Ep. 9: “Kids Actually Have the Better Chance” - Dr. Ruhoy on Neuro-EDS, FND & Family Impact

In this episode, Dr. Ilene Ruhoy discusses the new Neuro-EDS diagnosis from the paper she co-authored, explains the relationship between neurology and psychology, explains where functional neurological disorder fits in, discusses first-line interventions for kids and teens, and affirms the impact of chronic illness on the whole family. 00:00 - Introduction and Dr. Ruhoy's Pediatric Neurology Background 06:16 - From Doctor to Patient: How Personal Illness Transformed Her Practice 12:11 - Psychology vs. Neurology: Unpacking FND, MCAS, and Organic Anxiety 19:51 - Neuro-EDS: Redefining Ehlers-Danlos as a Neurologic Disease 26:10 - First-Line Interventions for Kids: Physical Therapy and Mast Cell Stabilizers 34:03 - Partnering with Primary Care Providers for Specialized Prescriptions 37:16 - Hopeful Outcomes and Processing Trauma for the Whole Family 42:06 - Navigating FND Labels and Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM) 50:17 - Non-Medical Strategies: Vagus Nerve Stimulators 53:05 - Upcoming Projects and Closing Thoughts Links Defining Neuro-EDS: A Neuro-Predominant Phenotype in hEDS/HSD and Related Heritable Connective Tissue Disorders: https://www.researchgate.net/publicat... The show is hosted by Mercedes Harness, an advocate for families with children and teens with chronic, historically minimized conditions, and a mother of a child who appears to have recovered. Produced by NAST Studios. Show Email: joytaxpodcast@gmail.com The content of The Joy Tax Podcast is strictly for informational purposes and should never replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.