The incidence of autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, psoriasis, thyroid disease and even diabetes has skyrocketed. They can present with a wide constellation of symptoms, both vague and specific, but can be difficult to diagnose. While we have made tremendous strides in the treatment of autoimmune disease, there are many important considerations that can affect the course of illness and quality of life.
In this episode, Dr. Kara Wada and I discuss Sjogren's, Autoimmune Disease and Approaches to Invisible Illness including answers to the following questions:
- What is autoimmune disease and how does it develop?
- Why is it so important to see a specialist for an autoimmune disease workup?
- Why has there been an increase in the incidence of autoimmune disease?
- How much of a role does genetics play in disease?
- What is Sjogren's and how was Dr. Wada's diagnosis made?
- How does gut health impact autoimmune disease?
- Can autoimmune disease be diagnosed with labs?
- What happens when all your labs are normal but you know something is wrong?
- How can symptom tracking be helpful?
- How did Dr. Wada heal herself?
- Why is it important to discuss all your supplements with your physician?
- Are "natural" supplements safe?
- What are some lifestyle changes autoimmune patients should make?
- How do diet, stress management and sleep hygiene affect autoimmune disease?
- What is the difference between a physician and coach and which one you should choose?
- How do your thoughts inform your feelings, actions and results?
- What is some advice for approaching invisible illness or having a challenging condition?
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Kara Wada, MD is a Sjogren’s spoonie, quadruple board-certified allergy/immunology and lifestyle medicine physician, coach, medical educator and mom. Dr. Wada sees her work as a balance builder. She focuses on the unique challenges pertaining to those struggling with misbehaving immune systems including autoimmune, allergic and immune deficiency related conditions. She works tirelessly with her patients and coaching clients using her naturally-minded and scientifically-grounded approach to health and healing.
Dr. Wada earned her medical degree at The University of Illinois College of Medicine. She completed Internal Medicine-Pediatrics residency, Allergy/Immunology and Medical Education fellowships at The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She currently serves as Assistant Fellowship Director and Assistant Clinical Professor at The Ohio State University.
Dr. Wada has been featured on NPR, US News & World Reports, Popular Science and Reader’s Digest as well as multiple podcasts. Dr. Wada lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband, Dr. Akira Wada, and 3 children.
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For more from Dr. Wada check out:
www.crunchyallergist.com
Instagram: @crunchyallergist
Facebook: www.facebook.com/crunchyallergist
Twitter: @crunchyallergy
Success with Sjogren's Podcast
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Thanks so much for listening!
If you enjoyed the show and want to hear more, please leave a review, subscribe and share!
You can always find more information on my website:
www.drlexlifestylemedicine.com
and....
If you love the music, you can find more at:
www.therealmichaelvm.com/music
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All my love & gratitude to:
my guests: Dr. Kara Wada & Oliver,
my inspiration: my patients,
my idea guy: Edward,
my intro crew: Izzy, Lance & Lucia,
my tech & equipment guy: Pop,
my angel: Susie,
my music & sound guy: Mike VM,
my mascot: Jules,
my creative director & cheerleader: Emily,
my love, Michael.