Our immune system fights and prevents bacteria and viruses from entering our bodies. The immune system can generally recognize the “bad” cells from the “good” cells – but with autoimmune disorders, the body’s immune system targets its own healthy cells, and usually only a specific kind of cell.
While there are no known causes of autoimmune disorders, we do know some of the triggers of their exacerbations (flare-ups). Researchers say that genetics, diet, infection, exposure to chemicals, or a combination of those may be involved.
What Are the Most Common Autoimmune Conditions?
The following are a few of the most common autoimmune disorders in the United States:
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the lining of the joints, but the inflammation can spread to other organs of the body as well. The inflammation can affect the joints, skin, eyes, lungs, blood vessels, and heart, and can cause permanent disability.
Since it is an autoimmune disorder, the root cause of RA is unknown. Symptoms of RA may include the following:
- Joint swelling
- Joint pain
- Decreased movement
- Fatigue
RA will start to affect your smaller joints first. If not treated immediately, it will spread to larger joints of your body and then to organs. Its autoimmune factor makes RA vastly different from osteoarthritis.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes inflamed, red patches and scales on your skin due to a rapid buildup of skin cells. They are commonly visible in joint areas such as elbows and knees, but they can also appear on the hands, neck, and scalp.
External triggers like sunburn and injury may contribute to the development of psoriasis in susceptible people. There are various types of psoriasis, and some cases are associated with arthritis – this is called psoriatic arthritis.
Treatments for psoriasis will depend on your overall health, the severity of the condition, and your body’s tolerance for specific medications. There are also custom-prepared treatments to help lessen inflammation and to smooth out cracked skin.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, because the autoimmune reaction destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. Insulin is a hormone the body needs to convert sugar (glucose) into energy.
Risk factors of type 1 diabetes include genetics and exposure to viruses and other environmental factors. While this disorder usually first appears during childhood, adults can also develop this type of diabetes.
Its symptoms can include:
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Blurred vision
Although type 1 diabetes has no cure, there are numerous treatments to help prevent it from getting worse and to help alleviate its symptoms. Treatments primarily focus on managing the client’s blood sugar levels by taking insulin shots, following a proper diet, and making other crucial lifestyle changes. Your healthcare provider may also recommend nutritional supplements to strengthen your body.
Wellness Center in Fort Worth, Texas
Most autoimmune disorders are chronic, and managing their symptoms can be challenging. More severe problems can arise without proper care and management.
Here at AlphaCare Wellness Center, Dr. Catherine Oseni will work with you and your doctor to provide holistic and alternative therapy options such as lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, or nutraceutical supplementation.
Our clinic’s integrative services are designed not only to help you recover from and manage your current condition, but also to improve and maintain your overall health. To schedule a consultation, call (817) 550-6332 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to seeing you here.
