Autoimmune diseases happen when the body’s defense system, called the immune system, mistakenly attacks healthy parts of the body. There are many types of autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and celiac disease.
These diseases can affect nearly every area of the body. In the United States, around 24 million people have autoimmune diseases, and about 8 million more have markers in their blood that make them more likely to get one of these diseases.
Some common examples of autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, lupus, Grave’s disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and type 1 diabetes.
Causes
An autoimmune disease happens when the body’s defense system, called the immune system, gets confused and starts attacking healthy parts of the body instead of fighting off harmful germs like viruses and bacteria. Scientists are still figuring out exactly why this happens, but they think things like genes, past infections, and stuff in the environment might play a role.
To help manage autoimmune diseases, doctors use treatments that calm down the overactive immune system. Unlike when you have a bacterial infection, antibiotics don’t help because these diseases aren’t caused by bacteria.
Symptoms
Each autoimmune disease can make the body feel different. They can show up with different signs and can bother different parts of the body. But there are some symptoms that lots of these diseases share, such as:
- Redness, swelling, or puffiness, especially in lighter skin
- Pain
- Feeling tired all the time
- Joints feeling stiff
- Weak muscles
- Rashes on the skin
- Trouble breathing
- Having a fever
- Not feeling hungry
Risk Factors
Risk factors for autoimmune diseases can vary, but particular factors can increase the chances of developing one. Genetics plays a role, as some autoimmune diseases tend to run in families. This means that someone might inherit genes that make them more likely to get a certain disease, although they might only grow it if they’re exposed to certain triggers.
Environmental factors such as sunlight, chemicals, and infections can also play a part in the development of these diseases.
Gender is another factor, as autoimmune diseases are more common in females. Hormonal factors are believed to be involved, as these diseases often appear during a woman’s reproductive age. Race can also influence the likelihood and severity of autoimmune diseases. For instance, type 1 diabetes is more common in white people, while lupus tends to be more severe in Hispanic and African American individuals. Additionally, having one autoimmune disorder can increase the chance of developing another.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing autoimmune diseases can be tricky and may take a long time. Sometimes, it can even take years to figure out what’s going on. This is because:
- Symptoms might not all show up at once.
- Symptoms can come and go or gradually get worse over time.
- Some symptoms can be similar to other problems, especially with other autoimmune diseases.
For example, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can both affect the joints, but lupus symptoms are usually less severe. Similarly, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and celiac disease can have similar symptoms, but they’re caused by different things.
Doctors usually start with blood tests to help with the diagnosis. These tests can show if something is wrong, like if there’s inflammation in the body or if certain antibodies are present. But sometimes, these tests might show a problem even before someone has symptoms.
Doctors may also look at things like family history and how symptoms have been over time. Sometimes, they might even recommend seeing a specialist, like an endocrinologist for problems with the thyroid or a rheumatologist for joint and muscle issues.
It’s also okay to get a second or third opinion to make sure the diagnosis is right. This way, people can get the best care possible for their specific situation.
Treatment
Treating autoimmune diseases doesn’t mean getting rid of them completely, but it can help manage the symptoms, slow down how fast they get worse, and make life better.
Different treatments work for different diseases, but some common ones include:
Relieving Symptoms
This means taking medicines like aspirin or ibuprofen to help with mild pain and swelling. Sometimes, doctors might prescribe other medicines for things like depression, anxiety, or sleep problems. Eating healthy and exercising regularly can also make a big difference.
Taking Replacement Drugs
Some autoimmune diseases stop the body from making important stuff it needs, like insulin for type 1 diabetes or thyroid hormone for thyroid disease. So, people might need to take medicines to replace these things. For example, they might have to inject insulin or take pills with an artificial version of thyroid hormone.
Taking Immunosuppressants
These are medicines that help calm down the immune system, which can help with the symptoms and slow down how fast the disease gets worse. But, these medicines can have side effects, so it’s important to work closely with the doctor.
By using these treatments, people with autoimmune diseases can feel better and live their lives more comfortably.
Prevention
Preventing an autoimmune disease might not be possible, but detecting it early and starting treatment can make a big difference. For example, if someone is known to be at risk, regular screenings can help catch the disease at an early stage.
Managing triggers that can cause the immune system to react is also important. Avoiding these triggers can help reduce symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Common triggers include certain foods, infections, stress and smoking. By being mindful of these factors, individuals can better manage their condition and improve their quality of life.
Managing the Autoimmune disease
Coping with an autoimmune disease can be challenging since each disease is different and can have varying symptoms. These symptoms can sometimes be very severe and impact daily life. It’s crucial to see a doctor regularly and follow their advice and treatment plans.
In addition to medical care, making healthy lifestyle choices can help manage symptoms. Eating a healthy diet and regular physical activity, when possible, can make a big difference. It’s important to know your limits and make sure to rest when needed to avoid overexertion.
Maintaining your usual activities is possible for many people, but it’s essential to recognize when to take breaks and care for yourself.
Talking about how the disease affects your life with family, friends, or a support group can be very helpful. Organizations like the Autoimmune Association offer various support resources to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
Summary
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing various symptoms and affecting different body parts. They can be difficult to diagnose and manage, requiring regular medical care and tailored treatments. Risk factors include genetics, environmental triggers, gender, and race.
Treatment focuses on symptom relief, replacement drugs, and immunosuppressants. Early detection through screenings is crucial for better outcomes. Managing the disease involves healthy lifestyle choices, knowing personal limits, and seeking support from loved ones and organizations like the Autoimmune Association.
