Autoimmune Disorders - 5 Common Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy tissues and organs, causing inflammation and damage. There are over 80 different types, some affecting specific organs (like Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis), while others are systemic (like Lupus). Common symptoms include fatigue, fever, and joint pain, and while there is no universal cure, treatments focus on managing symptoms. Genetics, environmental factors, and infections are believed to contribute to their development. 

Normally, the immune system protects the body from pathogens. In an autoimmune disease, it fails to distinguish between foreign invaders and the body's own cells. The immune system produces autoantibodies that target healthy tissues and organs, leading to inflammation and damage.

Commonly prevailing Autoimmune Diseases includes:
 

• Type 1- Diabetes: 

  • The immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. 

• Type 2 - Multiple Sclerosis (MS): 

  • The immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. 

• Type 3 - Rheumatoid Arthritis: 

  • The immune system targets the lining of the joints, causing swelling and pain. 

• Type 4 - Lupis (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus): 

  • This systemic condition can affect many parts of the body, including the skin, joints, heart, lungs, and kidneys. 

• Type 5 - Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): 

  • Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis involve immune system attacks on the digestive tract. 

Common Causes and associated risk factors for autoimmune Disorders includes, Genetic factors where by these disorders run in to families. Exposure to viruses, certain chemicals, and other environmental factors can trigger or worsen these conditions. Additionally, some infections can initiate or exacerbate autoimmune diseases. Symptoms vary depending on the specific autoimmune disease but can include: Fatigue, Fever, Muscle aches and joint pain, Skin problems, and Swelling.

There is no complete cure for most of the Autoimmune Disorders but treatment aims to ease the symptomatic relief and there by managing the disease condition and slow down the progression. Hence by adopting proper treatment modalities many people can live long life even after having Autoimmune disorders.