All You Need to Know About Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune means an abnormal immune reaction against one's own body parts. Almost 4% of the global population lives with autoimmune diseases. These diseases are more prevalent among women than men (2:1 ratio). 

The immune system is typically responsible for identifying and attacking foreign substances like bacteria or viruses to safeguard the body against infections. Yet, in autoimmune diseases, there is a malfunction where the immune system cannot differentiate between the body's own cells and external invaders, resulting in an immune response directed at its own tissues. Thus, in these conditions, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and damages its own healthy cells, tissues and organs, leading to inflammation and dysfunction. 

Autoimmune diseases can affect any body part. There are around 80 autoimmune diseases known to scientists today. Most have no definitive cure and need lifelong management of symptoms. Dive into this article to understand the symptoms associated with this disorder and ways to manage the condition.

Types of Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases are broadly classified in two types; organ-specific (immune response acts against particular antigens specific to certain organs or tissues) and systemic (immune response works against antigens present in several organs or tissues). Here are some commonly occurring autoimmune diseases:

Rheumatoid Arthritis

It is a systemic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the musculoskeletal parts. The symptoms include pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints and muscles. Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis are at a greater risk of developing:

• Cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses

• Severe infections

• Osteoporosis

• Cancer

Multiple Sclerosis

It is also a systemic inflammatory, autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the central nervous system. It also interferes with the myelin (protective sheath) insulation of brain cells or neurons, causing a delay in message transmission across the body. Dietary changes, exercise and hyperbaric oxygen therapy can remit this disorder.

Lupus

It is a multisystemic, autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints, skin and other organs. The formation of abnormal autoantibodies and immune complexes causes organ damage. Lupus is a chronic disease characterized by a wide range of symptoms across the body. The most common type is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Type 1 Diabetes

It is an organ-specific autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the pancreatic beta cells. It affects insulin production leading to abnormal blood glucose volumes. Individuals with type 1 diabetes show an increased risk of developing other autoimmune disorders.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the immune system attacks the intestinal lining and bowels. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are the two subtypes of IBD. In some individuals with IBD, the inflammation extends to other areas of the body outside the intestines. Prolonged antibiotic use for treatment and increased severity enhance the risk of developing additional autoimmune conditions in IBD patients.

Psoriasis

It is a chronic, inflammatory, organ-specific autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the skin cells. Most of the time, psoriasis develops because of other autoimmune conditions like multiple sclerosis, lupus and celiac disease. The cells multiply too quickly and form swollen patches on the skin. 30% of patients with psoriasis have a chance of developing psoriatic arthritis.

Autoimmune Diseases Symptoms

The commonly occurring autoimmune diseases are symptomatic and easily diagnosable in the early stages. However, for rarer types, identifying symptoms can be challenging. Here is a list of the general symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases. However, its important to note that symptoms can vary widely among individuals and not all patients will experience all of these symptoms.

Here are the common Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases

• Fatigue and Weakness
• Joint Pain and Stiffness
• Skin Rashes and Hives
• Digestive Problems
• Fever and Swollen Glands
• Hair Loss
• Numbness and Tingling

Here, we discuss the common Autoimmune Diseases symptoms.

Fatigue and Weakness

Most autoimmune diseases make the individual feel unusually tired and weak. It can interfere with daily tasks and can make regular activities seem difficult.

Joint Pain and Stiffness

Sudden, unexplained complaints of stiff and painful joints indicate a possibility of autoimmune diseases. Multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis may be the probable diagnosis.

Skin Rashes and Hives

Autoimmune conditions like psoriasis, type 1 diabetes and lupus may result in red, itchy bumps on the skin. Individuals suffering from chronic, autoimmune diseases are more prone to hives (red, raised welts on the skin).

Digestive Problems

Weight loss, abdominal bloating, gastritis, and diarrhoea are possible symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases.

Fever and Swollen Glands

Lymph node swelling and low-grade, recurrent fever are common symptoms of autoimmune disorders. 

Hair Loss

The immune system may attack the hair follicles, causing hair loss. It is one of the symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

Numbness and Tingling

Since the immune system may attack nerves in many autoimmune diseases, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet are one of the first symptoms. It may progress to a prickling sensation or muscle weakness.

Causes of Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body's immune system fails to distinguish between its own cells and foreign cells, leading to the immune system mistakenly attacking normal cells. The following section discusses some significant causes that bring about autoimmune disorders. Genetics, environmental factors, hormonal imbalances, and infections can all play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases.

Genetics

Studies show that most autoimmune diseases can be hereditary. The presence of specific genes may increase the chances of an individual inheriting an autoimmune disease like lupus, type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. Research has shown that different autoimmune diseases possess the same genetic modifications. This finding suggests a shared pathway to the formation of autoimmunity through these diseases.

