Normally, the human immune system is responsible for protecting the body against foreign invaders, such as viruses. That is, with the entry of any foreign force, the defense cells prepare to fight it, but when a person gets an autoimmune disease, it means that his body’s immune system has lost the ability to identify its own cells from foreign factors, and as a result, it mistakenly identifies cells as foreign. It attacks the healthy and natural tissues and organs of the body itself.
Symptoms of autoimmune diseases can vary greatly depending on the specific condition and the part of the body that is affected. However, some common signs and symptoms include:
• Fatigue: excessive tiredness that does not improve with rest.
• Joint pain or swelling: painful and swollen joints or muscles that may be tender to the touch.
• Skin rash: red, scaly spots or raised bumps on the skin. .
• Digestive problems: stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and bloating.
• Fever: high body temperature without apparent cause.
• Hair loss: thinning or hair loss from the scalp or other parts of the body.
• Sensitivity to cold: feeling cold even in warm temperatures.
• Raynaud’s syndrome: white or blue fingers and toes in response to cold or stress.
• Neurological symptoms: tingling, numbness, weakness or poor coordination.
• Mood changes: depression, anxiety or irritability
Diagnosing autoimmune diseases can be challenging because many symptoms overlap with other medical conditions. Doctors may order blood tests, imaging studies, and biopsies to help identify the underlying cause of symptoms.
This disease includes different types, the number of which is increasing, and maybe they can be considered about 80 types. Some of the most common disorders are:
• MS: It is a type of disorder in which the protective sheath of nerve cells (myelin) is damaged. In fact, this sheath is supposed to act as a covering and keep the cell away from damage, but MS disrupts its function, resulting in a disruption in the messaging between the body and the brain.
• Celiac: This autoimmune disease appears when eating gluten. When gluten enters the intestine, a feeling of inflammation and burning occurs.
• Type 1 diabetes: In this disorder, the patient’s body attacks the cells that produce the hormone insulin, and as a result, it becomes difficult to control blood sugar.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: In this disease, the body’s immune system attacks the joints and causes severe pain.
• Intestinal inflammation: Intestinal inflammation cannot be considered just one type of disease, because it has different models, each of which damages different parts of the digestive system.
• Vascular inflammation: There is another type of inflammation where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the blood vessels. As a result, the vessels are blocked and the blood pressure becomes lower.
• Chronic anemia: Anemia is a type of autoimmune disease that occurs due to the lack of a type of protein.
• Addison’s disease: Addison’s disease is one of the most common autoimmune disorders that affects the kidney glands. These glands must produce the hormones aldosterone and cortisol in order to regulate the carbohydrate and sugar ratio correctly.
• Sjögren’s syndrome: It is considered one of the most important autoimmune diseases. The affected person usually has dry eyes, dry mouth and joint pain. Because this disease not only affects the joints, but also damages the glands that keep the eyes and mouth moist.
• Graves: This disease affects the thyroid gland and causes excessive production of its hormones.
Treatment of autoimmune diseases usually involves managing symptoms and slowing or stopping the progression of the disease. This can include a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and alternative therapies. Some common treatments include:
• Medications: Immunosuppressive drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroids are commonly used to manage the symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
• Diet and exercise: Eating a healthy diet and staying active can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
• Reduce stress: Stress can exacerbate autoimmune diseases, so practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can help manage symptoms.
• Alternative therapies: Acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal supplements may also be helpful in managing symptoms.
Consequently, autoimmune diseases are complex conditions that require careful management and treatment. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is imperative that you seek medical attention promptly. With proper care and treatment, many people with autoimmune diseases can live happy and fulfilling lives.