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In this episode of the 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia' podcast, Dr. Donna Henderson, a neuropsychologist and co-author of 'Is it Autism?' joins to discuss autism and its intersection with chronic pain conditions. Dr. Henderson emphasizes the importance of understanding both external and internal symptoms of autism, especially in cases where individuals mask their traits. The conversation delves into the evolving understanding of autism, the challenges faced by those who camouflage their symptoms, and the necessity of recognizing autism beyond observable behaviors. Dr. Henderson also shares her personal journey and professional insights, providing valuable perspectives for clinicians, patients, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of autism.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
00:54 Dr. Donna Henderson's Background and Expertise
02:51 Journey to Understanding Autism
07:13 The Importance of Diagnosis and Self-Understanding
11:33 Challenges in Diagnosing Autism
17:04 Social Interest vs. Social Energy
24:39 State of Autism and Future Directions
29:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

...

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In the final episode of a three-part series, the Conquering Fibromyalgia Podcast delves into the life of artist Frida Kahlo, who lived with fibromyalgia and other chronic pain syndromes. This episode explores a particularly challenging period in Kahlo’s life marked by her divorce from Diego Rivera, her relentless pursuit of art despite worsening health, and her profound emotional and physical suffering. It highlights Kahlo's ability to convert her pain into powerful artistic expressions and examines her struggles with surgeries, relentless pain, emotional distress, and eventual decline. The episode emphasizes the connection between suffering and creativity, portraying Kahlo as a figure of resilience who transformed her agony into enduring art.

00:00 Introduction to Frida Kahlo's Resilient Life
00:39 Frida's Turbulent Marriage and Artistic Expression
01:23 The Depths of Frida's Pain and Artistic Metaphors
03:48 Frida's Struggles with Chronic Pain and Medical Misdiagnoses
09:30 Frida's Enduring Spirit and Final Years
20:12 Frida's Lasting Legacy and Final Reflections
24:29 Conclusion 

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

...

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In this episode, delve into the tumultuous life of iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, who struggled with chronic illnesses, including fibromyalgia, and complex personal relationships. The episode explores her marriage to Diego Rivera, her health issues and miscarriages, her dedication to art despite immense physical and emotional pain, and the profound resilience she exhibited throughout her life. Through her vivid works, Frida transformed her suffering into masterpieces that continue to resonate. This episode highlights the strength needed to find beauty amid despair and the role of creativity in coping with chronic pain.

00:00 Introduction
00:43 Frida and Diego: A Tumultuous Marriage
02:40 Frida's Health Struggles and Friendships
04:03 Pregnancy and Heartbreak
08:52 Art as a Reflection of Pain
10:23 Frida's Resilience and Creativity
14:41 Frida's Later Years and Decline
19:48 Conclusion and Legacy

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

Exploring Frida Kahlo's Battle with Fibromyalgia: Part 1

In this episode of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast,' Dr. Michael Lenz takes a deep dive into the life of Frida Kahlo. Known for her vibrant and emotionally raw artwork, Kahlo endured a lifetime of pain, likely linked to conditions like fibromyalgia. The episode explores her early years, the traumatic accident that significantly shaped her life and art, and her use of creativity as a coping mechanism. Kahlo's story serves as a beacon of resilience, providing insights and empathy for those living with chronic pain.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:25 Exploring Frida Kahlo's Life and Pain
00:46 Understanding Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain
04:29 Frida Kahlo's Early Life and Struggles
11:54 The Devastating Accident
16:19 Frida's Artistic Journey and Resilience
19:23 Conclusion and Next Steps

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

...

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Is Fibromyalgia an Autoimmune Disorder? In-Depth Review and Analysis

In this episode, we explore whether fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disorder, discussing a comprehensive review published in August 2023 by Dr. Daniel Clauw and other experts. The episode covers the multifaceted nature of fibromyalgia, including its symptoms, diagnostic challenges, similarities to other conditions, and the roles of cognitive, emotional, and inflammatory factors. It also dives into whether the recognition of low grade inflammation in many chronic health conditions like diabetes, Alzheimer's, osteoarthritis and coronary artery disease can be extrapolated to fibromyalgia using a mouse study looking at antibodies when an animal model of fibromyalgia has never been developed. 

00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Autoimmune Disorders
00:46 Understanding Fibromyalgia: Symptoms and Prevalence
01:45 Challenges in Diagnosing Fibromyalgia
02:35 The Reality of Fibromyalgia: Scientific Evidence
02:53 The Bio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual_Environmental Model of Pain
05:31 The Role of Neuroinflammation and Gut Health
10:35 Is Fibromyalgia an Autoimmune Disease?
14:14 Fibromyalgia is not an Autoimmune disease
23:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

...

