Autoimmune Specialists in Denver
Comprehensive Care for Autoimmune Conditions
At The Healing Center in Denver, we understand that autoimmune diseases are challenging to diagnose and manage. Many patients spend years navigating through multiple doctors and tests before finding the right diagnosis and treatment. With our specialized autoimmune team, we are dedicated to providing education to manage your autoimmune disorder.
Dr. Starling is a leading expert in autoimmune disorders, combining extensive training with years of experience in managing these complex conditions. With a focus on a holistic and patient-centered approach, we provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address your unique health needs. Coupled with specialized testing and unique protocols specific to the patient and their genetic make-up, our team will give you the tools to manage your autoimmune disorder.
What is an Autoimmune Disease?
An autoimmune disease occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body’s healthy cells, viewing them as foreign invaders. Imagine having an army designed to defend you, and ends up turning on you and attacking you instead. Normally, the immune system identifies and targets harmful entities such as bacteria and viruses. However, in autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own organs and tissues, leading to
- inflammation
- chronic fatigue
- pain
- depression/anxiety
- inflammation/swelling
- weight gain or weight loss
- brain fog
- Low-grade fever
- Sleep Disruptions
- Any symptom depending on the area being attacked
Autoimmune disorders can be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as infections, stress, or trauma. Though rare, autoimmune disorders affect a significant portion of the population and often require specialized care for effective management. At The Healing Center, we educate our patients so that they are able to manage their symptoms and live an empowered life.
Common Autoimmune Diseases
There are over 80 recognized autoimmune diseases. Some of the more common autoimmune conditions include:
- Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Crohn’s Disease
- Graves’ Disease
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
- Sjӧgren’s Syndrome
- Autoimmune Hepatitis
- Antiphospholipid Syndrome
- Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Autoimmune diseases can be complex and may vary greatly between individuals, with symptoms ranging from joint pain to systemic inflammation.
Common Testing Used at The Healing Center
- Antibodies to body tissues so we can identify the area that is being attacked
- Microbiome test to see if there are enough keystone species of bacteria present in the gut to keep immune balance
- GOAL: increase good bacteria… decrease fungus/pathogens RESULTS: good immune regulation
- Hormone testing to determine if there are irregularities that drive chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation etc
- General labs to get a snapshot of blood sugar, immune function, kidney and liver function, methylation (detox), vitamin D etc
- Specialty labs when needed
Treatment and Management
Our autoimmune specialists at The Healing Center in Denver employ a multidisciplinary approach to manage autoimmune diseases. Your treatment plan may include:
- Therapies and supplements that are tailored to your genetics to manage symptoms and inflammation while building your immune system.
- Foot Baths
- PEMF
- Stress Managements Techniques
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Supplements to reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system
- Dietary changes to support your microbiome, immune system, and replenish the nutrients that are missing
- Figuring out foods that you react to, both permanent and temporary through anti-inflammatory diets
- Eliminating toxins to reduce flare-ups and decrease inflammation.
- Eliminating infections that can be hidden to reduce inflammation and a portion of symptoms.
Our goal is to enhance your quality of life by addressing not only your symptoms but also the underlying causes. We work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that integrates holistic therapies with lifestyle adjustments. Our goal is for you to feel great again and provide you with the tools to know what to do when you have a flare up.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have an autoimmune disorder in Denver?
Symptoms of autoimmune disorder can vary depending on which disorder you have, but often include fatigue, brain fog, gut issues, weight gain, joint pain, muscle aches, and sleep issues. Also, if you have had positive antibody tests like
- ANA antibody (pre-lupus marker)
- TPO or antithyroglobulin antibody (Hashimotos)
- Myelin basic protein antibody (M.S.)
- LUPUS antibodies
- TTG antibodies (celiac)
- Crohn’s/ulcerative colitis ASCA/ANCA antibodies
- Positive Rheumatoid factor or CCP antibodies (rheumatoid arthritis)
- GAD antibodies (type 1 diabetes/ anxiety)
- Any food antibodies can indicate autoimmune issues hiding
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, an autoimmune specialist in Denver can provide a thorough evaluation and accurate diagnosis.
What should I expect during my first appointment with an autoimmune specialist in Denver?
At your first appointment with an autoimmune specialist in Denver, the specialist will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and may perform diagnostic tests. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan, a combination of therapies and supplements specific to your body’s needs, based on their findings.
What tests are commonly used to diagnose autoimmune disorders?
Diagnosing autoimmune disorders involves blood tests to detect specific antibodies and other diagnostic procedures tailored to your symptoms. Our autoimmune specialist in Denver will choose the appropriate tests for your situation.
- Antibodies to body tissues so we can identify the area that is being attacked
- Microbiome test to see if there are enough keystone species of bacteria present in the gut to keep immune balance GOAL: increase good bacteria… decrease fungus/pathogens RESULTS: good immune regulation
- Hormone testing to determine if there are irregularities that drive chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation etc
- General labs to get a snapshot of blood sugar, immune function, kidney and liver function, methylation (detox), vitamin D etc
- Specialty labs when needed
Can autoimmune diseases be cured?
The Goal of successful treatment with an autoimmune condition is:
- Feeling great again
- Remission and lowering of antibodies
- Knowing what to do when/ if you flare up again
Powerful autoimmune management is possible with comprehensive and appropriate treatment! In Denver, our autoimmune specialists focus on reducing symptoms, controlling inflammation, and improving your quality of life.
What types of treatments are available for autoimmune disorders?
Treatment options may include
- Microbiome healing: dietary changes ( decrease allergens and increase prebiotics), Vagus Nerve strengthening, probiotics, postbiotics, GB 4000 pathogen elimination, elimination of toxic microbiome chemicals like glyphosate etc
- Supplements to reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system,
- Nutrients replaced that are missing
- Chiropractic adjustments to increase parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest)
- Stress management techniques
- PEMF to increase cellular voltage and support healing
- Detox foot baths
Your Denver autoimmune specialist will tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs.
How important is diet in managing autoimmune disorders?
Nutrition is crucial in managing autoimmune conditions. An anti-inflammatory nutrition plan may help reduce symptoms and improve overall health. In Denver, our specialists can provide personalized dietary recommendations as part of your treatment plan.
Are there lifestyle changes that can help manage autoimmune disorders?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, stress reduction, adequate sleep, and avoiding known triggers can drastically help manage autoimmune disorders. Our Denver-based specialists can guide you in making these beneficial adjustments and give you specific recommendations tailored to you and what your body needs.
How can I support a loved one with an autoimmune disorder?
Supporting a loved one with an autoimmune disease involves understanding their condition, helping them adhere to their treatment plan, and providing emotional support. Encourage them to follow their specialist’s recommendations and offer practical help as needed.
How do I schedule an appointment with an autoimmune specialist at The Healing Center in Denver?
To schedule an appointment with an autoimmune specialist in Denver, call us at (303)-721-9800 or fill in the online form on our website. Our team will assist you in setting up a consultation with our autoimmune specialist to start your journey towards better health.