMS lifestyle plan since August of 2010.
My bladder symptoms were bad the first five years, on and off, and then they got much better and it doesnt bother me like it used to. I still have some frequency some days and maybe urgency from time to time, but again it really has improved.
Please let me know what you think I should do to improve my symptoms.
Thank-you.
Thank you for this very informative site. My husband has stopped listening to doctors and stopped all P and arthritis meds. He is treating himself with herbs and found his BP is down and his arthritis has eased up without the use of IBuprofen which he was advised to take three times a day.. it made him hemorrhage to the point of passing out, and he was rushed to the hospital. It was a blood bath that was diagnosed a medical mystery. No answers and no cause was found. Hospitals are frightening places at times and though some doctors do save lives I’m beginning to think they are legal serial killers.
Good read here!
Thanks
Jo
About four months ago my upperarm started hurting. Then the pain started spreading to several joints, my knees, knuckes, wrist, and feet. The pain was always on both sides of my body. I went to my doctor and she ran blood work. Tests came back positive for Parvovirus. She prescribed Meloxicam and fish oil. The pain is worse today than it was when I first went to see her. My arms hurt so bad I cannot reach up high to get things out of the cabinet. I was wondering if your advice might work for my situation. My autoimmune tests came back negative. I have seen a chiropractor previously for migraines and he ran food intolerance tests. I have several. I just really think my immune system is out of wack. It is definately attacking my joints. I guess it thinks my joints is part of the virus. Any help you can provide will be most appreciated. I called my doctor and she just upped my Meloxicam. Thanks.
Hi Michelle,
Thanks for your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. We would first say to continue with the fish oil and make sure it is a high quality company with enough EPA ( look for 600-800mg per capsule and take with breakfast and dinner). Also it might be helpful to eliminate gluten as many people working with autoimmune are struggling with food sensitivity and often fair better without gluten in the diet.
To locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health
Lizzy
Hi,
Really interesting read. I am 29, average weight, exercise regularly and generally eat well balanced diet and no serious medical conditions. I have Thalasaemia Minor which has no symptoms apart from slight fatigue. I also get mild hayfever. A family member has arthritis and another has vitiligo. About 5 months ago I discovered a small bald patch on my head-alopecia areata. I went to a Naturopath and started taking vitamin B, ppmp, folic acid & hgf. Nothing really improved so I just has my first round of cortisone injections to the scalp from my dermatologist. He told me there is no known cause and no guaranteed treatement. Can you please give me any advice on dietary changes to fix the source of the problem?
HI Mel,
Thank you for sharing your concerns about this! We cannot dispense any medical advice via the net but can surely offer you the assurance that a whole foods based diet which properly balances hormones and stimulates healthy gut function can certainly play a role in preventing or aggravating symptoms!
To locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health
Lizzy
Hello Dr.
I have been diagnosed with autoimmune deficiency which in turn has stopped my thyroid from working properly so I take levothyroxine. They found my Thyroglobulin Antibodies at 1522 and Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies at 165 which is way out of range. The Doctor had to increase my dose but it is working so far but he told me I would have to continue taking this medication for the rest of my life and everyday since it killed the thyroid but I wanted to get second opinion. My TSH was above 20 to begin with and is now back to 3.26 but goal is to get it to 1.0 my doctor states. I read here about trying to find ways to stop the inflammation and that my thyroid may still be okay but is just getting attacked by my immune system and stopping it from performing normally. I do admit that I rarely get sick and probably have not been sick in years and if I feel a fever or cold coming on the symptoms disappear after like a day or so and never reach full level so my immune system is really strong according to the doctor and I don’t even need to take a flu shot which I have never had.
Let me know if it is true that my thyroid can never be normal again or if there is a possibility with other treatments to come off the medications or get the root cause under control.
Thanks for your time.
Mark
Hi Mark,
Thank you for sharing your story with your thyroid condition and glad to hear about your immune system! While we cannot make any predictions or blanket medical statement over the net we can sure say that by following the plan outlined for thyroid function (food, supplements, exercise, relaxation, herbs, medication etc.) you can indeed control inflammation which stimulates further destruction of the gland and decreases ability to properly manufacture the hormones…
Check out this program for more info: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/Coaching-Programs
Also, if you would like another opinion… You can locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health,
Lizzy
Hi, Leslie who posted above,
Try removing gluten from your diet. I am being tested now for celiac. I don’t know if I am celiac, but I am at least gluten intolerant. I weighed 295.2 at my highest, felt awful, and nothing would budge the weight. I knew I didn’t eat THAT much. I had gained twice my weight. I’ve always had low energy, but when I went to the doc. a while back, they found very low B12 and D. I committed to gluten free (and reduced dairy), and I’ve lost 27 lbs doing nothing different but not eating gluten and I feel SO much better. I am sure I will lose more as I continue to weed out gluten and learn to live free of it and as my energy continues to build. I also had a fast pulse etc. I wish I had known before age 35 that I wasn’t just fat and lazy.
