Autoimmune Disease

The immune system normally protects the body from infections and disease brought about by bacteria, viruses, germs, or abnormal body cells. When an autoimmune disease develops, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own tissues and organs.

Many parts of the body such as the red blood cells, blood vessels, connective tissues, digestive system, endocrine system, muscles, joints, nerves and skin may be affected. Autoimmune diseases predominantly affect women, frequently during their childbearing years. These diseases often tend to be hereditary, and certain environmental factors may also contribute to a weakened immune system.

Autoimmune disease symptoms vary from individual to individual, with each disease being different. Ranging from mild symptoms to more debilitating conditions, a malfunction of the immune system occurs in all of them.

Classes of Autoimmune Disease

Systemic autoimmune diseases are characterized by the involvement of many different organs and organ systems.The most common examples of systemic autoimmune diseases are:

* Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Juvenile RA (JRA) - joints; less commonly lung, skin
* Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) - skin, joints, kidneys, heart, brain, red blood cells,
* Scleroderma - skin, intestine, less commonly lung
* Sjogren's syndrome - salivary glands, tear glands, joints
* Goodpasture's syndrome - lungs, kidneys
* Wegener's granulomatosis - blood vessels, sinuses, lungs, kidneys
* Polymyalgia Rheumatica - large muscle groups
* Guillain-Barre syndrome - nervous system

Localized autoimmune diseases are characterized by the involvement of only a single organ, organ system or tissue.The most common types include:

* Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (pancreatic islets)
* Hashimoto's thyroiditis, or Graves' disease (thyroid gland)
* Celiac disease, Crohn's disease, Ulcerative colitis (GI tract)
* Multiple sclerosis
* Addison's disease (adrenal)
* Primary biliary cirrhosis, Sclerosing cholangitis,
Autoimmune hepatitis (liver)
* Pernicious anemia (stomach)
* Myasthenia gravis
* Dermatomyositis
* Temporal Arteritis / Giant Cell Arteritis (arteries of the head and neck)

Diagnosing Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune diseases are not always easy to diagnose, especially during the earlier stages of the disease. Symptoms are often vague and difficult to describe. The diagnosis is usually based on a physical examination, symptoms of the individual, and a complete medical history.

Laboratory tests may also be performed to determine the diagnosis of certain autoimmune disorders.

Tests to Diagnose Autoimmune Disease

* Blood tests
* Specific antibody tests
* Thyroid function tests to test for thyroid disorders such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism
* Rheumatoid factor test
* Acetylcholine receptor antibody test to test for myasthenia gravis

Symptoms of Autoimmune Disease

The symptoms of autoimmune disease vary depending on the disease as well as the person’s immune system. Common symptoms include:

* Inflammation
* Fatigue
* Dizziness
* Malaise
* Elevated fever and high body temperature
* Extreme sensitivity to cold in the hands and feet
* Weakness and stiffness in muscles and joints
* Weight changes
* Digestive or gastrointestinal problems
* Low or high blood pressure
* Irritability, anxiety, or depression
* Infertility or reduced sex drive (low libido)
* Blood sugar changes

Depending on the type of autoimmune disease, an increase in the size of an organ or tissue or the destruction of an organ or tissue can result.

What Causes Autoimmune Disease?

The exact cause of what triggers the onset of an autoimmune disease has not yet been conclusively established. These diseases occur when the body attacks its own tissues, thus affecting the functioning of that system of the body.

There are many different underlying factors that may contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases.

Contributing Causes of Autoimmune Disease

* Environmental toxins
* Heredity or genetics
* Viruses
* Sunlight
* Iodine
* Stress and anxiety
* Pregnancy

Poor diet, lack of exercise, lack of sleep, abuse of alcohol and use of tobacco can also weaken the immune system.

Help for Autoimmune Disease

Most autoimmune diseases cannot be cured, although much can be done to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. The treatment of an autoimmune disease depends on the symptoms associated with a specific disease.

There are various treatment options such as conventional medicine, complementary therapy, or natural remedies that can help to reduce the severity of symptoms.

Conventional Medicine

* Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen may treat mild symptoms of an autoimmune disease, serving as anti-inflammatories or pain reducers.
* Prescription drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or powerful immunosuppressants are often prescribed to control the inflammation and subsequent damage.
* Antidepressants and other psychiatric medications may be prescribed for the psychological effects and symptoms.
* Radiation therapy.
* Plasmapheresis (a ‘filtration’ procedure that removes the diseased cells and harmful molecules from the blood circulation.)

Natural Remedies

There are many natural remedies that offer an alternative to conventional anti-inflammatories. Not only can they soothe the over-active and misguided immune system, but natural anti-inflammatories can also help to restore the body’s self-healing mechanisms and natural balance.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies are 100% natural and gentle, yet effective to use without the potential side effects of prescription medications. Herbs such as sarsaparilla and yarrow can be used to detoxify the bloodstream. These herbs are able to cleanse the blood and act as natural anti-inflammatories for muscles and joints. Boswellia, Devil’s Claw, Ginger and Turmeric are effective for treating the symptoms of autoimmune disorders. Other herbs such as yucca can reduce muscle pain and stiffness, and if used as a shampoo, may help those who suffer from skin disorders.

Tissue salts and homeopathic ingredients are also highly effective aids to restoring balance, health and vitality, as they do not over-stimulate the immune system. They are nutroceuticals (nutritional substances), which can help to relieve the symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases and improve functioning. Ingredients such as Natrium sulphate, Kalium phosphate and Natrium phosphate can optimize the nervous system and lift the mood. Consult your physician, herbalist or homeopath about the best treatment for your needs.

Complementary Therapy

* Acupuncture
* Dietary modifications
* Tai Chi
* Psychotherapy and counseling
* Touch therapy such as reiki
* Music therapy
* Iridology (pinpoints the areas of weakness in the body and assesses how specific nutrition and lifestyle changes may promote mental, emotional and physical health.)

Tips for Coping with Autoimmune Disease

When you are diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, it is very important that you learn to manage your disease. Many simple lifestyle changes can alleviate symptoms, such as eating foods high in certain ingredients that are known as natural anti-inflammatories. Follow these suggestions to help you cope more effectively with your illness:

* Eat a healthy diet of fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains, low fat dairy products, fish and poultry.
* Exercise regularly – gentle exercise such as walking, yoga, light aerobics.
* Increase your intake of dietary supplements such as omega-3 oils, and vitamin C, E, A, D, K and B complex.
* Spend time in the natural sunlight because exposure to sunlight is good for the immune system health (but remember not to overdo it!).
* Be involved in your illness and treatment plan – make an effort to understand your illness and ask questions about your symptoms, what changes may occur, side effects and medication.
* Be honest and open with your doctor, and do not be afraid to discuss your symptoms no matter how trivial they may seem.
* Get enough sleep and try not to overexert yourself with strenuous activities.
* Reduce stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or imagery.
* Join a support group where you will be able to relate to others in a similar condition.
* Allow family and friends time to adjust to your illness, but gaining their support will have a positive effect on your emotional health.
* Communicate openly with your partner about your illness and the emotions that you are experiencing.


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The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.