Gordon Medical Forum

Despite decades of reported cases, very little is known about Morgellons disease, making it one of modern medicine's most enigmatic conditions. The medical literature remains sparse,  and many healthcare providers still need to familiarize themselves with its true physical nature.  Once thought to be a delusional disorder, Morgellons disease has emerged as a complex physical condition that can present as unusual fibers embedded in skin lesions. Research has now established clear links between Morgellons and several infectious agents, particularly Borrelia burgdorferi. In this episode, Nafysa Parpia, ND, and Eboni Cornish, MD, help us unravel the intricate connections between Morgellons and various triggers - from Lyme disease and H-pylori to environmental factors like mold exposure and metal toxicity as well as how COVID is adding another layer of complexity to this condition. Episode Highlights: * Understanding the link between Morgellons and Lyme disease * Identifying populations at higher risk for Morgellons * Diagnostic criteria of Morgellons disease * Environmental triggers: The impact of mold, mycotoxins, and metal exposure * Morgellons symptoms that overlap with other chronic conditions * How gut health and toxicity influence Morgellons manifestation * The connection between oral health and Morgellons symptoms * Treatment approaches and management strategies Listen in to learn more:  (02:14) Understanding Morgellons Disease Symptoms  (07:21) Skin Presentation in Tick-Borne Illness (12:16) Emerging Illnesses and Morgellons Relationships  (19:27) Impact of Environmental and Gut Toxins  (27:09) Dental Care and Treatment Protocols  (32:07) Parasitic Patients and Lunar Influence  (39:38) Healing Process and Nervous System Balance  (44:34) Holistic Approach to Chronic Illness  About Eboni Cornish, MD Dr. Eboni Cornish, a highly regarded physician, provides integrative medicine services to a diverse global patient community. Currently serving as the Functional Medicine Director of the Amen Clinic East Coast Division, she specializes in autoimmune diseases, Lyme disease, Morgellons disease, environmental toxicity, gut imbalances, neurology, and various other chronic conditions. Learn more about Dr. Cornish: https://amenclinics.com/ [https://amenclinics.com/] 💬 Text us your feedback and future show ideas! (Please note we can't respond to texts - email questions to info@gordonmedical.com) [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2308407/open_sms] Interested in Becoming A Patient? Find out if working with Gordon Medical is right for you. Set up a complimentary discovery call [https://gordonmedical.com/discovery-call/] with our new patient coordinator at www.gordonmedical.com. [http://www.gordonmedical.com] ** This information is not to be taken as medical advice. Always consult your practitioner before making any changes to your treatment.

Recent studies reveal one in five COVID survivors face long-term effects, with some research suggesting rates as high as 50% of those infected experience lingering symptoms. These statistics underscore an emerging health crisis that threatens to overwhelm healthcare systems worldwide. As hospitalizations and death rates decline, the prevalence of Long COVID paradoxically continues to rise, presenting a complex challenge to medical professionals and researchers alike. In this episode, Dr. Eric Gordon and Dr. Suzanne Gazda dive deep into the neurological impacts of Long COVID, a multi-system illness with far-reaching consequences, illuminating the vast array of symptoms, from cognitive issues and brain fog to neuropathy and neuromuscular diseases.  They explore the puzzling persistence of the spike protein in the body, its interaction with ACE-2 receptors, and a crucial mystery: SARS-CoV-2 is the only known coronavirus with a prion arm. This unique characteristic raises vital questions about why this virus differs so dramatically from others, particularly in terms of its post-viral effects. Join us as we unravel the complexities of Long COVID's neurological impact and its implications for global health. Episode Highlights: * The emerging neurological health crisis following SARS-CoV-2 infection * Understanding the complex mechanisms of this multi-system illness * Major neurological post-COVID symptoms: cognitive issues, brain fog, fatigue, seizures, and neuromuscular diseases * The persistence of spike proteins in ACE-2 receptor sites and its implications * Research on persistent lingering spike protein associated with COVID * Prions: their mechanisms and challenges for the body * Studies showing similarities between “chemo brain” and “Long COVID brain” * Available testing * Treatment approaches offering hope amidst this unfolding health challenge Listen in to learn more :  (03:45) Rising Concerns About Long COVID  (08:28) Inflammatory Triggers in Neurologic Patients  (20:07) Key Pathophysiological Mechanisms in Treatment  (28:37) Treatment Approach for Complex Patients  (35:48) Cost of Long COVID Recovery Centers (42:40) Hope and Compassion in Long-Haul COVID  About Suzanne Gazda, MD Dr. Suzanne Gazda is a neurologist based in Boerne, Texas, with over 20 years of practice experience. She is affiliated with Methodist Hospital-San Antonio and specializes in treating conditions such as Alzheimer's dementia, non-Alzheimer's dementia, and multiple sclerosis. www.suzannegazdamd.com [http://www.suzannegazdamd.com] 💬 Text us your feedback and future show ideas! (Please note we can't respond to texts - email questions to info@gordonmedical.com) [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2308407/open_sms] Interested in Becoming A Patient? Find out if working with Gordon Medical is right for you. Set up a complimentary discovery call [https://gordonmedical.com/discovery-call/] with our new patient coordinator at www.gordonmedical.com. [http://www.gordonmedical.com] ** This information is not to be taken as medical advice. Always consult your practitioner before making any changes to your treatment.