You sound a lot like me.
Oh, and I no longer feel hungry ALL the time. I believe my body was undernourished/not absorbing nutrients, and that made me eat a bit more and hold to to pounds during famine.
I encourage you to have a blood test for celiac. If it doesn’t show positive, it’s no big deal. Just cut out gluten and see. I am pretty sure that is what you’re dealing with. Check out celiac.com to find tons of people just like you.
~Lisa
Hello Dr Hyman,
I am 31 years old and have suffered from asthma and chronic sinusitis my entire life. For most of the last 30 years I have been treated with antibiotics and steroids for infections and some inhalers to help control my symptoms. Last year I had sinus surgery and honestly it seems to have made things worse. I am getting less infections but am feeling even more inflamed and irritated. My asthma, which was mostly gone, seems to have come back because I now have almost constant post nasal drip. Aside from that I am a healthy guy and am in good shape. I feel like I am always walking on eggshells to try not to get an infection because my underlying problem never goes away.
Recently I went to the Dr. and he said he thought I may have some autoimmune condition that is causing this, and that I could be treated with steroids from time to time to keep it at bay. I am really not satisfied with that. I am trying to take this into my own hands and figure out whats going on. I started doing research and taking a food diary and then recently stumbled on this article. I really don’t know where to start. I have been tested for food allergies and nothing came up. So I recently eliminated gluten and dairy from my diet in order to try to test that out (its only been a week but I don’t notice any improvement yet). Are there any other recommendations you may have for me as a path forward to find out what the real problem is?
Thanks so much for your help!
Carl
Hi Carl,
Thank you for sharing your story with sinus issues. It sounds like at the root of your case is some inflammation which definetly might be autoimmune. It could be helpful to work locally with a Funct med provider. To locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
We like that you are off of gluten and dairy as this should definelty help cool inflammation. You can also explore an anti-inflammatory diet. Have you seen Dr. Hyman’s UltraMetabolism? It is a great anti inflammatory protocol. Check it out: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/UltraMetabolism
Are you taking vitamin D, fish oil, probiotic or a multi vitamin? We would love to help you more. Check us out here for more info: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/Coaching-Programs
In good health,
Lizzy
Hello,
A big thank you to Mark and people like him that are willing to look outside of the “pharmaceutical box”.
For all fellow autoimmune disease sufferers, it takes great discipline to reach better health. The most important thing is finding yourself worthy enough to try eliminating all the things from your life and diet that can be toxic to you.
I am a 24 year old female that is trying to find an answer. Recently, i have discovered that I have the start of hashimoto’s thyroiditis. (also have two nodules on my thyroid) i went to my internist who referred me to an endocrinologist. The endocrinologist guided me through hashimoto’s and the fact that it is an autoimmune disease. a lightbulb went off in my head, when i realized the connection it might have to an autoimmune disease that i had from 2002-2008 and still flare ups once in a while. in 2002 (age 14), my gynecologist put me on birth control to regulate my period. at the same time, was the beginning of alopecia areata- that lasted until about 2008. it was alopecia areata diffusion- that started out in the back of my head with a single patch, would then enlarge and another patch would appear in the back of the head, usually a bit higher up on the right hand side. i’m not sure if this went hand in hand with the birth control, because when i got off, a year after, the alopecia stopped. once in a while, when stressed out, i feel the same burning sensation in my scalp that i got right before the hair would fall out. i usually just put on a foam that i was given and it goes away. the spots were treated with cortisone injections every month. however, the hair comes back with a bit of thinning. overall, my hair is much thinner than it was previously. today, while reading about autoimmunity, i realized that MS is an autoimmune disease. My father has this but has kept it under control with natural remedies. i know that autoimmune diseases can never go away, but i want to use all that we know today to find a way to keep it under control. i am an extremely healthy person. i am 5’4 at 105 lbs. i am a pescetarian and try to follow the beliefs in macrobiotics. i really believe it’s important to eat food that is from the earth. it just makes sense.i take a ballet class and i’m trying to get back into yoga. (time is an issue)
i am incredibly exhausted, feel very cold all the time and i am VERY thirsty. i drink tons of water and cannot quench my thirst. i’m hoping you might have an idea of what i should do- gluten free diet might be up my alley right now.
