Autoimmune Conditions
At ZWM, we seek to uncover and treat the root causes behind immunological imbalance rather than simply employing a band-aid approach. Environmental toxins, heavy metals, chronic infections, and leaky membranes- can all be contributing to the pathogenesis of autoimmune conditions. Through advanced diagnostics, our team can effectively pinpoint and treat the root causes.
What is Autoimmunity?
According to the medical literature, autoimmunity is a phenomenon where the immune system becomes hyperactive and targets the person’s own cells, tissues, and/or organs. There are multiple theories as to the pathological mechanism behind autoimmunity including: molecular mimicry, leaky gut priming the immune system with otherwise harmless antigens, high levels of systemic inflammation, and/or hidden toxins/pathogens embedded within cells and tissues. In autoimmune conditions, autoantibodies are created which then target and damage specific bodily tissues.
Autoimmune Conditions We Treat
An autoimmune condition also known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) occurs when the immune system targets the host’s own healthy tissues. This immunological response can cause damage to several organs and tissues such as the skin, joints, heart, lungs, and kidneys. Its hallmark sign is a butterfly shaped rash across the cheeks and nose.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune cells produce autoantibodies that target its own thyroid gland. Due to the damage that occurs to the thyroid gland, the thyroid gland becomes hindered in its functions, resulting in hypothyroidism.
Grave’s Disease in an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland. In this condition, the body produces autoantibodies against the thyroid gland. When these antibodies attack the thyroid gland, the gland produces excessive active thyroid hormone, resulting in a state of hyperthyroidism.
Multiple Sclerosis, or MS, is an autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system. The immune system targets the myelin sheath around nerve fibers, resulting in vision impairment, difficulty walking, bowel and bladder incontinence, etc.
Rheumatoid Arthritis, RA, is an autoimmune condition characterized by painful inflammation and swelling of the inner lining of the joints known as synovium. Additionally, chronic RA can cause systemic and/or organ damage including the skin, heart, lungs, nerves, and eyes.
Both Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are categorized as autoimmune inflammatory bowel diseases. In these conditions, the immune system targets different sections and tissues of the gastrointestinal tract.
Autoimmune
Root Cause Analysis
Immunological dysfunction known as autoimmunity can be attributed to a host of underlying infections and/or toxins that incite inflammation and disturb proper immunological balance.
pesticides & herbicides
heavy metals
leaky gut
chronic stress
gi parasites
Lyme & Tickborne infections
industrial chemicals
gut dysbiosis
mold & mycotoxin illness
Diagnosing Autoimmunity: Testing
We diagnose autoimmune conditions comprehensively at Zimmermann Modern Wellness. We look at key autoimmune and inflammation biomarkers to assess if autoimmunity is present. Once autoimmune markers are confirmed, we conduct a root cause analysis to determine why immunological imbalance is occurring. Root causes of autoimmune disorders can include: stealth infections, chronic untreated infections, lyme and tickborne illness, mold and mycotoxin illness, leaky gut, microbiome imbalances, heavy metal burden, and/or high exposure to environmental toxins.
At Zimmermann Modern Wellness, we utilize the latest and most accurate autoimmune labs to ensure proper diagnosis for our patients. Some of these labs include:
- Autoimmunity Biomarkers (Anti-nuclear antibody (ANA), Rheumatoid Factor, Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody, and several auto-antibody labs
- Inflammation Biomarkers (C-reactive protein, ESR)
- GI MAP Stool Culture including Zonulin
- Vibrant America Tickborne Panel
- Vibrant America Mycotoxin Panel
- Doctor’s Data Heavy Metal Urinalysis
Our Treatment Superstars
Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation therapy can be incredibly beneficial for certain autoimmune conditions by lowering inflammation, modulating the immune response, neutralizing harmful microbes, and optimizing blood circulation.
IV Phosphatidylcholine and/or the PK protocol is beneficial in many autoimmune conditions as it effectively repairs damaged cellular membranes. This therapy also helps eliminate stored toxins which may be a root cause in an autoimmune condition.
IV Glutathione, the master antioxidant is vital for cellular longevity, free radical neutralization, and inflammation management. This helps greatly in autoimmune conditions by lowering inflammation and preventing damage.
Naltrexone in very low doses has proven effective in managing autoimmune symptoms. It has shown a modulating effect on the immune system by supporting T regulatory cells. These specialized immune cells maintain immune system balance.
Certain herbs and homeopathic solutions may be beneficial in autoimmune conditions by re-calibrating the immune system. Additionally, this form of treatment may target the underlying causes behind immune overdrive.
Acupuncture can be helpful in managing the symptoms of autoimmune conditions by engaging the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy blood circulation.
Are you ready to begin your journey to wellness and feel your best?
Reach out to our team at Zimmermann Modern Wellness to get your personalized treatment plan today.