Our immune system acts as the body’s defence system and fights against infections and harmful invaders. It protects us from disease and infection by kicking out bacteria, viruses and germs that enter our body. A healthy immune system can tell the difference between healthy cells and foreign cells. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s natural immune system fails and starts attacking healthy cells instead of foreign cells. There are 80 kinds of autoimmune diseases, and a person can have more than one autoimmune disease at the same time. It affects many parts of the body such as blood vessels, tissues, muscles, joints, skin etc. It weakens the bodily functions and can sometimes be life-threatening.
Common symptoms of autoimmune diseases
The symptoms of autoimmune diseases vary from person to person, and depending on the parts they are affecting. Here are 8 common symptoms that are seen across autoimmune diseases:
- Redness, swelling & inflammation
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Sensitivity to certain foods
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Recurring Fever
- Skin rashes
- Numbness in hands and feet
- Bloating
Causes
The cause of autoimmune disease remains a mystery but an overactive immune system attacking the body after an injection or injury is said to be one. Gender and ethnicity are also said to play a role in autoimmune diseases. Particularly, there are certain risk factors that might lead to autoimmune diseases such as
Genetic factors: A family history of autoimmune diseases increases the risk of developing the disease. Diseases like lupus and multiple sclerosis (MS) run in the gene.
Weight: Obesity and overweight increase your risk of psoriatic Arthritis since the weight puts more pressure on the joints.
Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing various diseases such as lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, and hyperthyroidism.
Usage of certain medications: Blood pressure medications can trigger diseases like lupus. Myopathy
Common autoimmune diseases
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Lupus
- Psoriasis
- Type 1 diabetes
- Myopathy
- Crohn’s disease
Diagnosis of autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases are difficult and take longer to diagnose since the symptoms overlap with each other. Symptoms of the diseases are very similar. Therefore, providing a family history and a detailed list of symptoms may help in the diagnosing process. Some of the tests that help in diagnosing are
- Anti-nuclear Antibody (ANA) Test
- Antibody Test
- Complete Blood Count Tests
- C-reactive Protein (CRP)
How to manage life with autoimmune diseases?
Living with an autoimmune disease is hard but here are a few measures you can take to reduce the symptoms and lead a full and active life.
Prioritize a healthy diet
There is no greater medicine than food. Eating a healthy, well-balanced, plant-based diet is the first step to managing any disease. It demands a plant-based diet since it causes inflammation. Therefore, make sure to include lots of fruits and veggies in your diet.
Engage in Physical therapy
Physical therapy can manage symptoms and increase mobility. Specialized physiotherapists can provide exercises and techniques to address specific disease.
Reduce anxiety and stress
Anxiety and stress can trigger symptoms in some cases. Therefore it’s important to identify triggers and find ways to reduce stress. Being in a calm and nurturing environment can particularly have a positive impact on your overall well-being.
Consider Supplements
Depending on the nature of the disease, supplements might be prescribed to cope with the symptoms. Generally Vitamin D supplements can reduce inflammation.
Protect yourself from the sun
Exposure to the sun can trigger flares in some autoimmune diseases. Therefore, limiting your time in the sun, and wearing sunscreen and protective gear can reduce the risk.
Get enough rest
Sufficient is important for managing autoimmune diseases since it gives enough time for your body tissues and joints to repair. Adequate sleep is essential for overall well-being. Insufficient sleep can worsen symptoms and induce stress.
Managing an autoimmune disease is a lifelong journey, however, Identifying the symptoms early, taking measures to reduce the symptoms and working closely with your doctor can effectively manage the condition and improve the quality of life.
