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Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

Six in ten adults in the United States are living with at least one chronic illness. What’s more the prevalence of chronic diseases such as autoimmunity and diabetes is expected to continue to rise in the coming years. With such alarming statistics, it’s crucial that we get to the bottom of it and begin taking a more holistic approach to healthcare.

Functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of disease such as hormone imbalances, chronic stress, and nutrient deficiencies. By approaching patient care in a holistic way, a functional medicine doctor can successfully treat, manage, and sometimes even reverse many chronic illnesses. That means finally getting your life back after years, maybe even decades, of debilitating symptoms! Chronic illness therapy can be complex, so working with a skilled physician is key to developing a treatment plan that is right for you.

Functional Medicine Vs Conventional Medicine

Conventional medicine often focuses on symptom management with medications, offering temporary relief without addressing the underlying cause. For instance, acid reflux might be treated with acid blockers, but symptoms often return once medication stops. Functional medicine, on the other hand, investigates the root cause of the symptoms, such as high cortisol, nutrient deficiencies, or gut imbalances, to provide lasting relief and promote true healing. By identifying and addressing the underlying factors contributing to a condition, functional medicine aims to restore optimal health and prevent future recurrences.

Functional Medicine and Chronic Illness

Functional medicine addresses chronic illnesses holistically, recognizing the interconnectedness of bodily systems often impacted by these complex conditions. Unlike conventional medicine, which may focus on isolated symptoms, functional medicine seeks to identify and address the root causes of illness, often found in diet and lifestyle habits. Treatment plans emphasize personalized lifestyle interventions and supplements to address nutrient deficiencies, with pharmaceuticals and invasive procedures used sparingly as a last resort. This approach offers comprehensive care for chronic illnesses, extending beyond the limits of conventional medicine.

Contributing Factors to Chronic Illness

Most chronic conditions have several contributing factors that create a “perfect storm”. Although genetics do play a small role, a patient’s behavior typically contributes much more to their risk factors than their genetic predisposition does. Some of the most common contributing factors to chronic illness include:

  • Nutrient deficiencies
  • Hormone dysfunction
  • Immune system dysfunction
  • Chronic stress
  • Blood sugar imbalance
  • Gut infections or imbalances
  • Poor diet
  • Lack of exercise
  • Food sensitivities

In many cases, patients find that their symptoms are significantly improved, if not eliminated, after addressing these factors. Rather than mask their symptoms, these lifestyle interventions actually work to heal their chronic illness at the source.

How Functional Medicine Treats Chronic Illnesses

Functional medicine addresses chronic illnesses by identifying and correcting underlying imbalances in the body’s various systems. This holistic approach prioritizes safe, non-invasive treatments to restore optimal function and alleviate symptoms. By addressing root causes rather than merely managing symptoms, functional medicine can not only manage but potentially reverse many common chronic conditions. Moreover, this approach enhances overall health, reducing the risk of future illnesses.

At Five Journeys, we utilize functional medicine techniques and chronic illness therapies that are tailored to each individual patient. We never use a cookie-cutter approach, and believe that your treatment should be just as unique as you are. We offer a wide range of services and treatment options including IV therapy, nutrition counseling, and functional medicine to treat a variety of chronic illnesses including gut health issues, hormonal imbalances, autoimmune disorders, thyroid dysfunction, and more! To find out how we can help you reclaim your health, schedule a consultation today!

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Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Genova’s SIBO Profiles are non-invasive breath tests which capture exhaled hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4) gases following patient ingestion of a lactulose solution to evaluate bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Breath

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

COST

$85-$225 depending on insurance coverage. 

Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At Home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$699

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. Repeat test prices $249

Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the genetic profile for multiple health indicators. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood Spot

COST

$319

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This company can test for lyme, babesia, bartonella and additional tick-borne illnesses. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

around $1600 (depends on panel selected)

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. May be reimbursed with PPO plans.
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$299

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates a wide range of environmental toxins that may be leading to harmful health effects.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$199

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins.
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Blood work for blood count, urinalysis and vitamin levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

NOTES

You often have to fast for these tests-please check your providers notes.

COST

Depending on the test, deductible or copay may apply.

INSURANCE

Depends on insurance coverage, deductible or copay may apply.
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Glyphosate (“Round Up”) is a pesticide that is widely used and this test indicates the body’s levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$99 ($69 if performed with mycotoxins or environmental toxins).

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins or GPL Tox.
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates many measures including micronutrients, antioxidants, minerals, detox, overview of gut function, omegas and toxic exposure. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$150 – $329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

INSTRUCTIONS

Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the gut function and indicates microbiome balance, overgrowth, infection, inflammation, parasites and digestive efficacy. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$179-$439 depending on insurance coverage.

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

No probiotics for one week.

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the full menstrual cycle, female hormones, and adrenal profile.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

COST

$160-$329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

NOTES

Must be off hormones in order to do the testing.
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is specifically for a tick-borne illness called “Bartonella”.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

COST

$260

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of potentially harmful heavy metals stored in the body.  Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

Testing: $79 x2 paid to Doctor’s Data
DMSA: $38 paid to Johnson’s Compounding Pharmacy

INSURANCE

Not covered by Insurance
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test measures saliva cortisol testing throughout the course of one day and informs us where there might be an adrenal imbalance.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Saliva

COST

$80

INSURANCE

No insurance coverage

Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine
Chronic Illness Therapy In Functional Medicine

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is designed to look at food sensitivities (IgG immune responses). It is available in both a 99 or 184 panel. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$129-238

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted