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WRITTEN BY: Tammy C. Perez, M.A., NCC, LCDC, LPC

REVIEWED BY: Dr. Terry Schroeder on April 18, 2023

Biofilm

 

What is Biofilm?

Biofilm is a complex microbial community that forms on surfaces, including within the human body. It consists of a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), such as proteins, polysaccharides, and DNA, which provide a protective environment for the microorganisms to grow and thrive.

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Biofilms can form on various surfaces, including teeth, medical implants, and mucosal membranes. Examples of biofilms in the body are dental plaque and urinary tract infections. Dental plaque appears on teeth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Biofilm on bladder walls may cause bacterial urinary tract infections.

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Biofilms can be challenging to treat with antibiotics because the matrix of EPS surrounding the microorganisms can prevent the antibiotics from reaching the bacteria. Additionally, bacteria within biofilms can be more resistant to antibiotics and the immune system, making their eradication difficult. As a result, biofilms can pose a significant health risk and be challenging to manage and treat.

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What causes Biofilm?

Microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses adhere to a surface within the human body and produce an extracellular matrix of polysaccharides, proteins, and other molecules. This matrix protects the microorganisms from the immune system and antimicrobial agents, making them more resistant to treatment.

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Factors contributing to biofilm formation include impaired immune function, medical devices, poor oral hygiene, chronic infections, and an imbalanced gut microbiome.

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What are the symptoms of Biofilm?

Symptoms of biofilm can vary depending on its location and the specific microorganisms involved. Common symptoms include pain in the affected area, fever, discharge, redness and swelling, fatigue, and recurring infections.

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Inflammation and infections caused by biofilm are the primary sources of the symptoms experienced. Also, the immune system’s response to these conditions affects the severity of the symptoms.

 

How is Biofilm treated?

Biofilms can be challenging to treat because they provide a protective environment for bacteria to survive and resist antibiotics. The treatment approach depends on the location and severity of the biofilm.

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Common treatments for biofilm infections include antibiotics, surgery, antimicrobial agents, probiotics, and photodynamic therapy.

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Infections are generally treated with antibiotics, however, bacteria in biofilm may resist their effects. Depending on the location of the biofilm, such as areas difficult to access like sinuses or implants, surgery may be required for its removal. Antimicrobial agents, such as chlorine dioxide, silver nanoparticles, or quaternary ammonium compounds, can disrupt the biofilm and destroy the bacteria. Probiotics can help to restore a healthy balance of bacteria within the body and prevent the formation of biofilms. Photodynamic therapy is a new approach that uses a combination of light and a photosensitizing agent to eliminate biofilm bacteria.

Treatment approaches for biofilm infections will depend on the specific situation and should be determined by a healthcare professional.

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How does Biofilm affect brain wellness?

Biofilms can develop in various parts of the human body, including the brain. They are generally caused by infections, or the colonization of microorganisms ordinarily found in the body.

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The presence of biofilms in the brain has been linked to various health problems, including impaired cognitive function, mood disorders, and chronic inflammation. Biofilms can release toxins that damage neurons and interfere with normal brain functioning. They can also stimulate an immune response, leading to chronic inflammation that further exacerbates brain health problems.

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Chronic sinusitis is a specific example of a biofilm-related health condition that can affect brain wellness. It is a condition in which the sinuses become inflamed and infected, leading to the formation of biofilms. The toxins released by these biofilms can travel to the brain and cause inflammation, contributing to cognitive impairment, depression, and anxiety.

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Treating infections is essential in helping limit the formation of biofilms and maintaining brain health and wellness.

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How can Brain Frequency™ help?

The Brain Frequency AI system is an innovative therapeutic approach to improving brain health and wellness. We use proprietary science-based technology to promote optimal brain functioning across mental, emotional, physical, and social domains. Our diagnostic technology and individualized treatment protocols help decrease or eliminate trauma-related symptoms and various mental health disorders.

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The Brain Frequency™ 3 Step Treatment Process consists of; first, performing a Baseline EEG and completing Psychometric Assessments; second, conducting a Brain Frequency Consultation; and third, Initiating Treatment.

An Electroencephalogram (EEG) analyzes brain waves and produces a brain map identifying current and optimal frequencies in 19 areas of the brain. Based on the individualized brain map, Brain Frequency™ will determine possible diagnoses of various mental health disorders or brain trauma for the provider to consider during treatment. Brain Frequency™ AI software provides clinicians with an "Approval Ready" treatment plan using personalized protocols based on each patient's needs.

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Those suffering from symptoms of biofilm can efficiently and effectively improve their brain health and wellness by using the Brain Frequency™ AI system. Our innovative system drastically reduces the time needed to properly diagnose and construct treatment plans leading to a faster recovery and greater quality of life.

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RESOURCES

 

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/

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Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA): https://www.hrsa.gov/

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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): https://www.nimh.nih.gov/

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Center For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/


American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org/

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National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov/

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National Suicide Prevention Line: https://988lifeline.org/

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National Library of Medicine: https://medlineplus.gov/

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Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/

 

WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/ 

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