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What are Autoimmune Diseases?
Autoimmune disorders are conditions in which the immune system fails to differentiate between healthy tissue and potentially harmful agents. The immune system, which protects the body from infections, turns on itself, leading to various diseases. Autoimmune diseases may be organ-bounded (ex: autoimmune hypothyroidism) or systemic, involving multiple organs (ex: rheumatoid arthritis). Unfortunately, there is a lack of awareness when it comes to autoimmune diseases. Some of the facts associated with autoimmune diseases are,
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These are the third most common category of diseases in the US after cancer and cardiovascular diseases and affect 5–8% of the population.
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Around 80% of those affected by such diseases are women.
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We do not have robust prevalence data from India; however, it is evident that these diseases are on the rise.
What Causes Autoimmune Diseases?
The etiology of autoimmune diseases is multifactorial, with environmental factors, genes, and hormonal factors all playing a significant role. Women have stronger immunity and are less prone to infections. The consequence for this stronger immune response is a higher risk of getting autoimmune diseases.
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Individuals with a family history of autoimmune disease are susceptible to suffering from autoimmune disorders.
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Smoking is an important modifiable risk factor for several diseases, including autoimmune diseases.
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Exposure to drugs and other toxins can also predispose an individual to autoimmune diseases.
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Other less clear triggers include diets rich in processed food, high carbohydrate, and saturated fats, lack of exercise, psychological stress, and decreased sleep.
If you are experiencing any symptoms, get the best Autoimmune Diseases Treatment in Sarjapur Road by booking an appointment.
Who is Affected by These Diseases?
Although autoimmune diseases are more common in women of reproductive age groups, they can affect men of all ages including children and the elderly. Certain autoimmune diseases are common in specific age groups, such as Kawasaki’s disease, which occurs only in children, and giant cell arteritis which affects the elderly. Autoimmune diseases occur in all age groups, genders, and races.
What is the Most Common Autoimmune Disease?
Some of the common autoimmune diseases include,
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Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
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Rheumatoid arthritis
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Sjogren’s syndrome
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Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
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Multiple sclerosis
Some autoimmune diseases may affect a single organ; others are systemic diseases. For example, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis affects the thyroid only, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disease.
How are These Diseases Treated?
Autoimmune diseases are generally chronic and require clinical intervention and long-term treatment for control. Currently, there is no sure-shot cure for most autoimmune disorders. The treatment varies based on the nature of the disease, organ involvement, and severity. While it may not be possible to change our genes or hormonal fluctuations, several other risk factors may be modifiable. Smoking is one such factor. Others include a healthy diet, exercise, and adequate sleep.
Patients with symptoms suggestive of any of these diseases must not neglect the symptoms and get evaluated early. With appropriate treatment and support, most patients with autoimmune diseases can lead a normal life. For accurate diagnosis and the best treatment, you can visit the top Rheumatology hospitals in Sarjapur Road.
Common Symptoms of Some Autoimmune Diseases
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Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (Autoimmune hypothyroidism)
Common Symptoms
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May be asymptomatic in early stages.
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Fatigue, slowness, cold intolerance, and weight gain.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis
Common Symptoms
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Joint pains with swelling and stiffness, Deformities at later stages.
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Fatigue
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Sjogren’s syndrome
Common Symptoms
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Joint pain with swelling and stiffness.
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Fatigue
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Dry eyes and dry mouth.
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Systemic lupus erythematosus
Common Symptoms
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Joint pains, skin rashes, and oral ulcers.
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Fatigue, and decreased blood counts.
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Kidney involvement
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Multiple sclerosis
Common Symptoms
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Numbness, tingling
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Muscle weakness, muscle spasms, and change in gait.
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Fatigue
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Bladder and bowel involvement
FAQ's
While there's no cure, various treatments exist, including medical management, physical therapy, surgery, and lifestyle changes.
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