Autoimmune Disease
By Dr Kelly
November 21, 2017
Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells, tissues, and organs. Normally, the immune system is responsible for protecting the body against foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria. However, in autoimmune diseases, the immune system cannot distinguish between healthy cells and harmful substances, leading to inflammation, tissue damage, and various symptoms.
There are more than 80 known autoimmune diseases, and they can affect different parts of the body. Some examples include:
Rheumatoid arthritis: A chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Lupus: A systemic autoimmune disease that can affect various organs and tissues, leading to symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, and kidney problems.
Multiple sclerosis: A neurological autoimmune disease that damages the protective covering of nerve cells, causing symptoms like muscle weakness, balance problems, and vision loss.
Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disease that affects the pancreas, leading to a lack of insulin production and high blood sugar levels.
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: Inflammatory bowel diseases that can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other digestive symptoms.
The exact causes of autoimmune diseases are not fully understood, but they likely involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some people may have a genetic predisposition to autoimmune disorders, while others may develop them after exposure to certain infections, toxins, or medications.
Diagnosis of autoimmune diseases can be challenging because the symptoms can be vague and variable, and there is no single test that can definitively diagnose most autoimmune disorders. Treatment usually involves managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and suppressing the immune system with medications like corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics.
Living with an autoimmune disease can be challenging, as symptoms can range from mild to severe and can affect many aspects of daily life. However, with proper management and support, many people with autoimmune diseases can lead fulfilling and productive lives.