Autoimmune disorders

 Autoimmune disorders

Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which your immune system mistakenly damages healthy cells in your body.  The immune system has the job of protecting you from diseases and infections. When it senses these germs, it creates new cells to target foreign cells.

Understanding Autoimmune Disease Pathophysiology

Immune Malfunctions

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s cells, often influenced by the gut. This is due to a malfunction in the immune response. Normally, our immune system defends against pathogens like viruses and bacteria, but in autoimmune disease, it can mistakenly attack the gut. But in autoimmune conditions, it fails to recognise the body’s cells as its own, affecting the gut and leading to disease.

This misdirection in autoimmune disease can lead to systemic inflammation and damage to gut tissues and organs. Various factors trigger these malfunctions. Genetics play a significant role in autoimmune disease, but gut environmental triggers are also crucial. Examples include infections or exposure to certain chemicals.

Here, in an autoimmune disease, the immune system mistakes parts of the body as foreign. It releases autoantibodies that attack healthy cells.

Different autoimmune diseases may have similar early symptoms. These can include:

• fatigue
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• low-grade fever
• muscle aches
• swelling
• trouble concentrating
• numbness and tingling in your hands and feet
• hair loss
• skin rash

Generally speaking, autoimmune disorders cannot be cured. They can, however, be controlled with medications and other treatments. Common symptoms of an autoimmune disorder include fatigue, dizziness or light-headedness, low-grade fever, muscle aches, and swelling.

In people with autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks harmless cells as though they’re dangerous invaders.

Some autoimmune disorders can have similar symptoms at early stages. The most common autoimmune diseases are rheumatoid arthritis, connective tissue diseases, multiple sclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), previously known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis in children. Arthritis is a long-term condition characterized by stiffness, swelling, and pain in the joints. Some children have arthritis for just a few months, while others have arthritis for several years. Most cases of JIA are mild, but severe cases may result in complications, such as joint damage and chronic pain. Knowing the symptoms of JIA is important for getting treatment before the condition progresses.

The most common symptoms of JIA include:

• joint pain
• stiffness
• Reduced range of motion
• warm and swollen joints
• limping
• Redness in the affected area
• swollen lymph nodes
• recurrent fevers

Treatment usually consists of:

• decreasing inflammation
• managing pain
• improving function
• preventing joint damage

Various treatments can effectively manage and minimize the effects of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Healthcare providers usually recommend a combination of treatments to relieve pain and swelling and to maintain movement and strength.

Medical treatment includes Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve), which are often used to reduce inflammation and swelling in conjunction with other treatments. Medications are often prescribed, such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics conjunction with other treatments. Medications are often prescribed, such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics.

Some examples of DMARDs that are used to treat JIA include:

• methotrexate
• sulfasalazine
• leflunomide

It’s important to note that methotrexate is currently recommended over other DMARDs. Biologics work to directly target specific molecules or proteins that are involved in the disease process. Treatment with biologics may be combined with DMARD treatment.

Some examples of biologics that might be used to help decrease inflammation and joint damage include:

• abatacept (Orencia)
• Rituximab (Rituxan)
• tocilizumab (Actemra)
• TNF inhibitors (Humira)

A steroid medication may be injected into the affected joint, particularly when symptoms interfere with the ability to perform daily activities. However, this isn’t recommended when a lot of joints are involved. In severe cases, surgery may be used to replace the joints altogether.

Lifestyle remedies

Exercising and maintaining a healthy diet are important for everyone, but they’re especially beneficial for children who have JIA. Having your child make the following lifestyle adjustments can help them cope with their symptoms more easily and reduce the risk of complications:

Eating well

Weight changes are common in children with JIA. Medications may increase or decrease their appetite, causing rapid weight gain or weight loss. In such cases, a healthful diet containing the right number of calories can help your child to maintain an appropriate body weight.

Exercising regularly

Exercising at least three times per week can strengthen muscles and improve joint flexibility, making it easier to cope with JIA in the long run. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming and walking, are usually best. However, it’s a good idea to speak with your child’s healthcare provider first.

Physical therapy

A physical therapist can teach your child the importance of sticking with an exercise routine and can even recommend exercises suited to their specific condition. The therapist may suggest certain exercises that can help build strength and restore flexibility in stiff, sore joints.

They will work with your primary healthcare provider to help prevent joint damage and bone/joint growth abnormalities.

Untreated JIA can lead to further complications. These include:

• anemia
• long-term recurring pain
• joint destruction
• stunted growth
• uneven limbs
• changes in vision
• pericarditis, or swelling around the heart

While there is no cure for any autoimmune condition, treatments can reduce or eliminate symptoms, slow progression, and improve quality of life.