Oral health plays a crucial role in overall systemic health, yet this connection is often underappreciated. Recent research has revealed significant links between oral conditions and various chronic diseases, brain health, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmunity, highlighting the importance of integrative dental care. In this episode, Dr. Eric Gordon sits down with Dr. Mary Ellen Chalmers, a specialist in Integrative and Functional Dental Medicine, to discuss the impact of oral health on the body. They dive into how toxins in the mouth can affect chronic illness, including infections, metals, mold, BPA, and oral health products. The conversation covers key topics, including risks associated with root canals, the use of advanced imaging techniques, the link between oral health and brain function, new developments in dental practices, and so much more. Episode Highlights * Key considerations for root canals and wisdom teeth removal * Advanced technologies in dental imaging, including cone beam scans * Factors affecting healing from root canals, including immune system health and conditions like Lyme disease * Detecting and addressing silent tooth infections * Impact of tooth loss and bite alterations on brain health * Increased cardiovascular disease risk in diabetes patients with multiple root canals * Research on mercury amalgam fillings and their potential links to hypertension, autoimmunity, and brain health * Current trends in dental practices and alternatives to amalgam fillings * Understanding orofacial pain patterns * The relationship between obstructed airways and systemic disease * Oral signs of food allergies, with a focus on gluten sensitivity Listen in to learn more : 0:02:33 - Chronic Lyme and Radiographic Lesions  0:07:59 - The Connection Between Teeth and Dementia  0:34:12 - Identifying Chronic Illness Root Causes  0:40:29 - Sleep Position and Airway Obstruction Assessment  About Mary Ellen Chalmers, DMD Mary Ellen S. Chalmers, DMD, IBDM, is a dentist in Santa Rosa, CA, specializing in Integrative and Functional Dental Medicine. She combines Functional Medicine principles with dentistry and holds certifications in naturopathy (BCNP) and integrative medicine (IBDM). Dr. Chalmers has advanced training in various dental modalities, including Oxygen and Ozone Therapy, and is the first dentist certified in Frequency Specific Microcurrent.  www.meschalmers.com [http://www.meschalmers.com] 💬 Text us your feedback and future show ideas! (Please note we can't respond to texts - email questions to info@gordonmedical.com) [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2308407/open_sms] Interested in Becoming A Patient? Find out if working with Gordon Medical is right for you. Set up a complimentary discovery call [https://gordonmedical.com/discovery-call/] with our new patient coordinator at www.gordonmedical.com. [http://www.gordonmedical.com] ** This information is not to be taken as medical advice. Always consult your practitioner before making any changes to your treatment.

