Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body. This malfunction of the immune system can cause a wide range of symptoms and affect various organs and systems in the body. It is estimated that there are more than 80 different types of autoimmune diseases, each with its own characteristics and specific treatments.
The 6 main types of autoimmune diseases
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect different parts of the body, such as the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs and brain. Lupus symptoms can vary widely and include fatigue, rashes, joint pain, fever, and kidney problems. Although there is no cure, treatment can help control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, stiffness and swelling. As it progresses, rheumatoid arthritis can irreparably damage joints and other tissues in the body. Early treatment with immunosuppressive medications and biological therapies can help control the progression of the disease.
Celiac disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system reacts in a negative way. abnormally to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. This reaction causes damage to the lining of the small intestine and makes it difficult to absorb nutrients. Symptoms of celiac disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. Treatment involves following a strict gluten-free diet for life.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce of insulin in the pancreas. This results in elevated blood sugar levels, which can cause serious long-term complications. People with type 1 diabetes require insulin injections to control their blood glucose levels and prevent complications.
Multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the nervous system. central, causing damage to myelin, the protective layer that covers nerve fibers. This interferes with the transmission of messages between the brain and the rest of the body, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, balance and coordination problems, and cognitive problems. Although there is no cure, there are treatments that can help control the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing red, scaly, itchy patches to form. In some cases, psoriasis can also affect the joints, leading to a condition known as psoriatic arthritis. Treatment of psoriasis may involve topical, oral, and injectable medications, as well as light therapies.
These are just a few examples of the many autoimmune diseases that exist. Each of them presents unique challenges in terms of diagnosis and treatment, and it is essential that patients receive multidisciplinary management by medical specialists to control symptoms and improve their quality of life.