When good cells go bad
When good cells go bad. A lighthearted look at autoimmune diseases
Imagine hiring a security guard to protect your house, only to discover that he keeps thinking you are an intruder in your living room. That, in a nutshell, is how autoimmune diseases work. Your immune system, which is supposed to defend you from outside invaders like viruses and bacteria, suddenly mistakes your body as the enemy. Talk about a misunderstanding.
There are more than 80 types of autoimmune diseases. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences explains that autoimmune conditions happen when the immune system attacks healthy cells, tissues or organs. No one knows the exact reason why autoimmune diseases occur. However, common factors include genetics, infections and environmental triggers.
Some of the most common types of autoimmune diseases include:
- Type 1 diabetes: Your immune system decides your pancreas is now the enemy and attacks the insulin-producing cells.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Joints become stiff and swollen because your immune system mistakes them for an invading army.
- Lupus: A condition where your immune system seems to believe every organ signed up for the battle of the century.
- Psoriasis: When skin cells grow too quickly, giving you patches that look like your body is experimenting with a new art style.
According to Stanford Medicine, autoimmune diseases affect more women than men, often during childbearing years.
Symptoms vary widely, which makes diagnosis tricky. Fatigue, joint pain, skin problems and recurring fevers are common. Because of this, getting a diagnosis can feel like competing in a medical game show called Guess That Autoimmune Disease.
While no cure exists, treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce immune system overreactions. So, if your body’s security guard keeps tackling you, doctors can give him some new guidelines. The National Library of Medicine recommends balancing activity with rest, managing stress and working closely with your care team to help lower your symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
Autoimmune diseases may sound intimidating, but with growing research and better treatments, science is working hard to ensure your body works properly against the right intruders.
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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
