07/23/2023
Although symptoms can vary depending on the type of nervous tissue being attacked, we see common symptoms among all types of neurological autoimmunity.
Most patients complain about brain fog, loss of brain endurance, inability to concentrate or think, depression, and fatigue. This is because autoimmunity in the brain creates brain inflammation. When the brain is ""on fire,"" communication between neurons and general brain function suffers, causing these symptoms. I talk more about this in my book Why Isn't My Brain Working?
With silent or reactive autoimmunity, the first and most important thing to screen for is gluten sensitivity and cross-reactivity. Aspartame, MSG, and other dietary neurotoxins should be avoided. A diet high in essential fatty acids (fish, raw nuts and seeds, olive oil, avocado, etc.) and supplements to support neuron health should be considered.
Neurological autoimmunity can be devastating and insidious. Because the brain is so wonderful at compensating for dysfunction, symptoms may not become noticeable until the damage is significant. However, the good news is that the brain can compensate for neuron loss to autoimmunity by developing more efficient communication with the remaining neurons.
