In this episode of Bendy Bodies Podcast, we explore the common symptoms and triggers of brain fog, including sensory overload and fatigue. We also discuss treatment approaches such as mast cell stabilizers and immune regulation to help manage these challenges. If you struggle with brain fog or want to learn more, check out the full episode of the podcast here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vf-2j6yZqLU&ab_channel=BendyBodies

Are you ready to take control of your next doctor's appointment? 🩺 We know that managing complex conditions like #POTS, #MCAS, and #EDS can feel overwhelming, which is why we've created the ultimate Doctor Appointment Checklist just for you. Save this post for your next appointment, tag a friend who could use these tips, and share in the comments: What’s one must-have item you never forget to bring to your doctor’s appointment? 👇 #DoctorAppointment #HealthTips #ChronicIllness #SelfAdvocacy #PatientEmpowerment #WellnessJourney #HealthCareTips #MedicalRecords #SymptomTracker #AutoimmuneAwareness #Healthcare #ChronicPain #HealthJourney #EmpoweredPatient Medical Advice Disclaimer: This information is purely educational and does not intend to be a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult with your doctor before making any changes.

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Ilene Ruhoy, a board-certified neurologist and environmental toxicologist, for an in-depth discussion on brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, and chronic fatigue in conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and dysautonomia. Dr. Ruhoy shares insights on the immune system’s role in neurological symptoms, the impact of mast cell activation, and the role of treatments like peptides, IVIG (intravenous gammaglobulin), plasmapheresis, and immune modulators. They also discuss the hidden effects of histamine on the brain, how sensory sensitivity contributes to fatigue, and the role of regenerative medicine in connective tissue healing. This episode is packed with cutting-edge research and practical solutions for improving cognitive function and energy levels. Takeaways: Brain Fog & Fatigue Are Linked to Immune Dysfunction: Cognitive dysfunction in conditions like EDS, MCAS, and POTS is often tied to inflammatory responses and immune dysregulation rather than just histamine alone. Plasmapheresis & IVIG Can Help Some Patients: For severe cases, plasmapheresis removes inflammatory mediators from the blood, and IVIG helps regulate immune function, leading to cognitive and fatigue improvements. Histamine Plays a Complex Role in Brain Function: While histamine can trigger symptoms in MCAS patients, it also has neuroprotective effects, making antihistamine overuse a potential issue for some. Sensory Sensitivity Increases Cognitive Load: Many people with EDS and related conditions experience hypersensitivity to light, noise, and smells, which can overwhelm the nervous system and worsen fatigue. Regenerative Medicine May Support Connective Tissue Repair: Peptides, stem cell therapy, and targeted immune modulation are promising areas of research to help strengthen connective tissue and reduce systemic inflammation. Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Dr. Ilene Ruhoy Instagram: @IleneRuhoyMDPhD TikTok: @IleneRuhoyMDPhD Podcast (YT): @Unraveledpod Twitter: @RuhoyMD Bluesky: @ruhoy.bsky.social Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

I was fortunate to interview Dr. Kelly Casperson for @bendy_bodies! As a urologist and founder of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Casperson has vast knowledge about hormones and the risks and benefits most important when considering things like hormone replacement therapy. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation surrounding hormones so it is important to arm yourself with the best possible information before seeing your doctor. Check out the full episode to hear Dr. Casperson’s take on the fear of hormones and how women have been negatively impacted. What are your feelings about hormone replacement therapy and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD)? #Estrogen #Testosterone #Hormones #WomensHealth #HormoneFears #HealthOptimization #ConnectiveTissueDisorders #Empowerment #DoctorVisit #podcast

