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Autoimmune Diseases

Your immune system is constantly looking out for you. When harmful substances, such as bacteria or viruses, enter your body, your immune system sends antibodies to attack the invader. As long as your immune system works properly, this process helps keep you from getting sick.

If you have an autoimmune condition, such as lupus, your immune system cannot distinguish between harmful substances and normal, healthy tissues in your body. Your immune system may attack those healthy tissues as if they were an invader.

Autoimmune conditions can affect many different areas of your body, including your blood vessels, endocrine system, joints, muscles and skin.

Types of autoimmune diseases

Scientists currently believe there are at least 80 types of autoimmune conditions. Some rheumatologic autoimmune conditions include:

Symptoms and complications from autoimmune conditions will vary from person to person, so it’s important to work closely with a provider to receive high-quality care.

Treatment options for autoimmune conditions

Treatment will depend on the type of autoimmune condition you have, as well as the type and severity of your symptoms.

People with conditions like lupus tend to experience flare-ups, which are temporary periods when symptoms become worse. If you have flare-ups, your provider will focus on reducing their severity. Generally, the goal of autoimmune treatment is to control symptoms, while helping your immune system continue to fight disease.

Types of treatment for autoimmune conditions may include:

  • Medications to reduce the autoimmune response (such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressive therapy)
  • Physical therapy to reduce pain and swelling

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune condition that can affect almost any organ in your body. While it can be associated with a rash across the cheeks and bridge of the nose, not everyone who has lupus gets this rash. Lupus symptoms vary from person to person. The most common symptoms include:

  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Joint pain or swelling
  • Kidney problems
  • Muscle pain
  • Sensitivity to sunlight

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