Specific approaches vary by condition, but common treatments include:

Relieving symptoms

This may involve taking aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce mild pain and swelling or prescribed alternatives, depending on the severity of the symptoms.

Prescription medications can also help with:

• depression
• anxiety
• fatigue
• sleep issues
• rashes

Regular exercise and a balanced, nutritious diet can also help.

Taking replacement drugs

Some autoimmune disorders affect the body’s ability to produce what it needs. For instance, type 1 diabetes keeps the body from creating enough insulin, and thyroid disease prevents it from producing the right amount of thyroid hormone.

Various medications can replace these substances. A person may have insulin injections or take pills containing synthetic versions of thyroid hormone.

Taking immunosuppressants

For many people, medications that suppress the immune system can relieve the symptoms of an autoimmune disorder and slow its progression.

However, these drugs, known as immunosuppressants, can cause side effects.

The blood cells in the body's immune system help protect against harmful substances. Examples include bacteria, viruses, toxins, cancer cells, and blood and tissue from outside the body. These substances contain antigens. The immune system produces antibodies against these antigens that enable it to destroy these harmful substances.

When you have an autoimmune disorder, your immune system does not distinguish between healthy tissue and potentially harmful antigens. As a result, your body sets off a reaction that destroys normal tissues.

The exact cause of autoimmune disorders is unknown. One theory is that some microorganisms (such as bacteria or viruses) or drugs may trigger changes that confuse the immune system. This may happen more often in people who have genes that make them more prone to autoimmune disorders.

An autoimmune disorder may result in:

·        The destruction of body tissue

·        Abnormal growth of an organ

·        Changes in organ function

An autoimmune disorder may affect one or more organ or tissue types. Areas often affected by autoimmune disorders include:

·        Blood vessels

·        Connective tissues

·        Endocrine glands such as the thyroid or pancreas

·        Joints

·        Muscles

·        Red blood cells

·        Skin

A person may have more than one autoimmune disorder at the same time. Common autoimmune disorders include:

·        Addison disease

·        Celiac disease - sprue (gluten-sensitive enteropathy)

·        Dermatomyositis

·        Graves disease

·        Hashimoto thyroiditis

·        Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)

·        Multiple sclerosis

·        Myasthenia gravis

·        Pernicious anaemia

·        Reactive arthritis

·        Rheumatoid arthritis

·        Sjögren syndrome

·        Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus)

·        Type I diabetes

·        Ever wondered if there’s more beyond conventional medicine and drug treatments for autoimmune diseases, including gut microbiome imbalances and food-related illnesses? You’re not alone. Many are turning their gaze towards alternative treatments, such as holistic medicine and functional medicine, seeking relief from illnesses and better health outcomes without relying on traditional drug therapies. These non-traditional paths, including functional medicine and innovative therapies tailored to individual needs, offer a blend of holistic approaches using plants in the study of autoimmune disorders, sparking hope and curiosity among those battling these complex conditions. From dietary changes to acupuncture, the world of alternative treatments, including holistic medicine and functional medicine, is vast and varied, promising new possibilities for managing symptoms of autoimmune disorders and improving quality of life with herbs.

·            Natural Remedies

·        People are turning to natural remedies, including holistic medicine, herbs, and plants, more than ever before. This shift towards holistic medicine is due to the action of systemic inflammation and autoimmune disease side effects of traditional drugs. Natural treatments aim to reduce symptoms without causing harm.

·        Herbs and supplements often come into play here. For instance, turmeric can decrease inflammation in autoimmune disorders. Fish oil is another popular choice. It helps by reducing cytokines in the blood and improving immune system function, having a holistic medicine effect on autoimmune disease.

·        Diet changes are also crucial. Some believe that a leaky gut contributes to autoimmune conditions, affecting blood disease through holistic medicine. Foods like bone broth and probiotics can help heal the gut lining, affecting autoimmune disease.

·            Lifestyle Changes

·        Lifestyle adjustments, including focusing on gut health, play a big role in managing autoimmune diseases, too. Stress reduction techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can lower stress hormones that worsen symptoms of autoimmune disease in the gut.

·        Regular exercise is another key component. It boosts overall health, reduces inflammation in the body, and supports gut health, potentially benefiting those with autoimmune disease.

·        Sleep cannot be overlooked either. A good night’s sleep helps regulate the immune system’s functions, including those related to autoimmune disease and gut health.