Environmental Factors

Toxins, dietary components and infections are risk factors contributing to an increased chance of developing autoimmune diseases. Other environmental triggers are climate, chemical exposure, stress, smoking and a high-salt, high-fat diet.

Hormones

Hormonal deficiency or imbalance is also a causative agent of autoimmune diseases. Some autoimmune diseases are more prevalent in women due to increased hormonal changes during menstruation or pregnancy.

Infections

Bacterial and viral infections can trigger autoimmune diseases. If some viral proteins resemble human proteins, it may generate an autoimmune response. The immune system starts attacking the host tissue.

Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases

There is no definitive cure for autoimmune diseases. However, managing the symptoms through treatment is possible. Depending on the type, an endocrinologist or rheumatologist may be the correct medical practitioner to treat these diseases. An individual's immune system, environmental exposure and genetic predisposition matter while chalking out the treatment schedule. However, the most appropriate treatment can vary based on the specific disease and individual factors.

Some current treatment procedures available for autoimmune diseases are:

• Physical therapy

• Anti-cytokine therapy

• Medications like anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants and corticosteroids

• Biological inhibition of T-cells and signaling pathways

• Stem cell transplantation

Medications Used to Treat Autoimmune Diseases

The objective of administering medicines while treating autoimmune diseases is to suppress the immune system and ease inflammation and pain. Although the treatment is disease-specific, here are some commonly used medications for treating autoimmune disorders:

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

They decrease inflammation, fever and pain because of their antipyretic and analgesic properties. Ibuprofen and naproxen are some common examples of NSAIDs. Physicians should assess associated health conditions before prescribing these medicines.

• Corticosteroids

These anti-inflammatory drugs can treat autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Doctors prescribe minimum, effective doses to achieve specific targets, such as inducing remission and controlling symptoms.

• Disease-modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)

These medicines reduce inflammation and manage long-term symptoms. They are not designed to provide immediate relief and can take weeks to act. Methotrexate is an example. These medications can and often do have side effects; the severity and type can vary among individuals.

• Immunosuppressant Drugs

They help in preventing inflammation and cell damage by suppressing the immune system. Some autoimmune diseases that can be treated into remission by these drugs include IBD, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis and alopecia.

Lifestyle changes for Managing Autoimmune Diseases

The best way to manage the condition and control symptoms for the majority of patients is by introducing conscious changes in one's lifestyle. Here is a list of lifestyle changes that can help an individual live with autoimmune disorders:

• Including anti-inflammatory food in the diet, such as green vegetables and fish

• Avoiding fatty, high-calorie food

• Exercising moderately

• Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule

• Taking care of the gut microbiome

• Managing stress levels

Alternative Therapies for Autoimmune Diseases

Alternative therapies or techniques not involving traditional medications are relatively new in treating autoimmune diseases. Natural medicines and nutritional therapy have shown a considerable effect in alleviating symptoms. Consuming supplements may also help. Many patients tend to follow non-conventional modes of treatment to manage autoimmune diseases include acupuncture, reiki, aqua-therapy, chelation therapy (removal of toxins) and nutrition-based treatments like homoeopathy. One should note that while some alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and certain nutritional treatments, have shown promise in symptom relief for some individuals, the efficacy can vary and more research is needed. It's essential to consult with healthcare professionals before starting alternative treatments.

Conclusion

Autoimmune diseases lead to complications that increase morbidity and mortality of patients. It is because these are associated with chronic symptoms. These diseases are more prevalent among young and middle-aged women. However, conservative treatment can manage the condition by controlling the symptoms. While preventing autoimmune diseases may not be possible, one can exercise consistently and make suitable lifestyle changes to be safe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are The Most Common Autoimmune Diseases?

Out of almost 80 autoimmune diseases known to scientists, the most common are multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, lupus, psoriasis and Crohn's disease.

2. Can Autoimmune Diseases Be Cured?

There is no permanent cure for autoimmune diseases. However, managing the symptoms is possible. Personalized medications (anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids) and therapeutic options can help manage the condition. Making conscious lifestyle changes also helps. 

3. How are Autoimmune Diseases Diagnosed?

Early diagnosis of autoimmune diseases is difficult, especially if connected to multiple organs. Some diagnostic methods are physical examination, blood tests, antinuclear antibody tests, examining the medical history, X-rays, urine analysis and biopsy.

4. Can Lifestyle Changes Improve Autoimmune Disease Symptoms?

Lifestyle modifications can have a positive impact on the overall well-being of individuals with autoimmune disorders, potentially reducing inflammatory reactions and managing symptoms. These modifications encompass dietary changes, regular exercise to improve mobility, stress reduction techniques and prioritising healthy sleep patterns.