iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/03/2025

Let's share stories. What's one experience where you felt your immune system was 'misbehaving' and how did it impact your healthcare journey?

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/03/2025

True healing starts with belief. We need to move beyond dismissing symptoms and start truly listening. How can we, as patients and professionals, foster better validation?

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/03/2025

It's more than just lab results. It's about acknowledging the reality of their symptoms, even when traditional tests come back 'normal.' Have you felt this disconnect?

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/03/2025

As an immunologist, I see patients with 'misbehaving' immune systems – allergies, deficiencies, autoimmunity, mast cell activation, dysautonomia. They often-almost universally- feel unheard. Why does our healthcare system struggle to validate their unique experiences?

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/03/2025

First full day at my new practice, The Immune Confident Institute! ✨ 4 patients=fully booked. Shifting from seeing 15+ pts/day to prioritizing time & connection. Feels rebellious, but this is how medicine should be. #slowmedicine

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/03/2025

We co-create a plan with you, not for you. Because your health is personal, and your healthcare should be too. What qualities are you searching for, in a healthcare partner? Let's talk. #Immunology #PatientEmpowerment #MedicalInnovation #HealthcareRevolution

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/03/2025

At Immune Confident Institute, we offer: * Transparency: No smoke and mirrors. Just facts and cost transparency. * Connection: We build real relationships, not just patient files. * Curiosity: We ask why, not just what.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/03/2025

👉 Swipe Right: The 'Collaborative Partner.' Tired of feeling like a transaction? We get it. I was too- both as a physician and as a Sjogren’s & dysautonomia patient.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/03/2025

👈 Swipe Left: The 'Supplement Salesperson.' They'll validate your feelings, which is a breath of fresh air. But the 'miracle cures'? Often frought with questionable science and even more questionable financial ties. 💰 You're stuck between a rock and a hard place: validation vs. being a walking ATM.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/03/2025

👈 Swipe Left: The 'Protocol Perfectionist.' They're in-network and efficient! You'll be in and out in 10 minutes, with a prescription and a pat on the back. Personalization? What's that? ✨Efficiency!✨ #MedicalPractice

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/03/2025

If finding a decent healthcare provider feels like a dating app disaster, you're not alone. 😩 The 'profiles' are all over the place – some are red flags, some are just... underwhelming. So, how do you find someone who truly understands your immune health? #mastcell #autoimmune #sjogrens

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 18/03/2025

📖 What other books have shifted your perspective as a healthcare pro? Drop your recommendations below! 👇 Let's give Kristina's incredible work some love! 4/4 #ChronicIllness #PatientAdvocacy #MedEd #BookRecs #Sjogrens #Dysautonomia

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 18/03/2025

🧑🏻‍⚕️ Fellow docs & healthcare profs, READ THIS. It'll make you see patients in a whole new light. Trust me, your patients (and your practice) will thank you. 3/4

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 18/03/2025

🔨Seriously, this book nails the frustrating diagnostic delays and the daily grind of chronic illness. But it's not all tears – there's real humor and hope woven in. 💖 2/4

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 18/03/2025

Double duty: patient with Sjögren's & dysautonomia AND a physician. Just finished "Being a Badass in a Broken Healthcare System" by @kppatientadvocate.bsky.social 🤯 It's like she wrote my life story... but also gave me a manual for how to be a better doc. 😅 🧵1/4

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 06/03/2025

During the open house, I'll be answering YOUR questions about: -Our unique membership model -Personalized approaches to care -How we tackle allergies, autoimmunity, and inflammation -Innovations in immunotherapy Don't miss out!

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 06/03/2025

I'm Dr. Kara Wada, 4x boarded allergy/immunology & lifestyle med doc ➡️ Sjogren’s & dysautonomia patient. I'm excited to invite you to our Immune Confident Institute Open House! We'll be diving into personalized care and how we can help you achieve optimal immune wellness. 👩‍⚕️

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 06/03/2025

Have questions about your immune system health? 🤔 You're not alone! Many people struggle with misbehaving immune systems- allergies, asthma, autoimmunity, chronic inflammation. Join our FREE virtual open house to get answers! 👇

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/02/2025

How can we create a healthcare system that better supports patients with complex symptoms? Let's discuss. #HealthcareInnovation #PatientCenteredCare #MedicalCommunity

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/02/2025

"Under the right circumstances, microglia can be coaxed back into being angelic healers..." - "The Angel and the Assassin." There's hope for healing! ❤️‍🩹 #Neuroscience #HealingJourney #Hope

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/02/2025

To understand the science behind sx like "brain fog," I recommend reading "The Angel and the Assassin." It explores microglia & their role in connecting physical & mental health & completely turned my world as an immunologist & autoimmune pt 🙃. #Microglia #BrainHealth #TheAngelAndTheAssassin

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/02/2025

Too often, patient concerns are brushed off or blamed on hormones, weight, gender. This knee-jerk reaction creates healthcare trauma & breaks down trust. #MedicalBias #PatientSafety #Trust

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/02/2025

Imagine trying to describe word-finding difficulties, attention or memory issues in a 10-15 minute appointment. It's tough! Often, it puts the patient AND the doc in an activated or fight/flight type state. #PatientVoice #CognitiveHealth #HealthcareTrauma

