For years, I have been suffering with a host of complaints and have basically been told I am a crazy hypochondriac, despite medically documented history. Yesterday, an endocrinologist told me I have polyglandular autoimmune syndrome with type 1 immune mediated diabetes, Hashimotos’s thyroiditis, Sjogren’s syndrome. I have vitiligo, recurring mouth sores, and terrible hair loss, and have suffered episodes of very “hot” iritis in the past. I spent last week suffering from diarrhea and the worst rash ever.
The dermatologist said he thought it was related to autoimmune causes. I am also a celiac. Last November, I started a gluten-free vegan diet. I’m being tested tomorrow for adrenal insufficiency. My doctors offer me no help or encouragement. I’m weary and desperately want help. Any advice for me?
Autoimmune disease means your white cells that are supposed to offer you protection from foreign viruses and bacteria have decided that your own cells are the enemy. In your case this includes your iris, beta-cells in your pancreas, thyroid, hair, and possibly skin.
You will probably need to see an alternative medicine physician who has a lot of experience and not a simple answer from me online.
There is hope for you! We see autoimmune disease reverse with aggressive toxin removal, triggering virus/bacteria/toxic metal avoidance or removal, low dose naltrexone. You will likely require extensive laboratory evaluation to find some of the triggers. But don’t give up.
When your body reacts, it is telling you things. Some of your symptoms may have emotional triggers, or unresolved past experiences or insults to the body that manifest as disease. Others may be allergies to foods, lotions, allergens in the air or soil or water. Learn to listen; ask yourself what is triggering the reactions, and make adjustments.
My doctor says I can get all the vitamins and minerals I need from my food. What is your opinion on this?
I used to say the same thing to my patients, back in the days before I studied healthy alternatives. It is the party line of allopathic medicine, although that is starting to change. Here's the bottom line, and I'll follow up with some info on what allopaths are now doing:
4 responses so far ↓
1 Barbara // Jul 1, 2010 at 7:45 am
I just finished reading “The Gluten Connection” by Shari Lieberman. She talks about the reaction to foods and that you might develop many food sensitives from eating gluten as Dr Gardner mentioned in his daily health tip. This book might give additional help. Check your library for a copy.
2 Janet // Jul 1, 2010 at 11:13 am
Also, I am suggesting that she may have some Candidiasis as well. A book I would suggest is “Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, and Environmental Illness”. Though the title sounds like it may not be about what she has, there are many references to doctors and other sources who may be able to help her. If she lives at all close to Salt Lake City area (Draper), I would suggest she see Hugo Rodier, M.D., who is skilled in treating illnesses with nutritional approach, plus other alternative means.
His phone number is listed in Draper. Hope that helps.
3 Dave, RN // Jul 1, 2010 at 12:19 pm
I can’t say being a vegan helps matter any. A, D, E, and K are all fat soluble. What is your source of fat? And if you haven’t already, you should try stopping all grains. Basically follow a more “paleo” eating style. It’s done wonders for me.
4 Dr. Stan Gardner // Jul 5, 2010 at 10:35 am
Barbara, Janet, Dave, Thank you for your collective insight. Many minds will always be better than a few.
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