thanks,
Lauren
Hi Lauren,
Great to hear from you and hope we can provide some ideas to help you prevent more autoimmune stuff:
1. http://drhyman.com/a-7-step-plan-to-boost-your-low-thyroid-and-metabolis-776/
2. http://drhyman.com/faq/how-do-i-know-if-im-gluten-intolerant/
Going off gluten is really helpful for many people working with autoimmune and we suggest you give it a try to see if common symptoms dissipate. Let us know how you do!
If you need further assistance,
http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/Coaching-Programs
In good health,
Lizzy
Hi, I found this article really interesting. I went to see a kenisiologist yesterday and they told me that everything is functioning well eg:
Kindney, liver etc and no heavy metal or toxicicity poisoning. No food allergy or envinronmental aggrivations either.
I have felt unwell since I can remember (I am 26) so its been a very long time. I do everything I can.. I take supplements, eat a clean organic, non dairy and wheat diet.
I eat no processed foods. I use organic natrual products for my laudery and skin (bathing/showering) natrual cleaning products and also meditate, do yoga, relaxation, walking and creative therapies too.
I was told yesterday that my immune system is attacking itself due to incorrectly programming after long term stress from trauma from a few events from around the age of 10 to 13 years.
I understand that all the healthy lifestyle changes that I make have little impact on my immune system as they cannot be recognised until my immune system is working properly.
I have always had ashtma, eczema, colds, chest infections and impertigo often up to 3 times a month. I have stopped taking antibiotics where I can as they resolve the problem for a few days then its back and I have to take them again.
Then I know I’m poisoning myself, so now I sit with the illness unless it gets so bad I have to take the tablets.
I know my immune attacks come from psycological events but I have accepted these problems and re programmed my mind. I have forgiven and moved on from thoes issues.
But I have now discovered they are rooted deep in my body, as deep as my dna the kenisiologist said!
So I want to ask if anyone knows how to heal these deep layers of the body as I have got so much better in my head I thought I was there with recovery, now it seems I’m just at the first hurdel!
I’d like to know how the body can heal trauma as I really do feel I have processed the psycological effects to a good coping level. Its dealing with the impact of long term stress, adrenaline and trauma on the deep levels of the physical body.
Any help or advice will be researched and apreciated. I’m in bristol uk, thanks Katya.
I have a 4 year old daughter who has Celiac Disease. Since she was diagnosed with Celiac a couple years ago she has had pain in her toes on and off. The pain typically happens at night before bed or when she sits in her car seat and appears to be excruciating at times. After speaking to two different neurologists they basically told us that since she already has an auto-immune disease that she is more likely to develop other auto-immune diseases. They said that the pain in her toes are likely to be caused by neuropathy and that there is nothing they can do to make it stop, except for prescribing a medicine called Neurontin that she would take daily for the rest of her life. According to the Neurologist it may or may not help. She also suggested that the neuropathy could get worse and begin to move up her leg. Worse case scenario being that she wouldn’t be able to walk. I am concerned about giving my 4 year old a medication daily and the side effects it could have on her body long term. I’m just curious after reading your post if your suggestions could possibly help the neuropathy she is experiencing in her feet. Thank you for your help.
~ chris
DR HYMAN ,I HAD A BAD FLU SHOT IN 1998. I WAS TREATED WITH PLASMAPHORISIS AT THOMAS JEFFERSON HOSPITAL. I HAVE NO SYMPTOMS LEFT,BUT NOW ON DIALYSIS DUE TO HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE HIGH URIC ACID LEADING TO KIDNEY FAILURE. I AM NOW WAITING FOR A KIDNEY TRANSPLANT. I AM NOT DIABETIC. WONDERED WHAT YOU THINK I SHOULD DUE TO HELP HEAL MYSELF. SINCERLY, SHERYL
Hi Sheryl,
Thank you so much for sharing your health story with us. It seems that you could really benefit from an anti inflammatory diet. One like this balances your blood sugar which is often helpful when the kidneys are compromised… Also, this type of eating helps control sodium, a huge benefit to the dialysis work. Monitoring your stress is huge as well! Check this out for some ideas: http://drhyman.com/blog/video/diabesity-tip-3-balance-blood-sugar-by-relaxing-2/
See this book for how to eat the Ultrametabolism style: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/UltraMetabolism
In good health!
