DAO, or “histamine-degrading enzyme deficiency”, is a medical condition in which the body doesn’t produce enough of an enzyme called histamine-N-methyltransferase (HNMT), which is responsible for breaking down histamine, a naturally occurring chemical in the body. As a result, histamine accumulates in the body, causing the body to overreact to it.

Histamine is normally involved in the inflammatory response, regulation of gastric acidity and transmission of nerve signals. However, in people with CAD, histamine accumulation can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including headaches, skin rash, itching, flushing, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and other symptoms similar to those of an allergic reaction.

DAO can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional using a thorough medical history, clinical evaluation and specific tests to measure HNMT enzyme activity. Treatment of DAO is generally aimed at avoiding histamine-rich foods and beverages, as well as reducing potential triggers, such as alcohol, medication and stress. DAO enzyme supplements can also be used to help break down histamine in the body. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations if DAO is suspected.

SAMA, or Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, is a medical condition in which mast cells, which are immune system cells, are over-activated and release too much histamine and other chemicals into the body. This can lead to a wide variety of symptoms, such as skin rash, itching, abdominal pain, headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, palpitations, fluctuations in blood pressure, dizziness, breathing problems and other symptoms similar to those of an allergic reaction.

SAMA can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as stress, diet, medications, infections, hormonal changes and other stimuli. It can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional using a thorough medical history, clinical evaluation, specific laboratory tests and possibly a bone marrow biopsy. Treatment of SAMA is generally aimed at avoiding known triggers, managing symptoms and stabilizing mast cells. This may include the use of medications to block the effects of histamine, as well as dietary and lifestyle modifications. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations if SAMA is suspected.

SED, or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, is an inherited disorder of connective tissue, the substance that supports and connects the body’s various tissues. EDS is characterized by an alteration in the structure and function of connective tissue, which can lead to joint hyperlaxity, skin fragility, vascular problems and other varied symptoms.

Symptoms of EDS can vary widely from person to person, but may include joint hypermobility, joint pain, skin problems such as easy bruising and slow healing, frequent nosebleeds, digestive problems, cardiovascular disorders, musculoskeletal problems, vision problems, sleep problems and other symptoms.

There are several subtypes of EDS, including classic EDS, vascular EDS, hypermobile EDS and other less common forms. The diagnosis of EDS is usually made by a healthcare professional specializing in connective tissue disorders, based on medical history, clinical examination, imaging tests, genetic testing and other specific assessments.

Treatment of EDS is primarily symptomatic, aimed at managing the specific symptoms of each individual. This may include pain management, physical rehabilitation, prevention of complications, management of cardiovascular problems, management of skin problems and other approaches specific to each person’s symptoms. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations if SED is suspected.

Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (PTS) is an autonomic nervous system disorder that affects the regulation of blood pressure and heart rate. PTS is characterized by an excessive increase in heart rate when standing, which can lead to a variety of symptoms.

Common symptoms of STP include rapid heart rate (tachycardia), which can increase significantly as soon as the person stands up, dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness, fatigue, headaches, visual disturbances, palpitations, chest pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and bowel problems.

PTS can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, such as autonomic nervous system disorders, heart problems, hormonal imbalances or metabolic disorders. It can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional using a thorough clinical assessment, as well as specific tests such as standing heart rate and blood pressure tests.

Treatment for STP aims to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. It may include lifestyle changes, such as increasing salt and fluid intake, wearing compression stockings, as well as medication to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure. A multidisciplinary approach involving the coordination of different healthcare professionals may be required for effective management of STP.

Affected persons

People at higher risk of developing a disease & who want to age well while maintaining good health.

Approach

Epigenetic testing and other biological data ; 

Benefits

Can enable early and more targeted intervention;

Limitations

Can cause anxiety and high costs for people who have decided to take control of their health. 

Affected persons

People at higher risk of developing a disease & who want to age well while maintaining good health; 

Approach

Epigenetic testing and other biological data ; 

Benefits

Can enable early and more targeted intervention; 

Limitations

Can cause anxiety and high costs for people who have decided to take control of their health. 

Primary Objective

Functional medicine is an approach to medicine that focuses on the whole body and mind, rather than on isolated symptoms. It aims to understand the root cause of symptoms by examining the relationships between different body systems, such as the digestive, hormonal and immune systems, and by identifying environmental and lifestyle factors that may contribute to illness. 

If symptoms are present, the disease is not yet there, but the tools are available to assess and treat the underlying causes (linked to our modern lifestyle). This medicine uses advanced tests to assess biochemical imbalances and nutritional deficiencies, as well as natural therapies such as dietary supplements, herbs and dietary changes. 

Affected Persons

People with undiagnosed symptoms that cause them to feel unwell; people who are suffering and need to regain their balance in order to feel better and reduce (or slow down) the risk of developing illness. 

Approach

In-depth analysis (whether already begun in preventive medicine or not) to enable us to treat the symptoms of malaise that arise. 

Benefits

Can improve overall health and prevent chronic disease. 

Limitations

May require costly and complex tests 

Presentation of Functionnal Medicine and what it means by Dr Lucie Wetchoko & her invitees 

Primary Objective

Curative medicine is the traditional form of medicine that aims to treat illnesses and symptoms after they have occurred. It uses medical treatments such as drugs, surgery and physical therapies to cure illness and relieve symptoms. 

Affected Persons

People diagnosed with a disease ; 

Approach

Medication, surgery and other medical treatments to reduce the consequences of the disease; 

Benefits

Can relieve symptoms and improve living conditions (cure in some cases); 

Limitations