A journey with autoimmune disorder

Dr. Meredith O’Loughlan has been living well with multiple sclerosis (MS) for 20 years. Meredith has special interest in working with digestive health issues and autoimmune conditions. Meredith experienced digestive complaints since age 16, had two stomach operations. Meredith was diagnosed with Leaky Gut Syndrome, liver dysfunction, heavy metal toxicity and imbalanced microbiome.

Meredith has special interest in supporting patients with autoimmune conditions including MS, SLE (lupus), arthritis (rheumatoid/ osteoarthritis), scleroderma, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, diabetes, psoriasis, hyper/ hypothyroidism and other conditions including Chronic Fatigue Syndrome & fibromyalgia.

Autoimmune disorders

Autoimmune diseases are understood to be a complex dis-ease within the body where the immune system that attacks the body's own tissues and organs, causing a wide range of symptoms and conditions. However, it is not clear what exactly causes our body's immune system to act like this, as many factors such as gene, infections, dietary factors, emotional factors, environment influences and diets aspects may contribute. 

At Spring Health we complete a comprehensive assessment to see how we can best support you.

Leaky Gut

Inside our bellies, we have an extensive intestinal lining covering more than 4,000 square feet of surface area. When working properly, it forms a tight barrier that controls what gets absorbed into the bloodstream. An unhealthy gut lining may have large cracks or holes, allowing partially digested food, toxins, and bugs to penetrate the tissues beneath it. This may trigger inflammation and changes in the gut flora (normal bacteria) that could lead to problems within the digestive tract and beyond. The research world is booming today with studies showing that modifications in the intestinal bacteria and inflammation may play a role in the development of several common chronic diseases.

Autoimmune conditions linked with Leaky Gut Syndrome

Intestinal Permeability (IP) test is a precise and non-invasive urine challenge test for assessing gastrointestinal mucosal integrity or permeability of the small bowel. 

At Spring Health we can arrange Functional Medicine Pathology tests to determine if you have Leaky Gut.

Dr. Meredith uses a combination of Nutritional Medicine, Chinese Herbal Medicines, acupuncture, scalp acupuncture and suggestions regarding dietary modifications, integrating a concept of `food as medicine’. 

At Spring Health we support patients experiencing symptoms associated with autoimmune conditions including: