Tag Archive for: PANDAS

Podcast Spotlight: Cristina McMullen on Integrative Lyme Solutions 

Longevity Health Center’s Bioenergetic Practitioner Cristina McMullen recently sat down with Dr. Michael Karlfeldt, host of the Integrative Lyme Solutions podcast, for an in-depth discussion on pediatric neuroimmune conditions and integrative healing.

In this compelling conversation, Cristina dives deep into PANS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) and PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections), shedding light on how these often-misunderstood conditions intersect with Lyme disease and chronic infections.

Understanding the Root of Complex Pediatric Symptoms

Children with PANS or PANDAS can experience sudden and dramatic changes in behavior, mood, cognition, and physical health. Cristina explains why these symptoms are frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked and how infections such as Lyme, strep, and other immune triggers can play a central role in driving neuroinflammation.

Drawing from her own professional journey, she shares the realities of diagnosing and treating these complex conditions, especially when conventional approaches fall short. Her insights offer both clarity and validation for families navigating confusing and often overwhelming healthcare paths.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

This jam-packed episode offers practical, actionable information, including:

  • Key symptoms and red flags of PANS and PANDAS
  • The role of infections, including Lyme disease, in triggering neuropsychiatric symptoms
  • How immune dysfunction and inflammation impact the developing brain
  • The use of bioenergetic testing to uncover hidden stressors
  • Integrative treatment strategies, including herbal and natural remedies
  • Why individualized care is essential for meaningful recovery

Cristina emphasizes a whole-child approach that looks beyond symptoms to address underlying immune and infectious drivers, offering a roadmap rooted in both science and compassion.

A Message of Hope for Families

Perhaps most importantly, this episode delivers something every parent and caregiver needs: hope. Cristina shares why recovery is possible and how the right combination of testing, treatment, and support can help children regain their health and quality of life.

If you’re a parent, practitioner, or advocate seeking deeper understanding of PANS, PANDAS, and their connection to Lyme disease, this episode is a must-listen.

Tune in on Apple Podcasts     Listen on Spotify      

The complex world of Lyme disease and PANS/PANDAS

In this episode, our very own Bioenergetic Practitioner Cristina McMullen shares her two decades of experience helping children and adults heal from tick-borne infections through holistic, individualized care.

Together, show host Ann Desjardins and Cristina dive into the complex world of Lyme disease and PANS/PANDAS. They discuss the importance of building immune resilience in children, emphasizing that despite potential exposure to pathogens like Lyme disease, children can be protected and empowered to lead healthy lives. You’ll hear success stories of patients who recover from chronic health conditions and thrive academically. Cristina also stresses the need for education and preparation rather than fear, encouraging outdoor activities while teaching practical measures to handle potential infections.

This is an important episode as children are the hardest hit population when it comes to Lyme and tick-borne illness, and they experience a litany of symptoms related to their cognitive abilities which could derail their academic life, as well as their physical health permanently if left undiagnosed and untreated. PANS/PANDAS is something that often accompanies tick-borne illness so being informed and aware is crucial.

Tune in to hear how families can replace fear with empowerment, helping kids stay healthy, active, and thriving both physically and mentally. 

Tune in on Apple Podcasts     Listen on Spotify       Watch on Youtube