Autoimmune diseases or disorders, their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, medications, and their side effects, and home remedies (April 2025):

 

What is the immune system?

Our immune system is a large network of organs, white blood cells, proteins, and chemicals. These parts all work together to protect us from germs and other invaders. It also helps our body heal from infections and injuries. The various organs, tissues, and cells of our immune system are distributed throughout our body. They all work together to help keep us healthy.

Functions of the immune system: Our immune system works hard to keep us healthy. It does this by: Keeping invaders (like germs) out of our bodies. Destroying invaders. Limiting how much harm the invaders can do if they’re inside our bodies. Healing damage to your body. Adapting to new challenges and threats. Who are invaders of our body? Our immune system protects us against invaders, such list includes: Bacteria. Viruses. Fungi that can cause infections. Parasites. Cancer cells.

How does the immune system work? When our immune system is working properly, it: Tells the difference between cells that are ours and those that don’t belong to our body. Activates and mobilizes to kill germs that may harm you. Ends an attack once the threat is gone. Learns about germs after you’ve had contact with them and develops antibodies against them. Sends out antibodies to destroy germs that try to enter your body in the future. But things don’t always go this smoothly. Sometimes, our immune system doesn’t work properly. For example, it may be too weak to fight off invaders, or it may launch too strong of a response.

Weak immune system: Many different conditions can weaken our immune system and make us more susceptible to infection. Conditions at birth are less common than those that develop later in life, like Type 2 diabetes and cancer. Overactive immune system: At the other end of the spectrum, your immune system may react too strongly to invaders (real or perceived). It may mount an attack when there’s no invader. Or it may keep attacking after getting rid of an invader. An overactive immune system can lead to problems like autoimmune diseases or allergic reactions.

The main component of Immune systems:

Many parts of our body, including immune system organs and cells, work together to keep us healthy.  The main components of our immune system are described below: White blood cells: These immune system cells attack and eliminate harmful germs to keep you healthy. There are many types of white blood cells, and each type has a specific mission in your body’s defense system. Each type also has a different way of recognizing a problem, communicating with other cells, and getting their job done. Antibodies: These proteins protect us from invaders by binding to them and initiating their destruction. Cytokines: These proteins serve as chemical messengers that tell our immune cells where to go and what to do. Different types of cytokines do different specific tasks,  like regulating inflammation. Inflammation happens when your immune cells are warding off invaders or healing damage to your tissues. Complement system: This is a group of proteins that teams up with other cells in our body to defend against invaders and promote healing from an injury or infection. Lymph nodes: These small, bean-shaped organs are like colanders we use to drain pasta. They filter waste products from the fluid that drains from our tissues and cells (lymph) while keeping the good components, like nutrients. You have hundreds of lymph nodes throughout our body, and they’re a vital part of  our lymphatic system.   Spleen: This organ stores white blood cells that defend our body from invaders. It also filters our blood, recycling old and damaged cells to make new ones. Tonsils and adenoids: Located in your throat and nasal passage, tonsils, and adenoids can trap invaders (like bacteria or viruses) as soon as they enter your body. Thymus: This small organ helps T-cells (a specific type of white blood cell) mature before they travel elsewhere in your body to protect you. Bone marrow: This soft, fatty tissue inside our bones is like a factory for our blood cells. It makes the blood cells our body needs to survive, including white blood cells that support our immune system. Skin: Our skin is a protective barrier that helps stop germs from entering our body. It produces oils and releases other protective immune system cells. Mucosa: This three-layered membrane lines cavities and organs throughout your body. It secretes mucus that captures invaders, like germs, for our body to then clear out.

What are Innate immunity and acquired (adaptive) immunity? Innate immunity is protection that you’re born with. Your innate immune system is part of your body’s first-line defense against bacteria and viruses. These defenses include cells and molecules located at sites of entry for foreign invaders (the nose, lungs, gut, and skin). Immune cells make molecules called cytokines to communicate between different parts of the body. These cytokines, such as Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF), Interleukin-1 (IL-1), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) can be targeted to treat autoimmune disease, where the immune system attacks the body’s cells. It responds to invaders right away by attacking any organism that shouldn’t be in your body. It doesn’t need prior training to tell the difference between cells that belong in our body and those that don’t. The white blood cells involved in innate immunity don’t learn to recognize certain invaders. They also have no memory of attacking invaders and don’t offer protection against specific germs (or the infections they cause) in the future. That’s where acquired immunity comes into play. Acquired immunity, also called adaptive or specific immunity, is protection our body gains (acquires) over time from exposure to germs. Two types of white blood cells called T cells (T lymphocytes) and B cells ( B lymphocytes) are important parts of adaptive immunity. When the body sees a new bacteria or virus, it makes T cells and B cells that recognize the invader and help the body to get rid of the infection. If the immune system is working well, the body then remembers that bacteria or virus after fighting off the first infection. Parts of the adaptive immune system are also targets to treat autoimmune diseases. We have medications to remove B cells and to slow down B cells and T cells.  Some cytokines such as interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-12 (IL-12), and interleukin-23 (IL-23) are important for adaptive immunity as well. Certain white blood cells called lymphocytes remember specific invaders and can tell when they don’t belong in our body. So, if those invaders try to get in again, the lymphocytes can quickly spring into action and work with other cells to eliminate the threat. Vaccines support our acquired immunity by training its cells to identify and destroy invaders before they make us sick.

Immune system malfunction: Immune system cells called T lymphocytes (T cells) use special receptors on their surfaces to identify foreign microbes, such as bacteria and viruses. Usually, T cells that react to the tissues of the body are destroyed by the thymus, an organ of the immune system located behind the breastbone. The 'self-attacking' T cells that escape destruction may be activated by a trigger. The exact triggers are unknown, but viral infections and hormones are among the suspects. The rogue T cells then instruct B lymphocytes (B cells) to make antibodies against the particular tissue, organ, or system. Such antibodies are called 'autoantibodies'.

What are autoimmune diseases or autoimmune disorders? Autoimmune diseases are health conditions that happen when our immune system attacks our body instead of defending it. We sometimes call them autoimmune disorders. Usually, our immune system is like our body’s built-in security system. It automatically detects substances that shouldn’t be in our body (like viruses, bacteria or toxins) and sends out white blood cells to eliminate them before they can damage our body or make us sick. If you have an autoimmune disease, your immune system is more active than it should be. Because there aren’t invaders to attack, your immune system turns on your body and damages healthy tissue. The immune system must first recognize foreign or dangerous substances before it can defend the body against them. Such substances include bacteria, viruses, parasites (such as worms), certain cancer cells, and even transplanted organs and tissues. These substances have molecules that the immune system can identify and that can stimulate a response by the immune system. These molecules are called antigens. Antigens may be contained within cells or on the surface of cells (such as bacteria or cancer cells) or be part of a virus. Some antigens, such as pollen or food molecules, exist on their own. When certain white blood cells (B cells and T cells) encounter an antigen, they learn how to attack it and thus defend the body from the potentially dangerous antigen. B cells produce antibodies, which are one of the body's main immune defenses against antigens. Antibodies tightly bind to a specific antigen and tag it for attack or directly neutralize it. The body produces thousands of different antibodies. Each antibody is specific to a particular antigen. Cells of the immune system remember the specific antigen so that they can attack it even more efficiently the next time they encounter it. Cells in a person's tissues also have antigens. But normally, the immune system reacts only to antigens from foreign or dangerous substances, not to antigens from a person's tissues. However, the immune system sometimes malfunctions, interpreting the body's tissues as foreign and producing antibodies (called autoantibodies) or immune cells that target and attack particular cells or tissues of the body. This response is called an autoimmune reaction. It results in inflammation and tissue damage. Such effects may constitute an autoimmune disorder, but many people produce such small amounts of autoantibodies that an autoimmune disorder does not occur.  Having autoantibodies in the blood does not mean that a person has an autoimmune disorder. Our immune system has the job of protecting us from diseases and infections. When it senses these germs, it creates new cells to target foreign cells. Usually, our immune system can tell the difference between foreign cells and your cells. However, if you have an autoimmune disease, your immune system mistakes parts of your body, such as your joints or skin, as foreign. It releases proteins called autoantibodies that attack healthy cells. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, organs, or cells. Instead of defending the body from infections, the immune system targets healthy components, leading to inflammation and damage.  Understanding these conditions is essential for early diagnosis and effective management.

Imagination for autoimmune diseases or autoimmune disorders: Imagine your body is a castle and your immune system is an army fighting off invaders like germs. If the army malfunctions and attacks the castle itself, you may have an autoimmune disease. Like a home security system that guards against intruders and sounds the alarm when needed, your immune system is on-call and ready to signal for help when it perceives a threat. The cells and organs of your immune system work together to locate, identify, and remove germs and other invaders to keep you safe and healthy. But guarding isn’t your immune system’s only duty. Its crew also heals the damage that intruders cause, just like you’d need someone to repair a broken window or door. But even the best security system can malfunction sometimes. Autoimmune diseases or other conditions can disrupt your body’s ability to defend itself against intruders or repair damage. That’s why it’s important to see a healthcare provider regularly for checkups.

Causes of autoimmune diseases:

Who is affecting the immune system? Health conditions and disorders that can interfere with the normal workings of your immune system include: Allergies. An allergy is your body’s reaction to a substance that’s normally harmless. Your immune system overreacts to the presence of that substance, leading to a range of symptoms from mild to severe. Autoimmune diseases. These conditions occur when your immune system attacks its healthy cells by mistake. Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are examples of common autoimmune diseases. Primary immunodeficiency diseases. These inherited conditions prevent your immune system from working properly. They make you more vulnerable to infections and certain diseases. Infectious diseases. Infectious diseases happen when germs enter your body, replicate, and cause damage. HIV and mononucleosis (mono) are examples of infectious diseases that weaken your immune system and can lead to serious illness. Cancer. Certain types of cancer, like leukemia and lymphoma, can weaken your immune system. That’s because cancer cells may grow in your bone marrow or spread there from somewhere else. Cancer cells in your bone marrow interfere with the normal production of blood cells you need to fight infection. Sepsis. Sepsis is an extreme immune response to infection. Your immune system starts damaging healthy tissues and organs. This causes potentially life-threatening inflammation throughout your body.

