Rates of autoimmune disease are skyrocketing. Unfortunately, conventional medicine struggles to manage these conditions even with all of the medications that are prescribed. Naturopathic Medicine gives you an alternative approach.
Immune dysfunction is at the core of many disease states. Sadly, autoimmune diseases often present in groups. Patients with one autoimmune disease are more likely to develop another autoimmune condition especially if the root cause of the autoimmunity is not addressed. Treatment is a combination of supporting the immune system while simultaneously calming down the autoimmune cascade. Successful treatment begins with understanding the root cause and progressively working towards optimal health.
Autoimmune disorders are something that Dr. Branson screens for when indicated. Many of her patients present with vague and pervasive health concerns that she ends up diagnosing with autoimmune conditions, as some autoimmune issues can be non-specific they are commonly overlooked or misdiagnosed. If you already have a diagnosed autoimmune issue, Dr. Branson can help you improve your overall health with naturopathic supplements, gut healing protocols, dietary changes and immune system balancing. No matter where you are in your autoimmune journey, Dr. Branson is happy to explore holistic treatments with you, and can work side by side with your current medical team. She is focused on helping you achieve the best possible health.
Hashimoto’s ThyroiditisThe symptoms associated with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis can change over time. Initially it can present itself as an overactive thyroid gland later progressing to hypothyroidism. Antibodies attack the thyroid gland ultimately resulting in decreased function. The autoimmune component of this disease requires further evaluation. A full patient history is needed to detail disease onset and concurrent autoimmune conditions like Celiac’s need to be ruled out. Dr. Branson will evaluate all factors impacting your thyroid function and provide a detailed plan to help you feel your best!
Grave’s DiseaseGrave’s is an autoimmune condition resulting in an overactive thyroid gland. Disease triggers include but are not limited to: infection, stress, heavy metals, corticosteroid withdrawal, iodine excess, or pregnancy. Effective treatment is dependent on the identifying and addressing the disease trigger.
Rheumatoid ArthritisRheumatoid arthritis is a progressive disease that can cause irreversible joint damage. RA has a strong genetic component, but not every person with the genetic predisposition develops the disease suggesting that environmental factors play a role. Hormonal imbalance, infection, heavy metals, food allergens, and dysbiosis can trigger and even accelerate RA. An anti-inflammatory organic nutrient dense diet is the foundation for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Some patients also benefit from short term or intermittent fasting. Learn more about what is causing your RA and how you can manage it with diet and lifestyle.
Crohn’sCrohn’s is a non-specific chronic autoimmune inflammatory bowel disease. Risk factors include smoking, oral contraceptive, antibiotic use, gut pathogens, standard American diet, and genetic mutations. Most patients are diagnosed as teens or young adults and can develop concurrent diseases as a result of the chronic nutrient malabsorption.
CeliacCeliac’s is an intestinal malabsorption caused by a sensitivity to gluten/gliadin protein. Treating celiac’s is not as simple as avoiding gluten. Gluten is everywhere – 90% of US foods contain gluten and eating out can feel nearly impossible. The gluten sensitivity is highly reactive. A Celiac patient can react to gluten dust or from licking a postage stamp that contains traces of gluten. Extensive patient education coupled with rigorous immune support is just the start of patient care with regards to Celiac’s.
Ulcerative ColitisUlcerative colitis comprises nearly half of inflammatory bowel disease. It is characterized by attacks of cramping bloody diarrhea. Surgical removal of the rectum or colon is a common treatment for UC, but surgery is not considered curative. The inflammation of this chronic disease must be managed and naturopathy offers solutions.