Lizzy
HI I am 46 yrs old and have had lichen sclerlosis for about 30 yrs. I have days that I don’t think I will get through sometimes, very suicidal. Three yrs ago I was diagnosed with celiac and I thought that would change things for me but it didn’t. I don’t have a normal life, I hate my life and this condition. There is nothing that any doctor has done that has helped. Please, please, please someone help me.
Dear Pj,
Thank you for sharing your story with us. Our hearts go out to you and your pain. Have you worked with a practitioner who specializes in gut (digestive) wellness? Most conditions of autoimmunity can be helped by decreasing the inflammatory process and a great place to start is by healing imbalances in the gut. For starters, we recommend an anti-inflammatory diet which will start to hush the flames of inflammtion and prevent further destruction. Second, have you been on a high quality, strong probiotic? We would recommend you try: http://store.ultrawellnesscenter.com/Store/List/Probiotics
For more nutrition assistance please feel free to check us out: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/Coaching-Programs
In order to provide you the proper care you need we hope you will seek the attention of a local qualified Functional Med practitioner soon. To locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health!
Lizzy
PJ, do not take the advice of an anti-inflammatory diet lightly. I have had mild cases of oral Lichen Planus foe years but just recently it reared it’s head and I was left with a serious problem in my mouth. It freaked me out and I started getting other auto-immune symptoms as well.
So, I read and read and read. I investigated the blood type diet ( http://www.terrywahls.com/. ) , read everything about autoimmune diseases that I could (mostly online) and listened to this women who cured herself of multiple sclerosis, another autoimmune disorder.
http://www.terrywahls.com/
I started following the blood type diet for my type (which is,for all intents and purposes, an anti-inflammatory diet), and now, one month later, I am almost free from symptoms. Every person responds differently to foods, and even if you are not allergic, your immune system may still have cause to raise a fight with it. This is what I now understand when I make my food choices. You can do this! You are sick and tired of feeling so terrible all the time so I know you are motivated.
It may not be easy, but it’s easier than feeling like crap all the time, eh? Granted, you are coming from years of autoimmune, but I bet in three months time, with religious fervor, you could start tao see this thing turn this around. This is something you can do for yourself and not have to depend on anyone else.
I don’t mind if you contact me directly by email. Schpinkle@yahoo.com
Read, PJ, read, read, read! And if you already are, then read more!
Good luck to you.
Darn it. I put Terry Wahls URL in where I wanted the blood type diet link.
Here is the correct link.
http://www.dadamo.com/program.htm
Carol
I have several autoimmune disorders. It’s been a long road, tests, medicines treating symptoms, more tests, organ failures, more tests, more medicines treating symptoms … frustration, time, money wasted. I keep getting worse instead of better.
It attacks my skin, my joints, my digestive system, my other organs … the exhaustion and pain are usually difficult to handle.
My face has the butterfly rash; I was diagnosed with raynaud’s syndrome; my small intestines had damage; my gall bladder was damaged and had to be removed – no stones – it just stopped functioning and showed damage; my kidneys, lungs, heart, stomach, liver, adrenal glands, etc are damaged. I suffer very low blood pressure; my skin blisters; I’m exhausted all the time and have become depressed due to all this.
It’s a long story, but I’ve been having flares since my first at age 17 when I was bedridden for 4 months. They said I had mono, but no one I knew who had mono was bedridden for 4 months, and I think I was misdiagnosed. Just my personal belief.
This last flare has lasted 4-5 years.
I’m going to look into trying your methods. Thank you!
I went blind in my left eye and the Dr’s just keep telling me that something is attaching my immune system, there’s something in my body that doesn’t like me – they’ve done several tests and everything has come back negative, now it is affecting my right eye – I don’t know where to run for help – do you have any advice? Thanks so much!
I have dealt with “gut” issues pretty much as far back as I can remember. I was told from about age 20 that I had IBS. In 2005 I was dianosed with crohn’s disease with disease in my colon. I have been on every single medication to include Remicade, Humira and Cimzia and recently had resection surgery 8 months ago only for the disease to be flaring again! I am at my wits end! I have tried changing my diet as I know that dairy bothers me if I consume more than just a little, sugar has always been an issue (carbs!) but I have crohn’s with constipation motility issues with alternating diarrhea so I am not the A-typical crohn’s patient which makes it more challenging.