What causes autoimmune diseases?

Doctors don’t know exactly what causes the immune system to misfire. Yet some people are more likely to get an autoimmune disease than others.   The risk factors for developing autoimmune diseases: Some studies have found that certain factors (triggers) might increase our risk of developing an autoimmune disease. Some triggers may include: Gender: People assigned female at birth between the ages of 15 and 44 are more likely to get an autoimmune disease than people assigned male at birth. Around three-quarters of people with autoimmune disorders are women. Sex hormones – Autoimmune disorders tend to strike during the childbearing years. Some disorders seem to be affected, for better or worse, by major hormonal changes such as pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Genetics – Autoimmune diseases tend to be hereditary.  A predisposition to autoimmune disorders seems to run in families, which means that certain genes may make some people more likely to develop a problem. However, family members can be affected by different disorders; for example, one person may have diabetes, while another has rheumatoid arthritis. It seems that genetic susceptibility alone is not enough to trigger an autoimmune reaction, and other environmental factors must contribute.   Environmental factors:  A family's susceptibility to autoimmune disorders may be linked to common environmental factors, perhaps working in conjunction with genetic factors. They include: Certain bacterial and viral infections, including COVID-19 and Epstein-Barr virus. Exposure to sunlight, mercury, chemicals like solvents or those used in agriculture, Certain kinds of pollution or other environmental factors (aspects of where you live or work that impact your health) might trigger autoimmune diseases. Smoking and using other types of tobacco can cause many health issues, including potentially triggering autoimmune diseases. Ethnicity: Some autoimmune diseases are more common in people in certain groups. For example, White people from Europe and the United States may be more likely to develop autoimmune muscle disease, while lupus tends to occur more in people who are African American, Hispanic, or Latino. Nutrition: Our diet and nutrients may impact the risk and severity of autoimmune disease. Other health conditions: Certain health conditions, including obesity, and medications may make us more likely to develop an autoimmune disease. Having one autoimmune disease can increase the odds of developing another one (multiple autoimmune syndrome).

Autoimmune reactions can be triggered in several ways: A normal body substance is altered, for example, by a virus, medication, sunlight, or radiation. The altered substance may then appear foreign to the immune system. For example, a virus can infect and thus alter cells in the body. The virus-infected cells stimulate the immune system to attack. A foreign substance that resembles a natural body substance may enter the body. The immune system may inadvertently target a similar body substance as well as a foreign substance. For example, the bacteria that cause strep throat have an antigen that is similar to an antigen in human heart cells. Rarely, the immune system attacks a person's heart after strep throat (this reaction is part of rheumatic fever). The cells that control antibody production—for example, B cells (a type of white blood cell)—may malfunction and produce abnormal antibodies that attack some of the body's cells. T cells, another type of white blood cell that is involved in the immune response, may also malfunction and damage the body's cells. A substance in the body that is normally confined to a specific area (and thus is hidden from the immune system) is released into the bloodstream. For example, a blow to the eye can cause the fluid in the eyeball to be released into the bloodstream. The fluid stimulates the immune system to identify the eye as foreign and attack it. Why something triggers an autoimmune reaction or disorder in one person (and not another) is usually unknown. However, heredity is sometimes involved. Some people have genes that make them slightly more likely to develop an autoimmune disorder. This slightly increased susceptibility to an autoimmune disorder, rather than the disorder itself, is inherited. In susceptible people, a trigger, such as a viral infection or tissue damage, may cause the disorder to develop. Many autoimmune disorders are more common among women.

Types of autoimmune disorders:

There are more than 100 different autoimmune diseases.  They can affect almost any tissue or organ in our body, depending on where our immune system malfunctions. It includes: Joints. Muscles. Skin and connective tissue. Blood vessels. Digestive system. Endocrine system (Hormones). Nervous system. Now we will try to understand more about them as under:

Autoimmune Diseases, their symptoms, and treatment:

Autoimmune diseases that affect the joints and muscles: Some autoimmune conditions affecting the joints are described below: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): A form of arthritis that affects the joints. While RA more commonly affects people as they get older, it can also start as early as your 30s. A related condition, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, can start in childhood. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the lining of the joints (synovium), causing inflammation and discomfort. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect many joints, but it commonly affects the hands, wrists, and knees on both sides of the body. Symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Symptoms include swollen and deformed joints. The main symptoms are mild joint pain, swelling or stiffness, and fatigue. The joints may be hot and painful. The areas most affected are the wrists, knees, fingers, and ankles. The eyes, lungs, and heart may also be targeted. Symptoms also include: Stiffness in multiple joints, especially in the morning Tenderness  Fever Weakness Weight loss Eye inflammation Lung disease Lumps of tissue under the skin, often near the elbows (rheumatoid nodules) Anemia. Treatment: Doctors tend to treat this condition using antirheumatic drugs, including biologics, that slow disease progression and prevent joint deformity. == Systemic lupus erythematosus (Lupus): It affects connective tissue and can strike any organ system of the body, the most common being the skin and joints. This may be difficult to diagnose since it manifests as outbreaks. Symptoms depend on each case, but the main symptoms include joint inflammation/pain, muscle pain, fever, weight loss, hair loss,and a characteristic facial rash.  In addition, there is often atypical coloring on the face, especially on the nose and cheeks. Conditions that affect your muscles can cause muscle weakness. Some autoimmune conditions affect your vision. == The other condition is called Myositis or polymyositis. .

Autoimmune diseases that affect the blood: Hemolytic anemia: Hemolytic anemia occurs when the immune system destroys a person’s red blood cells. This causes an oxygen deficiency. Symptoms: Hemolytic anemia occurs when the immune system destroys a person’s red blood cells. This causes an oxygen deficiency, leading to symptoms such as Weakness Lethargy Dizziness Headache Shortness of breath Cardiovascular problems, including heart failure Cold hands or feet Yellow skin or whites of the eyes. Treatment: Doctors treat hemolytic anemia with corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation, and immunosuppressant drugs, which lower immune system activity. A doctor might also consider a splenectomy, which refers to the surgical removal of the spleen. The spleen removes damaged red blood cells from circulation, so by removing it, a person is less likely to have low red blood cell levels. However, autoimmune processes can also affect other blood cells. When they affect platelets, it can lead to thrombocytopenia. When they affect white blood cells, it can give rise to leukopenia, lymphopenia, and neutropenia.

Autoimmune conditions affecting the skin and blood vessels: The following autoimmune conditions are generally affecting the skin: Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis: It affects the skin.   Skin cells grow and then shed when they’re no longer needed.  Psoriasis causes skin cells to multiply too quickly. The extra cells build up and form patches of flaky, inflamed skin. This occurs due to the skin producing too many new skin cells. Psoriasis is usually not a serious condition, but it can be painful or distressing. The symptoms of psoriasis include: Thick, inflamed, reddened patches of skin, usually on the head, elbows, and knees. Scaly skin. Itching. Pain. Poor sleep quality. On lighter skin tones, patches may appear red with silver-white scales of plaque. On darker skin tones, psoriasis may appear purplish or dark brown with gray scales. People with psoriasis sometimes also develop psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint inflammation. This affects roughly 20% to 30% of people with psoriasis. Treatment: It includes biologics, methotrexate, topical ointments,  and UV light therapy. == Vitiligo: Vitiligo is a chronic condition that causes the skin to lose its color. One type of vitiligo, called non-segmental vitiligo, is an autoimmune disease. Dermatologists believe that it occurs when the immune system attacks melanocytes, which are cells that produce melanin. It is not uncommon for vitiligo to occur alongside other autoimmune conditions, such as lupus and Sjogren’s syndrome. The symptoms of vitiligo include: White or light patches of skin on the hands, feet, arms, and face. White or gray hair on the scalp, brows, or eyelashes. Discoloration on the inside of the mouth and nose. Treatment: Vitiligo is not harmful to the body, but it can be very distressing for some people, especially those with darker skin. Certain treatments can slow or stop the discoloration, including medications and UV light therapy. == Scleroderma: It affects the skin and other structures, causing the formation of scar tissue. Features include thickening of the skin, skin ulcers and stiff joints. Scleroderma causes an abnormal growth of connective tissue in the skin and blood vessels, leading to skin that is hard and thick. In some people, the condition is mild, but in others, scleroderma can affect internal organs and be life-threatening. Symptoms of Scleroderma include: Leading to skin that is hard and thick. Skin ulcers, and stiff joints. Raynaud’s phenomenon, causes the fingers to change color when they are cold. Calcium deposits in the connective tissues Thickening and tightness of the skin on the fingers and toes Loss of motility in the esophagus may make it difficult to swallow. Red spots or blood vessels on the face. Progressive shortness of breath. Ulcers on the fingertips, which can lead to gangrene. Treatment of Scleroderma: There is currently no cure for scleroderma. Treatment is directed at managing symptoms and complications. Sometimes, a doctor may also recommend immunosuppressants, especially for fibrosing (scarring) lung disease. == Sjögren syndrome (Sjögren disease): This condition attacks the glands that provide lubrication to our eyes and mouth. Symptoms: This condition attacks the glands that provide lubrication to our eyes and mouth. The hallmark symptoms of Sjögren disease are dry eyes and dry mouth, but it may also affect your joints or skin. == Alopecia areata: It is an autoimmune disease of the skin that causes hair loss. == Other conditions include: Vasculitis Rheumatoid vasculitis. Urticarial vasculitis. Dermatomyositis.

