Autoimmune Condtions
A Functional Medicine Approach to Autoimmune
Autoimmune diseases affect hundreds of thousands of people in Ireland and they are on the increase globally on a yearly basis. There are over 120 different types of auto-immune diseases including Psoriasis, Lupus, type 1 diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, Graves disease and so many more. Autoimmune diseases have complexity, however, like many diseases, systemic inflammation is at its core. With no one cause, it can often begin from allergens, environmental stressors, pathogenic infection or a toxin overloading the body causing an abnormal immune response. We know from research that autoimmune disease often has a leaky gut component to it triggering responses to foreign proteins that should not be in the bloodstream.
Causes
There can be many causes to autoimmune disease and we look at various aspects of a patients health history to identify a trigger for the disease. There can be a strong genetic component but lifestyle, diet and environemnt play a bigger part. We look at infections, especially viral and bacterial, which can undiagnosed to many if you don’t what to look for or how to look. The stomach infection from the H pylori bacteria has shown to cause thyroid autoimmunity. Epstein Barr Virus, which is notably hard to detect, has been linked to Hashimoto’s. Chlamydia pneumoniae, Epstein-Barr and Human Herpes virus 6 are associated with Multiple Sclerosis. Other factors that can cause autoimmune diseease are mold toxicity, hormonal imbalances and mitochondria dysfunction . Once the underlying condition or trigger is resolved and imbalances are corrected, we are able to support and manage the conditon successfully
Common Symptoms.
- Muscle Pain
- Gut Symptoms
- Connective Tissue Pain
- Brain Fog
- Thyroid Issues
- Mental Health Issue
- Skin Issues
- Chronic Fatigue
- Sleep Dysregulation
- Mysterious Symptoms
Treatment Approach
At the Dublin Centre for Functional Medicine we always look to understand the imbalance, dysfunction or trigger that caused the body to illicit an abnormal immune response. We work very closely with patients and do a deep dive into their health history, as this often uncovers various pointers on what caused the disease.
Unlike conventional medicine, we have range of treatment protocols that will change from patient to patient. Treatments can include treating hidden infections through botanical herbal treatments, correcting a leaky gut, addressing hormonal imbalances, cleaning up environmental toxins, improving immune function, and addressing stress and the associated HPA imbalance. Nutrition is at the core of most of our protocols and we will look to ensure you are eating foods that are nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory and are feeding the good bacteria in your microbiome.
Our Approach to Healing Autoimmune
We’ll explore anti-inflammatory diet plans like the AIP diet. Additionally, we’ll assess for nutrient deficiencies, including zinc, vitamin D, and selenium, as they play a role in regulating immune function.
Utilize natural immune-modulatory and anti-inflammatory compounds to diminish the inflammatory response and lower the occurrence of flare-ups.
Our philosophy revolves around testing rather than guessing, proving to be a more efficient and cost-effective approach in the long run. Our practitioners can suggest targeted tests, including assessments of gut health such as leaky gut testing, SIBO breath tests, and Candida testing. Additionally, we can explore DNA testing to reveal genetic susceptibilities you may have.
Our practitioners can suggest additional treatments or lifestyle interventions, such as protocols IV drip therapy or heavy metal detoxification.
Why Choose Us?
As functional medicine gains wider recognition, our clinic stands out as a trusted choice for individuals who are proactive about their health and open to a more personalised, root-cause approach.
We’re proud to be one of the few dedicated functional medicine clinics offering this specialised care — available globally through virtual consultations or in person at our clinic in Dubin.
Patient Centic
At the Dublin Centre for Functional Medicine, we know that one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why we create personalised treatment plans tailored to your unique health needs — helping you achieve your full potential and live a healthier, happier life.
Expertise
We simplify the complex. Many patients come to us after seeing multiple doctors. Through a functional medicine approach, we identify the root imbalance and target what truly needs to shift for lasting health improvements.”
Holistic Appproach
True health goes beyond simply being disease-free. We take a holistic view—looking at everything from your genetics to your lifestyle (sleep, nutrition, exercise, movement and stress—to understand your unique needs and deliver the most effective, personalised care