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein chats with Dr. Kelly Casperson, a urologist and sexual health expert, about hormones, libido, and sexual wellness—especially for those with hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and related conditions. They dive into testosterone in women, hormone myths, bladder health, vaginal estrogen, and why pelvic floor therapy is a must. Dr. Casperson debunks common hormone fears, explains the role of mast cells and bladder issues, and shares insights on navigating intimacy with chronic illness. This episode is packed with must-know information on aging, sexual health, and proactive care for those with complex medical conditions. Takeaways: Testosterone is Essential for Women: Women naturally produce more testosterone than estrogen, but it's often overlooked in hormone therapy. Vaginal Estrogen is a Game-Changer: It can reduce UTIs by 50%, improve bladder health, and prevent vaginal atrophy—yet many doctors don’t discuss it. Pelvic Floor Therapy is a Must: A weak or overly tight pelvic floor can lead to pain, incontinence, and sexual dysfunction—physical therapy can help. Hormone Myths Need Busting: Misinformation from past studies has caused unnecessary fear of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)—many of those concerns are outdated. Bladder Pain is Often Misdiagnosed: Many people diagnosed with interstitial cystitis may actually have pelvic floor dysfunction, hormone imbalances, or mast cell issues. Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. My favorite books: https://bit.ly/3WHFQhq Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Dr. Kelly Casperson Instagram: @kellycaspersonmd Facebook: @youarentbroken YouTube: @kellycaspersonmd Book: You Are Not Broken https://www.amazon.com/shop/hypermobilitymd/list/2LQLPARJY3CDS?ref_=aipsflist Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Sexual function is a major indicator of quality of life—yet it's often overlooked in medical assessments. Symptomatic joint hypermobility impacts sexual function in many ways! In this eye-opening conversation on the @bendy_bodies Podcast, Dr. Irwin Goldstein and Sue Goldstein discuss the critical link between sexual health and overall well-being. Conditions like Tarlov cyst, mast cell activation syndrome, and POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) are often missed as factors contributing to problems with sex. Hopefully, things move in the right direction. Thanks to the internet and online support communities, younger generations are finding treatment plans faster than ever before, breaking the stigma and seeking help. Learn more by watching the full podcast episode: https://youtu.be/csiK_Zmb_hk #QualityOfLife #BendyBodiesPodcast #PatientAdvocacy #OnlineSupport #HealthJourney #MentalHealth #SexualFunction #EhlersDanlosSyndrome #DrIrwinGoldstein #SueGoldstein #HealthAwareness

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with sexual health experts Dr. Irwin Goldstein & Sue Goldstein. This amazing husband and wife team share insights on common issues such as vestibulodynia, libido challenges, and treatment options ranging from physical therapy to hormone therapy. They explore the often-overlooked intersection of joint hypermobility conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) with sexual dysfunction. They discuss how connective tissue disorders impact sexual health, the role of the sacral nerve in arousal and pain, and how patients can advocate for better care. Whether you're struggling with pain during intimacy or looking for solutions, this episode offers practical advice and hope. Takeaways: Connective Tissue Impacts Sexual Health: Conditions like EDS can affect the sacral nerve, leading to pain, discomfort, and sexual dysfunction that many doctors overlook. Mast Cell Dysfunction Can Trigger Pain: MCAS can cause issues such as vestibulodynia, leading to painful penetration and impacting quality of life beyond intimacy. Pelvic Floor Therapy is Essential: Specialized pelvic floor physical therapy can significantly improve sexual function and reduce pain for individuals with hypermobility disorders. Hormone Therapy May Help: Addressing hormonal imbalances, particularly testosterone and estrogen levels, can improve symptoms of vaginal dryness and pain. Communication is Key: Open conversations with partners and healthcare providers about sexual health concerns are crucial for finding the right treatments and maintaining intimacy. PS. The vestibule refers to the vulva (female external genitalia) between the labia minora (two inner skin folds that surround the vaginal opening). PSS. Neuroproliferative vestibulodynia is where there are too many nerve endings in the vestibule tissue. Check out Ep 116 with Dr Feigenbaum to learn more about Tarlov Cysts, which were discussed in this episode: https://youtu.be/Uq4OrVa6deM Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Dr. Irwin Goldstein & Sue Goldstein Facebook: @SDSexMed Youtube: @sdsexualmed Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Ever wonder if your body truly feels safe? That’s the first step Dr. Jill Carnahan challenges us to explore when it comes to mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). In this episode of the @bendy_bodies podcast, we peel back the layers—from feeling safe in your own skin to uncovering deeper root causes like chronic infections and mold. It’s a whole-person approach, and every layer matters! Did any of this resonate with you? Check out the full podcast episode to learn more. https://youtu.be/ZKfh2EUNoPw #mastcellactivationsyndrome #MastCellActivation #MoldExposure #ChronicIllness #FunctionalMedicine #HolisticHealth #Toxins #GutHealth #BendyBodies #DrJillCarnahan #WellnessJourney #Autoimmune #HealthyLiving