Autoimmune Diseases

Understanding Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body. In some cases, this attack is focused on a specific area or organ; in others, it can affect multiple systems or the entire body. While the exact causes remain unknown, the rising incidence of autoimmune conditions suggests that environmental factors—such as exposure to heavy metals, chemicals in personal hygiene products and detergents, and chronic inflammation from processed foods—may play a role. Genetic factors, including mutated genes, can also contribute to the development of these diseases.

There are many types of autoimmune diseases. Some of the most common include rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, Addison’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Hashimoto’s disease, Grave’s disease, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), and vasculitis.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases:

• Persistent Fatigue:

  • A constant feeling of tiredness that is not relieved by rest.

• Joint and Muscle Pain:

  • Pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints and muscles, which may vary depending on the specific disease.

• Skin Changes:

  • Rashes, discoloration, or other dermatological manifestations, such as those seen in psoriasis or lupus.

• Fever and Malaise:

  • Low-grade fever and a general feeling of being unwell during disease flares.

• Digestive Issues:

  • Abdominal pain, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly in autoimmune conditions like IBD.

• Organ-Specific Symptoms:

  • Depending on the affected organ system, symptoms may include thyroid dysfunction (in Hashimoto’s or Grave’s disease), neurological symptoms (in multiple sclerosis or CIDP), or inflammation in blood vessels (in vasculitis).

This information is provided as a resource and is not intended to diagnose a condition or prescribe treatment. Please discuss any symptoms you may exhibit with your physician.