Autoimmune diseases that affect the digestive system: Some autoimmune conditions affecting the digestive system are described below: Celiac disease In celiac disease, a person’s immune system reacts to gluten, which is a protein that foods such as bread, pasta, and barley contain. People with celiac disease can’t eat foods containing gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and other grain products. When gluten is in the small intestine, the immune system attacks this part of the GI tract and causes inflammation. Symptoms of Celiac disease include: Abdominal bloating and pain. Chronic diarrhea. Constipation. Weight loss. Fatigue. Joint pain. Missed menstrual periods. An itchy rash. Treatment: Repeated exposure to gluten may damage the intestinal lining. However, most people with celiac disease can prevent these symptoms by removing sources of gluten from their diet. == Coeliac disease: It affects the small intestine. The immune system of a person with coeliac disease reacts to gluten, which damages the lining of the intestine. Symptoms: manifests as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, and fatigue. == Autoimmune gastritis: Autoimmune gastritis (AIG), a chronic inflammatory condition, occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the stomach lining, leading to parietal cell destruction and potential vitamin B12 deficiency and pernicious anemia.  Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD):  It is linked to a microbe that activates the body’s defense mechanism, causing inflammation  of the digestive tract, and in the lining of the intestinal wall. It causes pain and irritation. The most common forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Each type of IBD affects a different part of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract as indicated below: Crohn’s disease can inflame any part of your GI tract, from the mouth to the anus. Ulcerative colitis affects the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Symptoms of Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD):  The symptoms of IBD  can include: abdominal pain diarrhea, which is sometimes bloody. Painful or difficult bowel movements Rectal bleeding Fever Weight loss Fatigue Mouth ulcers Treatment of Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): People with IBD, specifically CD(Crohn's Disease), may see an improvement in symptoms and their quality of life by changing their eating habits. Medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants, including biologics can also help. Meanwhile, a total colectomy may cure a person of UC (Ulcerative Colitis).

Autoimmune diseases that affect the hormones or endocrine system: Some autoimmune conditions affecting the hormones are described below: Type 1 diabetes mellitus: Our pancreas produces the hormone insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.  In type 1 diabetes, the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in our pancreas. This form of diabetes usually occurs during childhood or adolescence. Symptoms: Type 1 diabetes causes high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). We may experience weight loss,  blurred vision, an increased susceptibility to infection,  frequent urination, problems with concentration, and chronic extreme thirst.  High blood sugar from type 1 diabetes can damage the blood vessels and organs. Treatment of Type 1 diabetes mellitus: People with type 1 diabetes can manage the condition with daily insulin injections to balance out the amount of carbohydrates they eat. Unlike type 2 diabetes, a person cannot prevent type 1 diabetes by making diet or lifestyle changes. However, monitoring diet and exercise levels can help reduce symptoms. == Graves' disease: It attacks the thyroid gland in our neck, causing it to produce too much of its hormones. Thyroid hormones control the body’s energy usage, known as metabolism.  Symptoms of Graves’ disease: This can cause a range of symptoms, including: Heat sensitivity. Anxiety Sweating. Diarrhea Muscle weakness. Insomnia. Irritability. Unintentional weight loss. Light menstrual periods or no periods. Bulging eyes. Shaky hands. Racing heartbeat. Some people with Graves’ disease may also experience symptoms affecting the skin (Graves’ dermopathy) or eyes (Graves’ ophthalmopathy). Treatment of Graves’ disease: There are several treatment options for Graves’ disease. Antithyroid medications can lower thyroid hormone levels, and radioactive iodine damages the thyroid cells so that they do not produce as much hormone. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend removing part or all of the thyroid gland. == Hashimoto thyroiditis (some thyroid conditions): Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition wherein the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to produce less thyroid hormone. This usually leads to an underactive thyroid, which causes symptoms such as: Fatigue Hair loss Muscle aches Facial swelling Constipation Weakness Weight gain Heavy menstrual periods Sensitivity to cold Joint pain The main treatment for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a daily dose of levothyroxine, which increases thyroid hormone levels. Autoimmune diseases that affect the endocrine system also include Addison's disease (occurring less frequently). Myasthenia gravis: The most common symptom is muscle weakness. It may worsen with activity and improve with rest.

Autoimmune diseases that affect the nervous system: Some autoimmune conditions affecting the nervous system are described below: Multiple sclerosis (MS): It is a central nervous condition that damages nerve fibers and the protective coating around nerve cells (myelin sheath) in our central nervous system.  Different forms of MS progress at different rates. In Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath that protects the nerves. This causes damage, affecting the transmission of information to and from the brain and spinal cord and the nerves they connect with. This disrupts the messages traveling along the nerve fibers.  The symptoms of MS include: Paralysis Tremors Weakness in the extremities Difficulty with coordination, balance, speaking, and walking Numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, hands, and feet Vision loss (vision impairment). Its symptoms depend on which part of the nervous system is affected. Difficulties with walking are one of the most common mobility issues with MS. There is currently no cure for MS, but some medications may reduce the symptoms and the underlying disease process. The type of medication that the condition responds to will vary from case to case. Guillain-Barre syndrome: Guillain-Barre syndrome occurs when the immune system attacks healthy nerves, disrupting the electrical signals the nerves send to the brain. This may cause : Muscle weakness and unsteadiness Vision problems Difficulty chewing or swallowing Pins and needles in the hands or feet Lack of bladder control Chronic pain Unusual heart rate or blood pressure Breathing problems Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare condition that can be severe, but with medical support, recovery is possible. To treat and prevent further nerve damage, a doctor may use plasma exchange, high-dose immunoglobulin therapy, and high-dose steroids. == Myasthenia Gravis (MG): Myasthenia gravis affects nerve impulses that help the brain control muscles. When the communication from nerves to muscles is impaired, signals can’t direct the muscles to contract. The most common symptom is muscle weakness. It may worsen with activity and improve with rest. == Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIPD) is also included in the autoimmune diseases that affect the nervous system.

Some other autoimmune diseases are listed below: Pernicious anemia: Pernicious anemia may happen when an autoimmune disorder causes our body to not produce enough of a substance called intrinsic factor. Having a deficiency in this substance reduces the amount of vitamin B12 our small intestine absorbs from food.  It can cause a low red blood cell count. Without enough of this vitamin, you may develop anemia, and your body’s ability for proper DNA synthesis may be altered. This rare autoimmune disease typically occurs in people ages 60 to 70  and older. Autoimmune diseases also include: Progressive systemic sclerosis. Many cases of glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidneys). Some cases of infertility.

Specific conditions of autoimmune disorders: With some autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis (RA), symptoms may come and go (recur). A period of symptoms is called a flare-up (attack). During a flare-up, your symptoms may get severe for a while. Later on, you may have a remission, which means that your symptoms get better or disappear for some time. Tell your healthcare provider (specialists, immunologists, rheumatologists, doctors, or experts)  if you experience symptoms that seem to recur, especially if certain physical activities, times of day, foods or drinks, or anything else makes them noticeably better or worse.

Diagnosis of Autoimmune Disorders: It can be hard to diagnose an autoimmune disorder, especially in its earlier stages, and if multiple organs or systems are involved. Depending on the disorder, diagnosis methods may include: Physical examination. Medical and family history. Blood tests, including those to detect autoantibodies. You might need some imaging tests to take pictures of the insides of your body, including: X-rays. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). CT scan (computed tomography scan). Ultrasound. In some cases, biopsy may also be advised. Healthcare providers often use blood tests to check how well your immune system is working.  Blood tests that indicate the presence of inflammation may suggest an autoimmune disorder. Such tests include the following: Blood tests: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test: This test measures how quickly red blood cells (erythrocytes) settle to the bottom of a test tube containing blood. When inflammation is present, the ESR is often increased because proteins that are produced in response to inflammation interfere with the ability of red blood cells to remain suspended in blood. C-Reactive protein (CRP) test: This test also measures overall inflammation. CRP is a protein released by the liver in times of inflammation such as active autoimmune disease. Immunoglobulin A (IgA). Pharmacogenetic Tests. Protein Electrophoresis by Immunofixation Blood Test. Complete blood count (CBC): This test includes determining the number of red blood cells in the blood. This number is frequently decreased (anemia) because fewer red blood cells are produced when inflammation is present. Complement blood tests to check levels of specific types of protein in your blood, such as C3 proteins. Because inflammation has many causes (many of which are not autoimmune), doctors often also do blood tests to detect different antibodies that can occur in people who have particular autoimmune disorders. Examples of these antibodies are: Anti Nuclear Antibodies(ANA) test : They are typically present in systemic lupus erythematosus. Rheumatoid factor or anti-cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies: They are typically present in rheumatoid arthritis. It is also called the CCP Antibody Test. But even these antibodies sometimes occur in people who do not have an autoimmune disorder, so doctors usually use a combination of test results and the person's symptoms to determine whether an autoimmune disorder is present.

Medical test of specific autoimmune diseases: Inflammatory bowel disease: It may require blood and stool analysis, endoscopy, capsule endoscope, ultrasound, and radiological tests. Type 1 diabetes:  A glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) test, a random blood sugar test or a fasting blood sugar test is usually done for diagnosis. Rheumatoid arthritis: A blood test and radiology examination of the most affected skeletal segments is performed. Multiple sclerosis: No single test can positively confirm multiple sclerosis. If there's evidence of at least two separate attacks with multiple sclerosis symptoms, a neurologist may order a neurological examination, an MRI scan, an evoked potential test, a lumbar puncture, and several blood tests to diagnose the condition.  Coeliac disease: Four tests are usually performed to diagnose this condition: serology, genetic testing, duodenal biopsy, and dietary testing. Lupus: Diagnosis of lupus is often complicated. Diagnosis is based on the presence of several criteria that must occur at the same time, such as malar rash, arthritis, blood or neurological disorders, mouth sores and serositis, among others.

