Unlocking Wellness: Why Managing Chronic Conditions Needs More than Just Diet and Lifestyle Changes with Dr. Bexi Lobo

October is Dysautonomia Awareness Month. Dysautonomia refers to issues with the autonomic nervous system, which controls vital functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. These invisible illnesses can significantly affect daily life, yet many people don’t know much about them.

Common triggers for dysautonomia include COVID-19, Sjogren’s disease, and diabetes. The most well-known type is postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Unfortunately, many patients struggle to get proper care, often finding their symptoms dismissed as anxiety or wrongly categorized as functional neurological disorder.

This lack of recognition is all too common for those with conditions like Sjogren’s and other invisible illnesses. People dealing with these struggles often feel lost. They fight for appropriate treatment but may face skepticism from healthcare professionals. The wealth of myths surrounding these conditions can leave patients feeling unsupported and ashamed.

Without adequate medical guidance, many feel compelled to seek alternative solutions. This desperation can make them vulnerable to wellness scams offering expensive treatments that promise to solve their issues. However, these often don’t deliver what they claim. For instance, a functional medicine practice might promote a program that addresses “root causes” of Sjogren’s, despite the reality that no one fully understands what causes the disease.

In fact, Sjogren’s disease can lead to serious complications if not monitored by a knowledgeable rheumatologist. Lifestyle changes and diets can help, but they are not substitutes for professional medical care.

Autoimmunity arises from a mix of genetic and environmental factors, which complicates treatment. While improving stress, nutrition, and sleep can make a difference, they won’t eliminate the underlying problem. For dysautonomia or other autoimmune conditions, both medical supervision and lifestyle adjustments are crucial for managing health effectively.

Nutrition plays a significant role in overall well-being. Our bodies need a variety of nutrients for optimal functioning. While whole foods are beneficial, supplements can help fill nutritional gaps—if used carefully. Many supplements lack proper regulation, which means they might not contain what they promise. This can lead to adverse health effects and interactions with medications.

Gut health is also important. The gut is a complex system regulated by the autonomic nervous system. Problems in this system can cause various issues, contributing to nutrient deficiencies. While a balanced diet and proper supplementation can aid recovery, they shouldn’t overshadow the critical need for medical care.

Living with chronic diseases is challenging, especially when they are not widely understood. Yet it’s essential to remain vigilant and informed. Ultimately, managing your health means doing your research and being cautious about what you choose to believe and invest in.

If you or someone you know is facing these issues, proper medical support is vital. For more detailed information about Sjogren’s and dysautonomia, visit Sjogren’s Advocate or the Dysautonomia International website.

Understanding and addressing these conditions is key to reclaiming control of one’s health.

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