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Managing POTS: Insights and Treatments with Dr. Jeffrey Boris

In this episode, Dr. Jeffrey Boris, a pediatric cardiologist, delves into treatments for POTS, including specific medications and non-pharmacologic interventions. The discussion covers the roles of Pyridostigmine, IV saline infusions, fluid and salt intake, and stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. Dr. Boris emphasizes the importance of personalized care and highlights the complexities of POTS symptoms, noting gender-specific differences and the significance of premenstrual symptom variations. The necessity of education, social support, and nuanced medical approaches is also stressed, offering hope and guidance for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.

00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:36 Medications for POTS
02:57 IV Saline Therapy
07:18 Fluid and Salt Intake
10:34 Caffeine and Sports Drinks
11:54 Methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine for Cognitive Dysfunction
13:58 Long-Term Outcomes Study
17:11 Sex Differences in POTS
21:48 Hope and Support for POTS Patients
24:15 Telemedicine Practice and Services
29:46 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

In this episode, we delve into POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). Our special guest, Dr. Jeffrey Boris, a seasoned pediatric cardiologist, shares his expertise on POTS, including its diagnosis, common triggers, symptoms, and multifaceted treatment approaches. The discussion includes Dr. Boris's journey into treating POTS, the challenges in diagnosing it, and the need for more comprehensive research and funding. This conversation also highlights the parallels with fibromyalgia and emphasizes the importance of individualized care for patients.

00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Conditions
00:35 Meet Dr. Jeffrey Boris: Pediatric Cardiologist
01:56 Dr. Boris' Journey into POTS
04:28 Understanding POTS: History and Definition
09:29 Challenges in Diagnosing POTS
14:00 Triggers and Symptoms of POTS
19:07 Managing POTS: Approaches and Treatments
26:26 Research and Future Directions in POTS
33:54 Conclusion and Summary

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

In the second part of the conversation with Dr. Megan Neff, a clinical psychologist specializing in autism, we delve deeper into autistic burnout, exploring triggers such as life transitions, masking, and sensory overwhelm. Megan  explains that burnout arises when stressors exceed coping abilities and offers self-help tips for managing an autistic style brain and nervous system. She emphasizes the importance of sensory self-care, recognizing and understanding one's neurodivergence, and proper screening by healthcare providers. The discussion also includes insights from her book, 'Self Care for Autistic People,' and advice for clinicians, loved ones, and individuals living with autism or ADHD.

00:00 Introduction and Recap
00:35 Understanding Autistic Burnout
02:03 Triggers and Vulnerabilities
05:03 Sensory Self-Care and Regulation
09:00 Challenges and Misdiagnoses
14:18 Empowerment Through Diagnosis
16:59 Self-Care for Autistic Individuals
24:23 Final Thoughts and Resources

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

In this first part of a two-part interview, we delve into the concept of autistic burnout with Dr. Megan Neff, a clinical psychologist and neurodivergent advocate. Dr. Neff shares her personal journey discovering her autism after her daughter's diagnosis and discusses the signs and misdiagnosis risks associated with autistic burnout. Highlighting the overlaps with other conditions like bipolar disorder, she emphasizes the importance of proper assessment and a balanced approach in diagnostic practices. Stay tuned next week for the continuation of this insightful conversation.

00:00 Introduction to the Interview Series
00:23 Listener's Story: A Parent's Struggle
00:56 Understanding Autism and Interoception
01:48 Introducing Dr. Megan Neff
02:27 Dr. Neff's Professional Journey
03:50 Challenges in Autism Diagnosis
04:42 The Importance of Proper Assessment
06:02 Dr. Neff's Background and Insights
07:54 The Zigzag Path to Autism Awareness
20:06 Autistic Burnout Explained
24:25 Misdiagnosis and Functional Assessments
32:01 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

Understanding Lifestyle Medicine and Its Impact on Chronic Conditions

This episode commemorates the three-year anniversary of the podcast hosted by Dr. Michael Lenz, a pediatrician, internal medicine physician, clinical lipidologist, and author of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia.' He explores the concept of lifestyle medicine, emphasizing its principles like whole food plant-based diets, regular physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, avoidance of risky substances, and positive social connections. He contrasts lifestyle medicine with other medical practices like allopathic, preventive, functional, and integrative medicine. Michael also discusses the chronic health conditions affected by lifestyle choices, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and autoimmune diseases. The episode highlights significant statistical findings and discusses the importance of patient participation in lifestyle changes to improve overall health and well-being.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:26 Understanding Fibromyalgia
00:59 Introduction to Lifestyle Medicine
02:40 Comparing Medical Approaches
06:14 The Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine
07:45 Impact of Lifestyle on Chronic Diseases
13:18 Case Studies and Real-Life Examples
19:00 The Role of Social Connections
21:17 Success Stories and Clinical Evidence
26:44 Implementing Lifestyle Medicine
29:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

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