Management and treatment of autoimmune disorders:

Autoimmune disorders in general cannot be cured, but the condition can be controlled in many cases. Historically, treatments include: Anti-inflammatory drugs like NSAIDs – to reduce inflammation and pain Corticosteroids – to reduce inflammation. They are sometimes used to treat an acute flare of symptoms. Pain-killing medication – such as paracetamol and codeine. Immunosuppressant drugs – to inhibit the activity of the immune system. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) infusion: It involves infusing a concentrated solution of antibodies (immunoglobulins) from healthy donors into a vein to help strengthen the immune system and treat various conditions. Treatment for the deficiency – for example, insulin injections in the case of diabetes. Surgery – for example, to treat bowel blockage in the case of Crohn's disease. High-dose immunosuppression – the use of immune system-suppressing drugs (in the doses needed to treat cancer or to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs) has been tried recently, with promising results. Particularly when intervention is early, the chance of a cure for some of these conditions seems possible. Occupational therapy. Physical therapy – to encourage mobility. Autoimmune diseases can need a variety of treatments. Just like the wide variety of symptoms they cause, which treatments you’ll need depends on which condition you have. Everyone’s immune system, genetics, and environment are different. That means the treatments that work for you will be unique. You might need specific treatments based on the condition you have. For example, people with Type 1 diabetes need insulin therapy and people with celiac disease need to eat a gluten-free diet. There are different ways to get the medications into our body. Certain medicines such as steroids, azathioprine, and methotrexate can be taken by mouth. Other medicines, called biologics, need to be injected either into the blood through the vein or subcutaneously into the fat under the skin.

An autoimmune disease is a condition in which our immune system attacks our body's cells. The primary goal of treating an autoimmune disorder is to control the immune response in your body. Your treatment options usually involve reducing inflammation and other symptoms. Once you have been diagnosed, some autoimmune diseases can be difficult to treat. You may need to try different options before finding the right combination that works for you. In general, treatment usually cannot cure the disease, but it may reduce symptoms and help you manage the condition better. Specific treatments will vary depending on the type of autoimmune condition you have and its severity. However, most treatments fall into one of the categories below: Over-the-counter therapies Prescription medications  Lifestyle changes  Complementary and alternative medicine Experimental treatments

Over-the-counter (OTC) therapies:  Over-the-counter (OTC) therapies do not require prescriptions and may be some of the first treatments your healthcare provider recommends for autoimmune disease. Usually, OTC medications help relieve mild symptoms, such as pain. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) can help with inflammation, swelling, stiffness, fever, and pain. Common OTC drugs include:  Aspirin   Ibuprofen Acetaminophen Naproxen The right OTC medication will depend on the type of autoimmune disease you have and how far the condition has progressed. Your healthcare provider may have you try different OTC drugs. Some people need only OTC therapies to manage their disorders,  but NSAIDs do pose some risks.

Prescriptions (Prescribed medications): If you have severe symptoms or OTC therapies are not working, you may need to take prescription drugs for autoimmune disorders. These medications can help with different symptoms like fever, pain, anxiety, swelling, depression, fatigue, sleep problems, skin problems, rashes, or digestive issues. Prescription drugs usually cost more than OTC medications, and they may have more side effects.  Immunosuppressant Therapies: Immunosuppressive therapies can treat many types of autoimmune diseases. These medications target different parts of your immune system by suppressing it. Immunosuppressants can help manage your condition and protect organ function, such as by controlling inflammation. Some common immunosuppressants include low-dose chemotherapy and drugs to prevent rejection after organ transplants. Immunosuppressive therapies to treat autoimmune disease include: Corticosteroids  Cyclosporine Methotrexate Imuran (azathioprine) Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) Azulfidine (sulfasalazine) CellCept (mycophenolic acid) Cytoxan, Neosar (cyclophosphamide) Arava (leflunomide) Immunosuppressive biologics therapies: Biologic therapies are a type of immunosuppressant that can target specific parts of the immune system, such as blocking certain receptors on cells. You usually get these medicines through an injection or an intravenous line. Immunosuppressive biologics include:  IL-1 blockers (Kineret or Anakinra) IL-6 blockers (Actemra or tocilizumab) TNF-inhibitors (Humira or adalimumab) Biologics that block T cell activity (Orencia or Abatacept) Biologics that affect B cells (Truxima or rituximab) Benlysta (belimumab). Side Effects of Immunosuppressant Therapies: Immunosuppressant medicines are often considered a gold-standard treatment for many conditions, but they can come with major side effects. One of the most common concerns is a higher risk of infection.  Common side effects of immunosuppressants include:  Infections  Nausea Diarrhea Headaches Upset stomach Vomiting Constipation Stomach pain  Dizziness  Fatigue  Drugs for Treating Pain Your healthcare provider will first recommend NSAIDs for treating mild pain. If an autoimmune disease causes severe pain that interferes with your quality of life and ability to function, however, you may need to take prescription pain medications. Prescription pain medications usually include opioids such as: Codeine Oxycodone Morphine Demerol Methadone Fentanyl Tramadol Long-term use of opioids may lead to tolerance and addiction. In addition, opioids can have side effects, including constipation, drowsiness, or sleepiness.   Drugs for Treating Fatigue: Autoimmune disorders can cause fatigue, and you may have another underlying medical condition that contributes to it. Additionally, some drugs for treating autoimmune diseases have fatigue as a side effect. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your medications if fatigue is a serious problem.  Medicines for treating fatigue include: Iron supplements and erythropoietin hormone  Vitamins and supplements  Antidepressants Psychostimulants Drugs for Other Symptoms Since there is a wide range of autoimmune diseases, your medications will vary based on the condition you have and your specific symptoms. For example, you may need to take substances, such as insulin or thyroid hormone replacement drugs, to replace what is missing in your body because of an autoimmune condition. Other treatment options that may help include:  Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs to slow down the autoimmune disease. Intravenous immunoglobulin to help the immune system.  Antimalarial drugs to help skin rashes and other symptoms.  Anticoagulants to prevent blood clots. Steroids to help symptoms like pain, swelling, or tenderness.

Lifestyle changes:

Lifestyle changes can help you manage an autoimmune disease. Since most medical treatment options do not offer a cure, lifestyle modifications can be an important part of helping you feel better. The goal of making these changes is to lower inflammation in the body and control other symptoms. Keep in mind that making and sticking to lifestyle changes can take time and effort. Your healthcare provider can make recommendations, but you must be willing to alter how you live. Consider asking friends and family to help keep you accountable. Also, avoid trying to make all of the recommended changes you may hear at the same time, so you do not feel overwhelmed. Healthy lifestyle changes are most successful when they're established over time. Healthy and balanced diet: You want to follow a healthy, balanced diet that includes vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Try to limit trans fat, saturated fats, sugar, and salt. Focus on eating lean protein and healthy fats. The goal is to avoid processed foods with extra sugar and salt that do not have nutritional value. In addition, limit or avoid alcohol and caffeine. Nourishing your body is essential for managing an autoimmune condition. You may want to discuss specific dietary changes with your healthcare provider. Tests can show if you have any nutritional deficiencies that require supplementation or additional diet modifications.  Immune System Sound and sufficient Sleep: Sleep is essential for your overall health, but some autoimmune diseases can make it more difficult to get enough of it. In addition, specific medications used to treat your condition can affect sleep. Rest gives your body a chance to heal and recover. When you do not get enough sleep, it can make symptoms worse.  In general, most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Your sleep requirements can vary. If you are having trouble falling asleep, eliminate distractions and limit alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine before bedtime. Try to fall asleep and wake up at the same hour every day. In addition, make your bedroom comfortable and dark. We should avoid using electronic devices before bed. Exercise: Exercise can help with fatigue and other symptoms of an autoimmune disease. You want to perform regular physical activities that turn into a healthy habit. However, it's also important to be kind to your body and not overdo it. You may want to start with a low-impact exercise program, such as tai chi or a gentle form of yoga. When you exercise, your body makes endorphins that affect mood, helping you feel better.  Physical activity also improves flexibility, range of motion, muscle mass, and blood circulation. You may have less pain and more energy after exercising. You may even sleep better at night after working out during the day. Stress Relief: Stress can contribute to health problems and make the symptoms of an autoimmune disease worse, such as causing a flare-up. Although your stress-relief strategies will be personal, some general recommendations can help.  Getting enough sleep, following a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can all help reduce stress. Try to eliminate any sources of stress when it is possible. To this end, you may also want to try cognitive-behavioral therapy, yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques. The goal is to practice these techniques regularly. You can find ways to relieve stress on your own. However, you may also benefit from joining a support group or seeing a therapist.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM): Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) describes substances and methods that are not considered part of standard medical care. This may include herbs, supplements, or modalities like hypnosis, massage, or acupuncture. Some people with autoimmune diseases may benefit from CAM and find relief from symptoms with it. However, research on many supplements and methods is limited. Many CAM substances and methods focus on the mind-body connection. CAM techniques and products are designed to help the whole body. There is also a strong focus on relaxation, nutrition, and stress reduction. Certain elements of CAM can cause problems, such as herbs interfering with your medications.  Discuss your plans to use CAM treatments with a healthcare provider to make sure you do not encounter any issues. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is a non-medication treatment option for autoimmune diseases. It involves performing specific exercises with a trained physical therapist. It can be especially useful for joint pain and muscle weakness.  Physical therapy can help with symptoms such as: Numbness or weakness in the limbs Coordination problems Unsteady gait Muscle spasms Joint stiffness Physical therapy can also help improve your cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart muscle as well as maintaining bone density with weight-bearing exercises. If you have to use an assistive device, such as a cane or a walker, because of your condition, physical therapy can provide training for it. A physical therapist can assist you in using the device and maintaining muscle strength. Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy focuses on making daily activities easier for you if you have pain or other symptoms. The goal of occupational therapy is to help you live an independent and productive life. An occupational therapist can teach you different methods to reduce symptoms and discomfort and show you how to use new devices. You may want to make changes in your house or at work if the occupational therapist recommends them.  Stiffness, weakness, and pain can make it difficult to do things. Occupational therapy can teach you how to bathe, get dressed, cook, and do other activities differently so that they are easier to accomplish. For example, an occupational therapist can help a person with joint problems learn how to brush their teeth using an assistive device that makes holding the toothbrush less painful. Mind-Body Therapy: Mind-body therapy can include different products and methods that treat the whole body. Instead of viewing the brain and body as separate entities, this type of CAM works on integrating them. Usually, it involves relaxation techniques that work on both the mind and body.  Breathing, focusing, and moving are important parts of mind-body therapy. The methods can range from doing art to trying hypnosis. Some other examples include meditation, biofeedback, yoga, tai chi, and guided imagery.  You may want to experiment with different types of mind-body therapies to find the right one. The techniques are usually safe for most people to try without the risk of side effects or complications. Supplements and Herbs: There are many different types of supplements and herbs that you may find. Some have been studied and show promise in helping those with autoimmune disorders. However, there is a possibility that specific herbs and supplements can interfere with OTC and prescription medications. You should discuss the types you plan to take with your healthcare provider.