I don’t know where to turn at this point – my doctors are going to try me on Cimzia again but I know it will not work! Surgery obviously didn’t work. Even if they remove my colon since I have crohn’s I feel it will most likely take over in my small bowel, etc. so what do I do???
I love all the info on this site. But one thing is driving me crazy. If the fake Dr. in the comments is never going to answer a question maybe the site should just close the comments.
Hi Ann,
Please see your email. Thank you for your patience,
Lizzy
Nutrition Coaching Program
In 1999 I was diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis – painful bladder/frequency.
I was put on a low carb,low acid, no sugar,whole foods diet by a smart nutritionist – which helped somewhat.
Over the years the symptoms have been mild to severe. I have been to most alternative treatments – none have solved the issue.
Stress has come and gone – and it doesn’t seems to be a direct link ( I can be under extreme stress and be mild to none …likewise be quite relaxed and be in pain…)
I eat well..supplement…exercise…try to be happy/positive….for naught.
I am in advertising…but I am taking the IIN course this year and just finished the module by Dr. Mark Hyman – and loved it!! But also saw that everything to reduce inflammation, I am basically doing.
After about 18 months of mild symptoms…I am now in a bad flare and quite discouraged…was it the beet I added into the last juice I made? Seasonal allergies? Hidden stress?? See my issue?
Advice?
I live about an hour from Lenox and would love to be seen, but I am concerned that it would be more of the same of what I am currently doing.
Is this truly auto-immune or a ‘headache in the pelvis’ or hormonal…or emotional…or dietary…??
Have you had success with other IC patients?
Many thanks!
Susan
Hi Susan,
Our sympathies go out to you. You surely have been through a lot and seems like you still are experiencing much discomfort. As you can imagine, we cannot diagnose via this forum but can assure you that the functional medicine paradigm of medical treatment is extremely thorough and detailed. I think it might be a great experience for your personal health and your career to visit the UWX in Lenox and experience the care firsthand.
Have you explored food allergies…gluten…dairy? To what extent is your diet anti inflammatory and inclusive of adequate omega 3 fats?
For a personalized nutrition plan, please see:http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/Coaching-Programs The nutrition coaches would be glad to help explore your diet and pinpoint any nutrition deficiencies.
In good health!
Lizzy
Excellent post. I used to be checking constantly this blog and I am impressed! Very helpful info specially the last part
I take care of such info a lot. I was looking for this certain information for a long time. Thanks and good luck.
I have been disabled since 2001, but many of my health problems go back to infancy. I have a long list of disorders and the list is growing. I have autoimmune disorders, definitely complicating treatments. I have made progress, but where there is progress, there is an alternate change, other body systems get worse. I am fortunate to have found an internal medicine physician who specializes in getting to the root of people’s problems by changing their nutrition, etc. I was referred to her by a surgery group after I was turned down for a procedure due to the autoimmune disorders.
I had over 25 allergies per allergist’s testing etc. I avoided those foods and was able to resolve that issue. I have changed the way I eat entirely. That has cleared up most of my skin problems and has changed a lot of my blood tests. It has not caused weight loss (but I haven’t gained either), but I now have more severe colon problems. I have focused on what I can do to eliminate inflammatory disorders per my doctor and her nutritionist.
I have researched and found commonsense doctors like Dr. Hyman that I can learn from online. I cannot afford to see doctors like him, so I am glad he does make some information available.
Hi just a note to say what a rollercoaster ive been on,My bloods just come back to say i have an autoimmune system, plus something in my eyes called uvietis this is also attached to rheumatoid arthritus,thus going to a rheumotologist in 3 weeks time.Story began 5 weeks ago i was gardening as this is what i do for a living.I got tagged by a rose thorn it went straight through my glove and into my knuckle.2 weeks later pains in my legs, i dismissed this and carried on ,Then my hips started to hurt i carried on .Then 2 weeks ago my joints took me out , very painful from being healthy 3 weeks ago now i couldnt walk , Very fatigued slept loads , then my neck had lumps in it headaches, jaw hurt and then my eyes .Was first given anti fungas drugs then still so ill back to doctors where blood tests reavealed that my immune system was playing up so to my liver.Pain in my eyes were so much i had to go to hospital for my eyes ,where it was found i had uveitis possibillity i may loose some sight.Update at this moment im on steroids for my eyes but nothing for my body, i dont want to stay on steroids if they give them me i would like to try other means,Would this thorn have anything to do with what has happened to me ,as its still in my knuckle Thanks for your time Mandy
Hi Dr. Hyman,
I’m a second-year medical school student, in the beginning stages of what I believe to be an auto-immune disease – based on high levels of stress, transient peripheral neuropathy, and joint pain. I’m glad I found your site, and your suggestions – I’m going to give them a try, and see how I do.