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/02/2025

The US insurance-based system makes complex, time-consuming symptoms like "brain fog”, fatigue and “not feeling like myself” incredibly challenging. But that doesn't diminish the patient's reality. #HealthcareReform #PatientExperience

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 27/02/2025

"Brain fog" overload! 🤯 As a physician, are you feeling overwhelmed by these non-specific symptoms? 🧵👇 #PCPStruggles #BrainFog #MedicalBurnout

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

Are you ready to take back control of your health? Let’s talk. 💚 Scheduling Ohio-based patients now. Maryland, Colorado & Florida coming soon.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

More than the every 6-12 month, 10-15 minute check the boxes type visits that your insurance company insist your allergist or rheumatologist stick to. Thats why I partner directly with my patients.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

Your immune system isn’t your enemy. With the right approach, you can shift from frustration to freedom. But the reality is that this level of care and connection take time.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

Step 3: Living with Immune Confidence 💪 This is the ultimate goal—to empower you to live vibrantly. As you progress, you’ll experience: ✨ Symptom relief (less fatigue, fewer flares) ✨ A deeper understanding of your immune system ✨ Confidence—you’re in the driver’s seat of your health

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

Step 2: Crafting Your Personal Wellness Roadmap Once we understand your story, we create a flexible plan that includes: ✅ Lifestyle changes (nutrition, stress management, movement) ✅ Targeted supplements (if needed) ✅ Medications (when necessary) Your plan evolves as you do.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

But most importantly—we talk about your values. What does true wellness mean to you? Some want more energy to play with their kids. Others want to minimize long term risks like heart disease. Your goals shape your plan. Because you are the expert on your life.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

Step 1: Understanding Your Immune Story We go beyond a quick glance at your medical chart. Instead, we deeply explore your lived experiences including: 🔍 Environmental factors 🥦 Nutrition 🩸 Infections/inflammation

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

The Immune Confident Approach is built on three key values: curiosity, compassion, and connection. It’s not about chasing symptoms—it’s about understanding your unique immune story and building a plan that works for you. Here’s how:

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

Autoimmune issues like Sjogrens, lupus, hives, and allergic conditions may look similar on the surface, but no two people experience them the same way. That’s why a personalized approach is essential. 🧵👇

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 24/02/2025

Your body speaks through your immune system. Listen closely. Respond thoughtfully. Heal deeply.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 17/02/2025

The Immune Confident Institute-a direct care holistic allergy & immune system practice that goes above & beyond- will be opening its virtual doors for Ohio telehealth appts on 3/3. Join the waitlist: www.drkarawada.com/immune-confi...

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 17/02/2025

Understanding your immunity is complex. If you have concerns about your vaccine protection, consult an allergist/immunologist. We can help you understand your immune status and make informed decisions about your health. #vaccines #immunology #health

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 17/02/2025

Important note about vaccine titers: They're not always a perfect predictor of long-term immunity. Cellular memory, crucial for protection, isn't measured by routine antibody tests. That's why your vaccination history is so vital!

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 17/02/2025

It starts with a thorough history – reviewing vaccine records and past infections. This history is KEY to understanding your immune response over time. Lab testing, including looking at cellular and humoral immunity, is also important, but it's not the whole story.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 17/02/2025

We're in an era where vaccine effectiveness is top of mind. Many are asking: "How do I know if my vaccines are still working?" As an immunologist, I evaluate immune systems, especially in those with infection-prone or suspected immune deficiencies. Let's discuss how we assess vaccine protection. 🧵

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 02/02/2025

Read it all… Will be writing more about my personal experiences with ALL of this as a physician caring for patients with chronic complex immunologic conditions AND as a patient with one.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/01/2025

Fun fact: she attended medical school but couldn’t finish due to chronic pain from tuberculosis of the spine. An OG spoonie changing the world! #spoonie

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/01/2025

“I’m inspired by Jane Addams—once called the ‘most dangerous woman in America’ by J. Edgar Hoover. She was a Nobel Peace Prize winner, founder of Hull House and the field of social work, and a fellow @rockforduniversity.bsky.social alum (125 years before me!).

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/01/2025

If you could pick anyone—alive or passed on—who inspires you the most, who would it be and why? I’d love to hear about the people who’ve left a mark on your heart or shaped how you see the world. 💭 I’ll share mine in the pic & below!

A smiling white 40 year old woman wearing a navy sweater hand embroidered with “give a damn” in green holding a playing card with Jane Addams on it.

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/01/2025

The air we breathe, the food we eat, and the context in which our immune systems operate (think microbiome and barrier health) are all different—and we’re also more disconnected from nature and social support than ever. It’s a lot to unpack. 🫠 3/3

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/01/2025

So much has changed. Over the past several generations, our lifestyle has shifted dramatically from the one we evolved to thrive in. Many of these changes have improved survival through childhood and acute injuries, but we’re now grappling with the long-term effects on our immune systems. 2/3

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/01/2025

Resharing from PrettySickLupusChick— She asked thoughts? Mine 👇 1/3

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Kara Wada MD FAAAAI, DiplABLM @immuneconfidentmd.bsky.social · 25/01/2025

Sjögren’s is systemic. Nearly universally it causes fatigue and pain & can cause interstitial lung disease, dysautonomia, gastric motility issues, liver and kidney disease and so much more. It deserves to be recognized for the serious condition it is. Where are my fellow Sjogies & allies? 3/3

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