Experimental Treatments:  Experimental treatments have risks, but some are showing promise for treating autoimmune diseases. You may be able to join a clinical trial or try an experimental medication. Ask your practitioner if there are any clinical trials you can join for your condition.  Keep in mind that experimental treatments carry risks and may not work. Since research on them is limited, it's also possible to have an adverse event or reaction.

Medications and Biologic Drugs: Medications and biologic drugs used in the management of autoimmune diseases attempt to control disease flares, limit inflammatory damage, and extend periods of remission. However, consistent results may not be seen in each patient, there may be potentially serious side effects, and higher financial costs have also been noted for some drug options. The goal of contemporary treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as an example, is to halt or slow the progression of the disease before joint damage occurs, and treatment with conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) and biologic DMARDs in the early stages of RA is usually recommended. However not all patients respond to or tolerate DMARDs, and researchers continue to clarify associations between DMARDs and potential severe adverse health effects such as interstitial lung disease and dementia.

The details of medicational treatment: Mainly two types of treatment are available for autoimmune disorders as given below: Medications that suppress the immune system, including corticosteroids. For some autoimmune disorders, plasma exchange and intravenous immune globulin. Certain autoimmune disorders (such as multiple sclerosis and thyroid disorders) are also treated with medications other than immunosuppressants and corticosteroids. Treatment to relieve symptoms may also be needed. Certain medications specifically target white blood cells. White blood cells help defend the body against infection but also participate in autoimmune reactions. These medications include the following: Abatacept blocks the activation of one kind of white blood cell (T cell) and is used in rheumatoid arthritis. Rituximab, first used against certain white blood cell cancers, works by depleting certain white blood cells (B cells) from the body. It is effective in some autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and certain disorders that cause inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis), including granulomatosis with polyangiitis (formerly called Wegener granulomatosis). Rituximab is under study in a variety of other autoimmune disorders. Other medications that target white blood cells are being developed. Plasma exchange and intravenous immune globulin: Plasma exchange is used to treat a few autoimmune disorders. Blood is withdrawn and filtered to remove abnormal proteins such as autoantibodies. Then the filtered blood is returned to the person. Intravenous immune globulin (a purified solution of antibodies obtained from volunteer donors and given by vein) is used to treat a few autoimmune disorders. How it works is unknown.

General Immune Suppressants: Steroids: Examples: Prednisone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone. Indications for use: Numerous uses in many autoimmune diseases, asthma, urticaria Medication target: Steroids have broad effects in blocking inflammation. How it works: Steroids stop the body from making cytokines that cause inflammation, deplete certain immune cells called T and B cells and eosinophils, and make it more difficult for immune cells to travel to spots of infection or injury through the body. They are different from the “anabolic steroids” that are sometimes abused by athletes. What to look out for: Using steroids for a long time puts you at risk for many issues related to bone health, high blood pressure, blood sugar control, cataracts, and infections. Depending on how much steroid you are taking and how long you will be on it, you will be monitored for certain types of infections, including rare types of pneumonia. You may need to use antibiotics to help prevent some types of infections. These measures are normally not needed if you are on steroids for a short time. For those on long-term steroids, you should speak with your physician before receiving vaccinations. == Colchicine: Indications for use: Gout flares, Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), and other autoinflammatory disorders. Medication target: Inhibits neutrophil (a type of white blood cell) function. How it works: By reducing the function of neutrophils, it works by reducing inflammation in specific diseases. What to look out for: Colchicine can commonly cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. It may also cause liver, kidney, or muscle damage and can lead to low blood cell counts. This medication may cause dangerous interactions with other medications, so a full medication check is necessary. It should not be taken with grapefruit juice. == Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil): Indications for use: Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, malaria, chronic hives, and other autoimmune conditions. Medication target: Immune cell signaling. How it works: By reducing signaling in the immune system, it reduces the inflammatory response. It may prevent the activation of certain immune cells called dendritic cells. What to look out for: Hydroxychloroquine may cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. It may also cause a rash, vision changes, and low blood cell counts. It is not associated with an increased risk for infection. Patients should have regular eye examinations while taking this medication. It has many drug interactions. == Sulfasalazine: Indications for use: Rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and other autoinflammatory conditions. Medication target: Inhibits the formation of chemicals called prostaglandins. How it works: The active component of sulfasalazine, 5-aminosalicylate, helps to gradually reduce inflammation. What to look out for: This medication may cause nausea, headache, sun sensitivity, and a rash. It should be avoided in patients allergic to sulfa antibiotics or salicylates and used with caution in patients with G6PD deficiency. Patients should use sun protection when taking this medication. It may temporarily reduce sperm counts and cause orange urine. Since it may rarely lead to reduced blood counts and risk for infection, you may have blood tests checked while taking this medication. == Dapsone: Indications for use: Leprosy and other infections, dermatitis herpetiformis, and other autoimmune conditions. Medication target: Interferes with bacterial folate synthesis How it works: It also prevents cellular injury from free radicals and inhibits chemicals called leukotrienes or prostaglandins for an anti-inflammatory effect. What to look out for: This medication may cause gastrointestinal upset, a rash, and headache. Less commonly it may cause mood changes, low blood cell counts, kidney and liver damage, and male infertility. It should be used with caution in patients with G6PD deficiency and avoided in patients with a sulfa-allergy. It may have many drug interactions. == Methotrexate: Indications for use: Rheumatoid arthritis, many other autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers. Medication target: Blocks how cells use folic acid, a specific nutrient. This is a key part of making DNA and RNA which are important for T cells and B cells to grow, divide, and survive. How it works: T cells and B cells need to make DNA and RNA to live and grow. Slowing this process helps to control inflammation in autoimmune conditions. What to look out for: Methotrexate is an immune-suppressing drug. It is used at low doses for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. You are more likely to get bacterial and viral infections when you are taking methotrexate because it lowers your body's ability to make T and B cells. You should be checked for viral infections such as hepatitis B and C, as well as for your kidney and liver function before starting this drug. Your kidney and liver tests will be checked while you are taking this medication. Patients are often prescribed folic acid to reduce the side effects of this medication, such as mouth sores, diarrhea, or nausea. == Mycophenolate Mofetil (Cellcept, Myfortic): Indications for use: Used in many other autoimmune diseases and prevention of rejection in solid organ transplantation. Medication target: Inosine-5′-monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) enzyme. How it works: The IMPDH enzyme is important for making DNA and RNA. T cells and B cells need this enzyme to grow and divide, and blocking it helps to control immune responses in autoimmune conditions. What to look out for: There is a higher risk of getting infections from bacteria or viruses when you are taking mycophenolate because it lowers your body's ability to make T and B cells. You should be checked for viral infections such as hepatitis B and C before starting this medication. Your blood cell counts, kidney, and liver tests will be checked while you are taking this drug. Live vaccines should be avoided. == Azathioprine (Imuran): Indications for use: Used in many other autoimmune diseases and prevention of transplant rejection. Medication target: This drug is broken into a molecule that is built into DNA as it is being put together and stops DNA from being made correctly. This causes T and B cells to grow and divide more slowly. How it works: T cells and B cells need to make DNA and RNA to grow and divide. Slowing this process down helps to control immune responses in autoimmune diseases. What to look out for: There is a higher risk of getting infections from bacteria or viruses when you are taking azathioprine because it lowers your body's ability to make T and B cells. You should be checked for viral infections, such as hepatitis B and C, before starting this medication. Your doctor may check whether your body makes a protein called thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) before you start this medication to make sure your body can get rid of it normally. Your blood cell counts, kidney, and liver tests will be checked while you are taking this drug. It may increase your risk for malignancy.

