Western medicine defines it as a disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues.  Some of the common autoimmune diseases include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, schleroderma, Sjögren’s syndrome, celiac disease.

Each autoimmune disease has its own set of symptoms.

No.  Even though both conditions involve the immune system, they are not the same.  In autoimmune disease, the immune system is believed to be too strong (overactive) and begins to attack the body’s own cells, tissues and organs.  In AIDS, which is the most advanced state of HIV infection, the immune system is too weak and can no longer protect the body on its own.  Also, AIDS is contagious, autoimmune disease is not.

Do not panic.  Educate yourself about the disease using credible sources.  Ask your physician about your treatment options, then carefully evaluate each option and make an informed decision.  

Even though there are no known cures for autoimmune diseases, you have treatment options; it’s just a matter of you deciding which one is right for you! 

Autoimmune diseases are complex and may be difficult to diagnose.  You may experience symptoms such as fatigue, low-grade fever, swelling, trouble concentrating, shared by various autoimmune diseases, so putting a specific label on yours may not happen immediately.  

Partner with a medical professional you can trust who will listen and help in putting the pieces together to identify your specific condition.  In the meantime, your doctor’s suggested treatment plan may be to address the symptoms you are currently experiencing.

Even if your test results come back negative, in case of a common and well-described disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, your diagnosis maybe based on physical presentation, e.g. swollen joints.  Also, at the onset of the condition, the test may not show presence of the disease.

Much research has been and continues to be dedicated to understanding the causes for autoimmune disease.  While there is no single cause, research indicates that several factors may trigger an autoimmune disease.  

These may include one or a combination of the following factors: genetic, hormonal, environmental (e.g. stress, diet, smoking, infection, medicine, exposure to chemicals, vitamin D deficiency).

While there are currently no known cures for autoimmune diseases, making lifestyle adjustments may help manage symptoms and feel better.  

These may include some or all of the following self-care practices: reducing or eliminating stress, exercising to the extent that you can, getting good sleep, eating healthy, meditating, doing something meaningful in your day.

Your life will change, but if you can manage your symptoms, you may still have a fulfilling and full life.  Be realistic about what you can and cannot do and prepare yourself for the ups and downs of living with a chronic condition.  Some days you may feel great, while other days maybe very challenging.  

You will need to be patient with yourself, listen to your body and slow down when it feels overburdened.  Be kind to yourself and remember to love your body even when it is aching and not feeling its best.