·            Holistic Approaches

·        Holistic treatments look at the whole person, not just their autoimmune disease or gut health. Acupuncture has gained attention for its potential benefits for RA patients and others with autoimmune conditions, including gut disease. Massage therapy is another method used to relieve pain, improve blood flow throughout the body, and potentially benefit those with autoimmune disease by influencing gut health.

·        These alternative treatments offer hope beyond conventional medicine. They focus on healing from within, addressing root causes rather than just symptoms of autoimmune disease, with a particular emphasis on the gut. Individuals with autoimmune disease need to work closely with healthcare professionals when exploring gut-related options.

Alternative therapies might include acupuncture, massage, or herbal supplements. These can complement conventional treatments like medication or surgery. The goal is to support the body’s natural healing processes in autoimmune disease.

Personalized Plans

No two people with autoimmune disease are exactly alike in how their bodies react to treatment. That’s why personalised wellness plans are crucial in holistic health strategies.

A personalised plan starts with a thorough assessment of an individual’s health status, lifestyle, and preferences. It considers unique factors such as genetic predispositions and environmental exposures. The plan might incorporate specific dietary recommendations, exercise routines, stress management techniques, and more. This tailored approach helps address the specific needs of each person’s system.

Personalisation ensures that treatment targets not just symptoms but also the underlying causes of disease.

Mind-Body Practices

Mind-body practices play a significant role in enhancing immune function. These practices foster a positive mental state, which can positively influence physical health.

Yoga and meditation are prime examples of mind-body practices beneficial for autoimmune patients. They help reduce stress levels, which is important because stress can trigger flare-ups in many autoimmune conditions. Deep breathing exercises promote relaxation while improving oxygen flow throughout the body.

Another aspect involves mindfulness training, which enhances awareness of one’s body signals. Being mindful helps individuals make healthier choices that support their overall well-being.

Nutrition and Diet Management Strategies

Anti-Inflammatory Diets

Eating the right foods can be powerful. Many autoimmune diseases flare up due to inflammation. Thus, anti-inflammatory diets are key. They focus on whole foods that calm the immune response rather than trigger it.

Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats form the core of such diets. For example, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Berries contain antioxidants that support overall health.

Avoiding processed foods and sugars is also crucial. These can worsen inflammation and symptoms. Making these dietary changes isn’t just about removing harmful elements; it’s about embracing nutritious ones that heal.

Gut Health Impact

The gut plays a pivotal role in our immune system function. An unhealthy gut can exacerbate autoimmune conditions because much of our immune system resides there.

Probiotics found in yoghurt or fermented foods like kimchi help balance gut bacteria. This balance supports a healthier immune response, which could lessen disease symptoms.

Prebiotic foods such as garlic and onions feed good bacteria in the gut, promoting a stronger defence

 mechanism against autoimmune reactions.

Key Nutrients

Certain nutrients stand out when managing autoimmune diseases through diet:

·        Omega-3s reduce inflammation.

·        Vitamin D may modulate the immune system.

·        Antioxidants protect cells from damage.

Incorporating these into your diet could make a significant difference:

1.    Eat fatty fish twice weekly for omega-3s.

2.    Spend 15 minutes in sunlight daily or consider vitamin D supplements after consulting with a healthcare provider.

3.    Include colourful fruits and vegetables for antioxidants.

Remember, no single food will cure an autoimmune disease, but combining these strategies might improve quality of life significantly.

Herbal and Supplement Support for Immune Modulation

Evidence-Based Herbs

Herbs have been used for centuries to support health, including modulating the immune system. Some herbs are known for their ability to balance immune response, which is crucial in managing autoimmune diseases. Artemisia and certain types of mushrooms, such as Reishi and Cordyceps, stand out in this regard.

These plants contain chemical constituents that can influence the behaviour of white blood cells, helping reduce excessive inflammatory responses without suppressing the immune system’s ability to fight infections. Artemisia, for example, has been studied for its effects on reducing inflammatory cytokines, molecules that play a key role in autoimmune reactions.

Nutritional Supplements

Filling nutritional gaps is another essential strategy in supporting immune modulation. Certain supplements can provide nutrients that directly impact immune health and help address gut microbiome imbalances, a common issue in autoimmune conditions.

·        Omega-3 fatty acids

·        Vitamin D

·        Probiotics

These supplements contribute to reducing inflammation and supporting a healthy gut microbiome, which is closely linked with overall immune function. For instance, omega-3s are known to have anti-inflammatory effects, while vitamin D plays a critical role in modulating the body’s defence mechanisms against pathogens.