Innate Immunity: Anti-IL-1 Biologics: Examples: Anakinra (Kineret), Canakinumab (Ilaris), Rilonacept (Arcalyst) Indications for use: Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes (CAPS), including Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome and Muckle-Wells Syndrome, Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (canakinumab), and rheumatoid arthritis (anakinra). Medication target: Interleukin-1 (IL-1) How it works: IL-1 helps your body respond right away when microbes come into contact with cells. This causes fever and tells other cells to help join and fight the infection. By blocking the IL-1, we can reduce fever, and inflammation in the joints and skin, and help to reduce the overall inflammation caused by these conditions. What to look out for: Because IL-1 is important for protection against microbes, you may be more likely to get infections (bacterial and viral), such as upper respiratory infections and urinary tract infections, with long-term treatment with an IL-1 blocking drug. Reactivation of diseases such as tuberculosis is rare, but getting a test for tuberculosis infection is recommended before you start this drug. It is recommended to avoid live vaccines while on these medications and to receive all required vaccinations of any type before starting the medication because it is not known how well the body responds to the vaccine while you are taking this type of medication. Your white blood cell count is often monitored while taking these medications. == Anti-TNF Biologics (TNF Inhibitors): Examples: Infliximab (Remicade), Adalimumab (Humira), Golimumab (Simponi), Etanercept (Enbrel), Certolizumab (Cimzia). Indications for use: Rheumatoid arthritis, plaque psoriasis/arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis. Medication target: Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF). How it works: TNF is important for inflammation that starts when the body comes into contact with microbes. TNF activates inflammation throughout the body, causes fever, and recruits other white blood cells to the part of the body where there is an infection. In inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, TNF can cause damage to joints, skin, and the digestive tract. Blocking TNF can help to keep these inflammatory diseases under control. What to look out for: TNF is also an important part of the body’s ability to get rid of invading bacteria, viruses, and fungi. There is a higher risk of serious infections when taking a TNF-blocking therapy. Additionally, you should be tested for tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C, and HIV, and screened for any risk of fungal infection because if you have these infections, they can become active when you block TNF.  You should also avoid live vaccines when taking this family of medications. The long-term risk of cancers such as lymphoma may also be higher in patients taking anti-TNF therapy. == Anti-IL-6 Biologics: Examples: Tocilizumab (Actemra), Sarilumab (Kevzara) Indications for use: Rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Medication target: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor. How it works: IL-6 is an important cytokine that causes T cells and B cells to be activated. It is also important for inflammation throughout the body leading to fever. In autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, IL-6 causes inflammation that damages joints and other parts of the body.  What to look out for: Because IL-6 is an important cytokine for many white blood cells and inflammation in general, there is a higher risk of infection with common infections, such as upper respiratory viruses, and with less common infections, such as tuberculosis. As with TNF-blocking therapies, you should be tested for tuberculosis before starting an IL-6-blocking treatment. == Complement: Examples: Eculizumab Indications for use: Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (a-HUS). Medication target: Complement C5. How it works: Complement is part of the innate immune system that binds to and destroys certain types of bacteria (such as Neisseria—the family of bacteria that causes gonorrhea and meningococcal meningitis). In normal circumstances, the body keeps complement in check by having proteins to prevent complement from being activated. In certain conditions, such as PNH and a-HUS, the body cannot stop complement from being activated and the body destroys its cells. Eculizumab helps to prevent this type of spontaneous complement activation. What to look out for: Because complement is very important for the body’s defense against Neisseria, individuals taking eculizumab are more likely to get this infection. You should be vaccinated against meningococcus before starting this drug and take antibiotics to prevent infections while on this drug.

Adaptive Immunity – B cells: Anti-CD20 Biologics: Examples: Rituximab (Rituxan) Indications for use: Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis (such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis), autoimmune skin disease. Medication target: CD20, a surface protein on B cells. How it works: Rituximab binds to the CD20 protein on B cells and destroys the B cells in the bloodstream. The diseases that are treated with rituximab all require B cells to either grow (such as lymphoma) or make antibodies that bind to certain parts of our body and cause inflammation (such as rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, and autoimmune skin disease). When the B cells are removed by rituximab, the body gets rid of the growing B cells and the B cells that are making the antibodies causing the disease. What to look out for: When B cells are removed from the body, there is a higher risk of diseases that are normally cleared by antibodies. These include infections in the sinuses and lungs. Specific diseases such as hepatitis B can become re-activated after rituximab and you should be tested for hepatitis B before treatment. Other types of viral infections have also been seen, such as herpes. The response to vaccines is also limited after rituximab and all indicated vaccinations should be given before its use. In most people who get rituximab, the B cells return within one year. However, in a subset of individuals treated with rituximab, B cells do not return and you may have low antibody levels for many years or lifelong. This can put you at higher risk for infection. == B Cell Growth Factor Targeting Biologics: Examples: Belimumab (Benlysta). Indications for use: Systemic lupus erythematosus. Medication target: BLyS (B lymphocyte stimulator, also called BAFF). How it works: Belimumab targets the cytokine BLyS, which is an important protein for B cell survival and growth. By blocking this growth factor in patients with lupus, you can reduce some of the autoimmune antibodies that are made by B cells. What to look out for: In patients using Belimumab, skin infections, and pneumonia are the most common infections. Patients on belimumab who develop decreased immune function are also more likely to develop pneumonia caused by fungi or cytomegalovirus. Live vaccines should be avoided when taking belimumab. == Adaptive Immunity – T Cells: Examples: Cyclosporine Indications for use: Prevent organ transplant rejection, graft versus host disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, chronic urticaria. Medication target: Calcineurin, which gives signals to activate T cells. How it works: Cyclosporine is an oral medication that is taken up into T cells where it binds a protein called calcineurin. When this happens, the T cells cannot make cytokines or make more T cells. What to look out for: The most frequent side effects of cyclosporine are high blood pressure and decreased kidney function and these need to be closely monitored. Because cyclosporine blocks T cells, it is an immune-suppressing medication. It may increase the risk of malignancy. You are at higher risk of infections in general when on this medication. For this reason, it is recommended that you avoid all live vaccines when you are taking this medication. == T Cell Co-stimulation and Activation: Examples: Abatacept (Orencia) Indications for use: Rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis Medication target: CTLA-4/CD28 How it works: T cells are activated by two signals. The first signal is when the T cell receptor binds a specific part of a microbe (antigen) brought to it by an immune cell called an antigen-presenting cell (APC). The second signal occurs when the T cell and APC communicate by a second set of proteins when these cells interact. An example of this second signal is a T cell protein called CD28 that binds to APC proteins CD80/86 activating both the T cell and the APC. To turn itself off, the T cell will bring in CTLA-4 which blocks the binding of CD28 to CD80/86. Abatacept is a drug form of CTLA-4. By using this medication, we can turn off the T-cell immune response. In inflammatory arthritis, this helps to calm the inflammation caused by T cells that causes joint pain and swelling. What to look out for: Because abatacept is helping to turn off all T cell responses, you are at a higher risk of infections when taking this medication. You should be tested for tuberculosis and hepatitis B and C because if you have these infections, they can become active when we turn down the activity of T cells.  Live vaccines should not be given concurrently or within 3 months of stopping this medication. == Adaptive Immunity – Cytokines: Anti-IL-17 Biologics Examples: Secukinumab (Cosentyx), Ixekizumab (Taltz), and Brodalumab (Siliq). Indications for use: Psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis. Medication target: IL-17 (secukinumab, ixekizumab), IL-17 receptor (brodalumab) How it works: IL-17 is an important cytokine in autoimmune disease. It is important in diseases like psoriasis and ankylosing spondylitis. Normally, IL-17 is an important part of our defense against bacterial and fungal infections by recruiting other types of white blood cells called neutrophils to sites of infections. What to look out for: When IL-17 blocking treatments are used there is a higher likelihood of infections, mostly including upper respiratory tract infections. Serious infections and fungal infections were rare in studies of these types of medications. Live vaccines should be avoided while using an IL-17 blocking therapy. == Anti-IL-23 Biologics: Examples: Guselkumab (Tremfya). Indications for use: Psoriasis. Medication target: IL-23 cytokine. How it works: IL-23 is a cytokine important for keeping a type of T cell called Th17 cells (that make IL-17) alive. By keeping these cells alive and active, IL-23 is an important part of the body’s defense against bacterial infection and other infections in the gut. In autoimmune diseases like psoriasis, IL-23 can be part of the inflammatory response causing skin inflammation and symptoms. What to look out for: Blocking IL-23 does not have a big effect on the number of infections that patients had during clinical trials. == Anti-IL-12/23 Biologics: Examples: Ustekinumab (Stelara) Indications for use: Psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease. Medication target: IL-12 and IL-23 cytokine receptors. How it works: Ustekinumab binds to a part of the IL-12 and IL-23 receptors that is shared, called IL-12p40. IL-12 is an important cytokine to activates T cells and other white blood cells called natural killer cells that help to clear bacterial and viral infections. When these cytokines are abnormally regulated in autoimmune disease, they can cause damage to tissues, as seen in psoriasis and Crohn’s disease. What to look out for: Because IL-12 is an important part of the immune system to activate T cells, this may put patients at higher risk of infection from mycobacteria, salmonella, and tuberculosis or BCG. This appears to be very rare. Testing for tuberculosis is recommended before starting therapy with ustekinumab. == Anti-IL-5 Biologics: Examples: Mepolizumab (Nucala), Reslizumab (Cinqair), and Benralizumab (Fasenra). Indications for use: Severe eosinophilic asthma, and other eosinophilic-related disorders. Medication target: IL-5 (mepolizumab and reslizumab), IL-5 receptor (benralizumab). How it works: IL-5 is an important cytokine for a specific type of white blood cell called eosinophils. Eosinophils are important for the body to fight off worm (helminth) infections and are activated in allergic conditions such as asthma. What to look out for: If you have a helminth infection, it should be treated before starting these medications. If you get a helminth infection that does not clear with treatment while on the IL-5 targeted medications, you should stop these medications. == Anti-IL-4/IL-13 Biologics: Examples: Dupilumab (Dupixent) Indications for use: Atopic dermatitis, asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. Medication target: IL-4 Receptor alpha (Part of the IL-4 and IL-13 receptor) How it works: The cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 are involved in the immune response that leads to the production of allergy antibodies (IgE), mucous in the airways, and activation of the allergic immune response.  What to look out for: The recommendations are to avoid live vaccines (such as MMR and varicella) when you are using dupilumab. The responses to killed or inactive vaccines (such as the meningitis vaccine) are normal when on this medication. There is likely no or a very small increased risk of getting skin infections, flu, or cold virus infections. IL-4 and IL-13 are likely important in the control of worm (helminth) infections. Studies have not measured the effect of dupilumab on these types of infections. If you are living in an area where there are helminths, you should be monitored periodically or tested if you have symptoms. == Biologics Targeting IgE: Examples: Omalizumab (Xolair) Indications for use: Allergic asthma, Chronic urticaria. Medication target: IgE – allergy antibody How it works: IgE is often referred to as the “allergy antibody”. When IgE binds to an allergen, it causes the release of histamine and other molecules that cause an allergic response (itching, redness, hives). What to look out for: Blocking IgE does not have a large impact on the body’s ability to fight off typical bacterial and viral infections. IgE may be important to attack other types of infections such as helminths (also called worms, such as roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, threadworm). Studies have shown a slightly increased risk for infection in areas of the world where these parasites live if you are using omalizumab. If you are living in an area where there are helminths, you should be monitored periodically or tested if you have symptoms. == Lymphocyte (White Blood Cell) Movement: Examples: Vedolizumab (Entyvio) Indications for use: Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s) Medication target: α4β7 integrin (a protein on the outside of white blood cells that helps them get to the gut). How it works: White blood cells with α4β7 integrins go to the gut where they can have inflammatory effects in inflammatory bowel disease. Vedolizumab blocks these cells from going to the gut, reducing the amount of inflammation. What to look out for: Rates of overall infection (including sinus infections and urinary infections) are slightly higher in patients using vedolizumab. For infections in the gut, there are reports of abscesses in the lower digestive tract and bacterial infections in patients using this medication. == Small Molecule Targeting Medications: JAK Inhibitors Examples: Tofacitinib (Xeljanz), Upadacitinib (Rinvoq), Baricitinib (Olumiant) Indications for use: Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and moderate to severe eczema. Medication target: JAK (Janus Kinase) Enzymes. How it works: JAK enzymes are important proteins inside of cells that relay signals from the outside of the cell to the nucleus, or the machinery inside the cell. Many different cytokine signals use JAKs to transmit messages in the cells. In diseases where there is too much inflammation, blocking JAKs can help to lower the amount of inflammation by decreasing the signals that tell the cell to make and release inflammatory molecules like cytokines. What to look out for: As with other immune-suppressing medications, there is an increased amount of infections with JAK inhibitors. One virus that has been found more often in patients using JAK inhibitors is herpes zoster. Live vaccines should not be given concurrently.