Much obliged!
Curt
Dr. Hyman
I have wrote once before, but I have to tell you how BIG of BLESSING you have been to me!
I have been struggling to say the very least the last 3 years! with my health. I have developed acute asthma, and had severe bronc. and allergies SMOKE IS MAJOR FOR ME { PEOPLE WHO SMOKE OR FIRES}. I have been place on numerous asthma meds, and have went into the er many times to get neb treatments, also have taken many steroids, and antibotics. Also have had many xray’s, and breathed in radioactive material to check for blood clots, With all the meds I was have major side effects to the point of not being able to get out of bed with weakness, not being able to breathe, and tremors, sweats,{ i felt as if i was dying} when I would go to my dr.’s they would tell me that i was not having side affects to the meds, and that I will have to live like this.
I began praying for the Lord to show me how to regain my health. And that is when I was woke in the night to watch PBS and you were there, and you spoke about Asthma, and all your other wisdom,
I removed all dairy, sugar, flour, animal products, from my diet, and now I am eating salads daily, with a wonderful green juice made from , kale, spinach,broc, 
I have not had to use my asthma meds for almost 4 weeks, 
my strength has been sooo wonderful, I can’t believe how much better I feel! You have given me my health{LIFE} back! I am blessed with 6 amazing blessings {3 boys&3girls} and they can’t believe their mom is feeling better~ 
) they all were soo worried about me, and now they have had that burden lifted:) THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!
I am having trouble finding a vit. that i should take, and the supplements, would you recommend something for extreme hair loss.?
Thank you soo much for all you are doing ! I am going to get this info to all my dr.’s I have along list~
Many Blessings~ tausha
Blessedmommyofhalfdozen
I have been suffering from autoimmune diseases most of my life but did not know what it was until a couple of years ago when the symptoms got worse. At first the doctors thought I was a nut case because I looked so young and healthy. Even though I was recently diagnosed with Asthma, severe pollen allergies, Hoshimoto’s, and had low white cell counts and all the blood markers for Lupus. I had a terrible stinging burning rash and was starting to react as if I was allergic to a lot of food.
I have always eaten healthy and have always been fit and active, but I noticed when I consumed more carbs and sugars for a few days in a row my symptoms got worse, much worse. And when I layed off the carbs and sugars for a few days my symptoms started to lesson. But when I told my doctors this they looked at me as if I had said Aliens were trying to heal me. I felt like such and idiot.
I have since been diagnosed with Sjogrens also and now have support and concern from the doctors for all my symptoms but the only thing that they can offer if my symptoms get worse is medicine with too many bad side effects.
So I am now on a very low carbohydrate and very low sugar adventure and it is not easy but it seems to be the only thing that actually works.
Hi Dr. Hyman,
I am a 32 year old woman and was diagnosed with sjogren’s syndrome last year. Before I was diagnosed, I spent 3 years trying to get to the root of my problem. Around 27 I started having extreme fatigue at very inconvenient times, rashes on my face, head, neck and underarms. The skin around my eyes would burn for no apparent reason and began to get darker. I had worsening eczema on my right hand, all over deep body pains, swollen legs, a puffy face and weight gain. I had worsening depression, hair loss and anxiety as well. By the time I hit 32 I felt like I had aged 50 years. It wasn’t until I told my doctor that I had a lot of tooth decay that she thought to test for sjogrens. I’ve been on plaquenil for a year now and most of my symptoms have leveled off. I’ll have a flare up every once in a while which mostly consists of fatigue and body pains.
My concern is that my rheumatologist says I need to stay on this medication for the rest of my life. I get tested every 6 months and see the dentist every 3 months and already take an anti depressant for depression and panic disorder. (a condition I’ve had since high school) The idea of being on medications scares me, especially with all the side effects.
I will ask my doctor to run the tests you suggest and see what happens but I don’t know where to start when it comes to nutrition and diet. My rheumatologist is very nice but I’m not sure she knows much about “Functional Medicine” I’d love to know if you have any suggestions for me or any links for further info.
Thanks so much,
Amber