This episode explores the latest research in the complex world of Long COVID and its intersection with chronic illness. Our guest, Gez Medinger, an investigative science journalist specializing in Long COVID, sits down with Dr. Eric Gordon to discuss the latest research and challenges faced by those suffering from this condition. They touch on the vast array of symptoms associated with Long COVID, noting that over 200 have been recognized. They stress that everyone with Long COVID can present differently, adding to the complexity of diagnosis and treatment. Gain knowledge and strategies to advocate for your health in the face of a condition that's still being understood by the medical community. Episode highlights: * Current priorities in Long COVID research: characterizing the condition and developing diagnostic tests * Latest findings on viral persistence in Long COVID patients * Promising treatments and medications for Long COVID * A review of microclots, autonomic nervous system, autoimmunity, ME/CFS, and gut health in relation to Long COVID * Recovery patterns: strategies and approaches of those who are improving * Reasons for optimism around new treatments Listen in to learn more:  * Journey of Long COVID Research | 0:00:43 - 0:02:59  * Navigating Long COVID Recovery Guide | 0:02:59 - 0:04:36  * Chronic Fatigue Research Funding Challenges | 0:07:21 - 0:08:25 * Complexities of Long COVID Pathology | 0:14:14 - 0:15:33 * Potential Treatments for Long COVID | 0:19:25 - 0:20:43  * Navigating Personalized Long COVID Treatment | 0:26:37 - 0:27:33 * Blood Apheresis for COVID Long Haulers | 0:43:12 - 0:44:12 * Potential Treatments for Long COVID | 0:49:35 - 0:51:17 * Chronic Illness and Long COVID Triggers | 0:54:07 - 0:55:19 (72 Seconds) About Gez Medinger Gez Medinger is an investigative science journalist, and patient advocate for Long COVID. His YouTube channel has over 6 million views, and he is the author of The Long COVID Handbook. Learn more about his book, The Long COVID Handbook [https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/453380/the-long-covid-handbook-by-altmann-gez-medinger-and-professor-danny/9781529900125]  💬 Text us your feedback and future show ideas! (Please note we can't respond to texts - email questions to info@gordonmedical.com) [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2308407/open_sms] Interested in Becoming A Patient? Find out if working with Gordon Medical is right for you. Set up a complimentary discovery call [https://gordonmedical.com/discovery-call/] with our new patient coordinator at www.gordonmedical.com. [http://www.gordonmedical.com] ** This information is not to be taken as medical advice. Always consult your practitioner before making any changes to your treatment.

Encephalopathy, a silent disruptor of brain function often triggered by unseen forces in our environment, affects individuals across the lifespan, from children to teenagers and seniors.  Dr. Nafysa Parpia sits down with pediatric neurologist Dr. Melanie Alarcio to examine the complex interactions between pathogens, toxins, and our genetic makeup, revealing how these factors can fundamentally change our brain's operation at any age. They’ll discuss this overlooked condition, shedding light on how external influences can lead to a spectrum of symptoms - from confusion and personality shifts to muscle twitches and speech difficulties. Special highlight on PANS, PANDAS, and CANS conditions that underscore the profound impact of immune dysfunction on the brain across various age groups.  Join us as we uncover the critical yet often misunderstood connections between our environment and our minds, illuminating a topic that demands greater attention in mainstream medicine and exploring its unique manifestations and impacts across different life stages. Episode highlights: - The critical importance of patient history and key points to emphasize during history-taking - Significance of investigating infections in younger patients - Essential standard laboratory tests for comprehensive evaluation - Impact of metals, mold, parasites, and other microbials on brain health - Misdiagnosis of PANS/PANDAS as psychiatric disorders, leading to improper care, especially challenging for young adults - Mechanisms by which infections affect brain function and health Listen in to learn more : [00:10:45] Root Causes Over Symptoms: [00:18:20]  Holistic Medical Training Abroad: [00:25:35]  Early Childhood Events and Adult Conditions: [00:42:10]  Systematic, Patient-Specific Approach: [00:50:25]  Treatment Strategies for Immunodeficiencies: [00:58:45] COVID-19 and Pediatric Neurology: About Melanie Alarcio, MD Melanie Alarcio, MD, is a fellowship-trained neurologist with specialized qualifications in Child Neurology, board-certified by the AANWP, and a Homeopathic Practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience. Practicing in Mesa, AZ, at the AZ NeuroRecovery Treatment Innovation Center, Dr. Alarcio provides comprehensive, integrative care for patients, particularly children, suffering from various neurologic disorders, including seizures, headaches, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, autism, encephalitis, and concussions.  She has a particular interest in the emerging field of psychoneuroimmunology and autoimmune encephalopathies such as PANDAS, limbic, Hashimoto's, and NMDA-receptor antibody encephalopathy.  As an active member of several professional organizations, including IAFNR, ICNA, CNS, AAN, MAPS, and NAEM, Dr. Alarcio stays at the forefront of neurological care and research. Learn more about Dr. Melanie Alarcio and her clinic, AZ NeuroRecovery Treatment Innovation Center: https://www.antichealth.com/  [https://www.antichealth.com/ ] 💬 Text us your feedback and future show ideas! (Please note we can't respond to texts - email questions to info@gordonmedical.com) [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2308407/open_sms] Interested in Becoming A Patient? Find out if working with Gordon Medical is right for you. Set up a complimentary discovery call [https://gordonmedical.com/discovery-call/] with our new patient coordinator at www.gordonmedical.com. [http://www.gordonmedical.com] ** This information is not to be taken as medical advice. Always consult your practitioner before making any changes to your treatment.