Frequent Asked Questions (FAQs):

What are the most common autoimmune disorders? The most common autoimmune diseases are psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, connective tissue diseases, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto’s, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease. What are the most common autoimmune diseases? There are more than 100 known autoimmune diseases. Some of the most well-known autoimmune diseases  include: Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Type 1 diabetes, L Psoriasis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, Psoriatic arthritis, Connective Tissue Diseases (CTD), Thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto’s, Celiac disease, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

What triggers autoimmune disease? There are over 100 autoimmune diseases, often with varying triggers. However, infections, exposure to irritants, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity are common triggers.

What are the common signs or symptoms of an autoimmune disease or autoimmune disorder? Symptoms vary depending on the disorder and the part of the body affected. Some autoimmune disorders affect certain types of tissue throughout the body—for example, blood vessels, cartilage, or skin. Other autoimmune disorders affect a particular organ. Virtually any organ, including the kidneys, lungs, heart, and brain, can be affected. The resulting inflammation and tissue damage can cause pain, deformed joints, weakness, jaundice, itching, difficulty breathing, accumulation of fluid (edema), delirium, and even death. Different autoimmune diseases may have similar early symptoms. These can include: Always feeling tired (fatigue). Unexplained weight loss. Dizziness or lightheadedness low-grade fever or Unexplained fever. Drenching night sweats. Swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin. Sore, and aching muscles. swelling Trouble concentrating or paying attention. Inflammation, rashes, or redness anywhere on your body. Numbness and tingling in your hands and feet. Hair loss. Skin rash or Itchy skin. What are the 5 common symptoms of an autoimmune disorder? Some autoimmune disorders can have similar symptoms at early stages. These can include fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, low-grade fever, muscle aches, and swelling.

How common are autoimmune diseases? Autoimmune diseases are common, especially because there are so many different types. Experts estimate that around 1 in 15 people in the U.S. has an autoimmune disease.

Can autoimmune diseases be preventable? There might not be any way to prevent autoimmune diseases because experts aren’t sure what causes them.

Can autoimmune diseases be cured? They’re chronic (long-term) conditions that usually last your whole life. Some autoimmune diseases enter remission, a long period of time between symptom flares. This isn’t the same as a cure, but it might mean the symptoms impact your daily routine less often. Generally speaking, autoimmune disorders cannot be cured. They can, however, be controlled with medications and other treatments. Researchers are continuing to look for a cure, so the answer to this question may change in the coming years.

What is the most serious autoimmune disease? Many researchers recognize giant cell myocarditis, a rare autoimmune condition that can lead to heart failure, as one of the most serious autoimmune diseases.

What are the nonpharmaceutical, cost-effective treatment options that may help improve symptoms and quality of life for autoimmune disease patients? Modifiable Lifestyle Factors: Nutrition and Exercise: Dietary patterns that promote the consumption of anti-inflammatory foods may help alleviate physiological biomarkers associated with inflammation and symptoms of chronic inflammatory conditions. Some study it is found that as an adjunctive treatment, patients living with RA may turn to dietary interventions such as the Mediterranean diet to reduce systemic inflammation associated with their disease. Some studies identified the beneficial effects of following a Mediterranean diet in reducing pain and increasing physical function for those patients living with RA. Physical activity is proven safe and beneficial in most autoimmune diseases. In some studies, it is found that home-based physical activity interventions reduced autoimmune rheumatic disease symptoms and pain and improved functional capacity as well as quality of life for patients compared to controls. Some studies reported improvements in balance and functional walking ability for patients living with multiple sclerosis who engaged in exercise routines such as yoga, aerobic training, and aquatic exercise.

How do I take care of myself? Everyone’s body and journey with an autoimmune disease is different. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best ways to manage the symptoms you experience. You might need to adjust the kinds of physical activities you do, the foods and drinks you consume or make other tweaks to your day-to-day routine.

Is an autoimmune disease serious? Living with an autoimmune disease like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis can be complex and serious. Although there are no cures for these diseases, many of their symptoms can be treated, and sometimes they go into remission. Stay in touch with your healthcare provider about any advances in understanding and treating autoimmune diseases.

What is the life expectancy of someone with an autoimmune disease? Does having an autoimmune disease affect my life expectancy? Can you live a long life with an autoimmune disease? With proper treatment and management techniques, many autoimmune diseases are not fatal, and people can expect to live long, active lives. Although autoimmune diseases can’t yet be cured and most of these conditions are chronic, there are several treatments available which can help alleviate the symptoms. Having an autoimmune disease does not affect your life expectancy and many people with autoimmune diseases will be able to have a normal life. There are over 100 different types of autoimmune disorders and most are not fatal. People can expect to live full lives with no shortening of typical life expectancy. However, some of the fatal complications are listed below: Some conditions are more serious than others and can cause fatal complications. Conditions like multiple sclerosis and myositis are more likely to be fatal than many autoimmune diseases, but that doesn’t mean they always are. Similarly, Type 1 diabetes can be fatal if it’s not managed.

When should I see my healthcare provider? Visit a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing new or worsening symptoms you can’t explain — especially if they affect your ability to do all your usual activities. If you’ve already been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, tell your provider if it feels like your treatments aren’t working as well as they used to or if the symptoms are recurring more often.

When should I go in an emergency? You may call for emergency help If you experience any of the following severe symptoms: Trouble breathing or shortness of breath (dyspnea). Severe chest pain or pressure in your chest. A headache that starts suddenly and feels unusually serious or intense. Sudden weakness, especially if you can’t move. Dizziness that doesn’t stop. Pain so severe that you can’t stand it.

Which questions should I ask the healthcare provider? You should ask your provider: Which tests will I need? Is this condition genetic? What kinds of treatments will manage my symptoms? How will I need to change my daily routine?

Which specialist treats autoimmune diseases? The specialist treating an autoimmune disease will depend on the type of disease. Some specialists include: immunologists, dermatologists, and rheumatologists. Can a dermatologist diagnose an autoimmune disease? Autoimmune diseases can present in different ways and vary in ease of diagnosis. Certain diseases, such as psoriasis and scleroderma, primarily affect the skin, and dermatologists may be able to diagnose these. However, other conditions may require input from several healthcare professionals to reach a correct diagnosis.

What does an autoimmune flare-up feel like? Symptoms of an autoimmune flare-up will depend on the body area it affects. For example, rheumatoid arthritis flares will cause pain and swelling in joints, while psoriasis flares may cause swelling and scaling on the skin.

Which autoimmune diseases are immunocompromised? People with autoimmune diseases aren't technically considered immunocompromised, regardless of the type of disease, unless they take immunosuppressant medication that dampens their immune system, making them more prone to infections and increasing their risk of illness.

Should I boost my immune system if I have an autoimmune disease? Boosting or strengthening the immune system isn't particularly desirable, given that the immune system is not a single entity, but rather a system that needs balance and harmony to function well.  This is because autoimmune diseases are prone to occur when the immune system overreacts or is overstimulated, causing it to attack healthy cells in the body.

Can autoimmune diseases cause weight gain? People with autoimmune diseases are susceptible to drastic fluctuations in weight due to inflammation and medication taken. Depending on the condition, this can either be weight gain or weight loss.

Why can't autoimmune diseases be cured?  The immune system is very complex and although there have been advances in research, it is still widely unclear how and why autoimmune diseases develop. This lack of information slows down the development of a cure and the development of effective preventive measures.

Why are autoimmune diseases on the rise?  Scientists believe that this rise can be due to environmental and lifestyle changes (such as eating a low-nutrient diet), which in turn, cause changes in our bodies and in our immune system's ability to respond to infections.  Despite this, genetics and other individual factors, continue to be the leading cause for the development of autoimmune diseases.

Why is my immune system so weak? Many different medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors can weaken your immune system and prevent it from defending you as well as it should. If you feel like you’re always sick or have symptoms that never go away, make an appointment with a healthcare provider. They’ll determine if you have a weak immune system and what’s causing the issue.

Are you born with autoimmune diseases? If there is a family history of an autoimmune disease, certain genes - which predispose someone to autoimmune diseases - may be present at birth. This can lead to some autoimmune diseases being diagnosed at or shortly after birth. Others may not show symptoms and diagnosis is made later in childhood or adulthood.

What medications can affect my immune system? Some medications do important work in your body but in the process, can weaken your immune system. These include: Corticosteroids. Immunosuppressants. Chemotherapy and other forms of cancer treatment. If you need any of these treatments, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can support your immune system.

How can I boost my immune system naturally?  No one likes getting sick, and it’s common to wonder how to improve or strengthen your immune system. Because your immune system is complex, no fast and easy answer works for everyone on how to build it up. That’s why it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider. They can give you individualized advice based on your medical history. They’ll also talk to you about your lifestyle and daily habits to see what changes you can make. Here are some general tips to keep your immune system running smoothly: Fill your plate with healthy foods. Fruits, veggies, lean sources of protein, and whole grains are just some examples of foods that bolster immune function. Talk to your provider about how different ways of eating, like the Mediterranean diet, can help give you the vitamins you need for a healthy immune system. Build exercise into your daily routine. Exercise helps many aspects of your health, including your immune function. Your provider can help you get started with an exercise plan that fits your medical needs and lifestyle. Keep a weight that’s healthy for you. Researchers have linked a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 (obesity) to poorer immune function. Ask your provider what your target weight range should be, and work together to reach it. Catch enough ZZZs. Not getting enough sleep can prevent your immune system from working as it should. Stay up-to-date on vaccines. Vaccines train your body to fight off germs that can make you sick. Talk to your provider about which vaccines you need and when. Avoid smoking and all tobacco products. Tobacco use raises your risk for conditions that can harm your immune system, like rheumatoid arthritis. If you use tobacco, talk to your provider about effective ways to quit.

Who is at risk for autoimmune diseases? Millions of Americans of all ages have autoimmune diseases. Women develop many types of autoimmune diseases much more often than men. And if you have one autoimmune disease, you are more likely to get another.

Status of autoimmune diseases in the US and the world: According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, celiac disease affects about 1% of the global population. Autoimmune diseases encompass more than 100 health disorders and affect more than 24 million people in the US and an estimated one in ten people worldwide. To compound this problem, studies indicate that a rise in detected antinuclear antibodies, biomarkers of autoimmunity, may indicate a rise in the future development of autoimmune diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease are among the more common autoimmune diseases, and recent studies have reported that while autoimmune diseases are more prevalent among females, they may also disproportionately impact specific racial groups. While the direct economic cost of autoimmune disease in the US is difficult to determine, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has estimated that the annual cost to the healthcare system is more than $100 billion, not including the cost of uninsured individuals, which is estimated to be at least another $25 billion per year, according to the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association. This may be a substantial underestimation of the economic burden, however. A 2022 report found that the estimated combined direct and indirect costs associated with just one autoimmune disorder in the US, multiple sclerosis, was $85.4 billion annually.

Summary of the blog:

Immune system and autoimmune disorder: The immune system is a collection of special cells and chemicals that fight infection-causing agents such as bacteria and viruses. Our immune system is the body’s first-line defense against invaders like germs. It helps protect you from getting sick and promotes healing when you’re unwell or injured. An autoimmune disorder occurs when a person's immune system mistakenly attacks their body tissues.

Causes of autoimmune disorders: What triggers an autoimmune disorder is not known. No one is sure why autoimmune diseases happen. But you can't catch them from other people. Some people have genes that make them slightly more likely to develop an autoimmune disorder. However, researchers are still studying what makes your immune system start hurting you in the first place.

Classification of autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune disorders are broadly grouped into two categories – 'organ-specific' means one organ is affected, while in 'non-organ-specific' disorders, multiple organs or body systems may be affected.

Symptoms: Our immune system mistakenly damages our body instead of protecting it causing the symptoms of an autoimmune disease you experience.  Autoimmune diseases can cause a wide range of symptoms. They can affect your body almost literally from head to toe. Despite the different types of autoimmune diseases, many of them share similar symptoms. The main ones are usually inflammation (which can cause redness, heat, pain, and swelling), fatigue, muscle aches, nausea, headaches, and fever, but these symptoms do not apply to all autoimmune diseases (particularly Type 1 diabetes). There are over 100 different autoimmune disorders ranging in severity from mild to disabling. Symptoms vary depending on which disorder develops and which part of the body is affected. The symptoms of autoimmune diseases often overlap, complicating diagnoses. Some cause distressing symptoms that affect a person’s quality of life but otherwise are not life-threatening. Some autoimmune conditions are more serious and can cause lasting tissue damage.  Many autoimmune diseases cause inflammation,  but other illnesses can also cause the same symptoms,  which can include: A feeling of warmth or heat. Discoloration or redness on your skin. Swelling. Pain. Symptoms of individual autoimmune diseases: Individual autoimmune diseases can also have their unique symptoms depending on the body systems affected. For example, Autoimmune hepatitis affects the liver. In type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks the pancreas. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system can attack many parts of the body, including the joints, lungs, and eyes.

Diagnosis: Blood tests that look for autoantibodies can help doctors diagnose these conditions.

Prevention: There is currently no known way to prevent autoimmune diseases.

Treatment: Autoimmune diseases are chronic conditions. This means if you have an autoimmune disease, you’ll probably have to manage it and the symptoms it causes for the rest of your life. There’s no cure for autoimmune diseases, but a healthcare provider can help diagnose and recommend treatments for specific autoimmune conditions. It will suppress the symptoms you experience. Treatment depends on the type of autoimmune disorder and often involves medications that suppress the activity of the immune system to bring down inflammation in the body. In many cases, management strategies such as taking medication, modifying the diet, and making lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms. There are different treatments depending on the disease to be treated. For example, the main treatment for type 1 diabetes is the daily administration of insulin. Patients with coeliac disease need to eliminate gluten from their diet. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis can take anti-inflammatory medication and steroid injections to manage pain. Other treatments include immunosuppressant medication and physical therapy if mobility is affected.  While prescription medications remain at the forefront in the battle against autoimmune disease, researchers are identifying other treatment modalities to help improve patients’ quality of life. Functional medicines offer an alternative to symptom suppression, by addressing the underlying mechanisms that cause autoimmunity. Through collaborative therapeutic partnerships with patients and creating effective, personalized, and sustainable treatment and health strategies, functional medicine practitioners support the health journey of each patient. In most cases, the goal of treatment is to suppress (slow down) your immune system, and ease swelling, redness, and pain from inflammation. The doctor may give the corticosteroids or other medicines to help you feel better. For some diseases, you may need treatment for the rest of your life. Autoimmune diseases take time and effort to manage. It is important to remain positive and reduce stress as you look for treatments.  You may have to try different options before you discover the right way to manage the condition. Sometimes a combination of treatments is necessary to handle an autoimmune disease. It is important to talk to your practitioner if you feel a treatment is not working or has side effects that bother you.  Your healthcare provider may recommend starting treatment with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter therapies. If these methods and drugs are not enough, then you may need prescription medications. Complementary and alternative medicine also offers different techniques for managing autoimmune diseases.   Prognosis: Some autoimmune disorders resolve as inexplicably as they began. However, most autoimmune disorders are chronic. Medications are often required throughout life to control symptoms. The prognosis varies depending on the disorder.

For unknown reasons, women are more susceptible than men, particularly during their childbearing years. It is thought that sex hormones may be at least partly responsible.

Virtually any organ can be affected by an autoimmune disorder.

We can strengthen our immune system by eating nutritious foods, exercising, and getting enough sleep.

Trust your gut. Nobody knows what’s normal for your body better than you. Visit a healthcare provider if you notice any new symptoms you can’t explain, especially if you don’t feel like yourself more often than usual.

Most people with an autoimmune disease can live a relatively normal life.

Disclaimer:

We tried to provide authentic and updated information on the autoimmune diseases. This blog is prepared using data compiled from various websites, as mentioned in the blog. The content given in this blog is only for information purposes. The information and materials contained in this blog are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product, or treatment. Information about a therapy, service, product, or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product, or treatment. It is not intended to serve as medical advice and can not replace medical advice in any form  from the doctor or other registered health professional. It is not a legal and medical document. Always keep in mind that the particular medications and their dosages are decided by the health care provider (doctor or specialist) as per the needs of the individual. It varies from one person to another. I am not a health professional, and this blog is not AI-generated, instead, it is manually written. Therefore, I do not take any responsibility (legal or otherwise) for its typographical error, correctness, completeness, consequences, etc. Before following anything from this blog, it is strongly requested to consult a specialist, doctor, or healthcare provider. Self-medication can be harmful.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org https://www.healthline.com/ https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-treatments https://www.ifm.org https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au https://www.msdmanuals.com https://medlineplus.gov https://www.medicalnewstoday.com https://www.topdoctors.co.uk https://www.verywellhealth.com https://www.google.com

My personal opinion: Health conditions and diseases are the parts of my life. An autoimmune disorder is one of them. I believe in fighting, treating, and defeating any problem that comes into my life. With proper medications and lifestyle changes, we can live a normal life.  Therefore, try hard to win over the problem and enjoy life. Best of luck ===The end ===