Autoimmune diseases occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues instead of protecting them. This immune system attack leads to chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and varied symptoms depending on which organ or system is affected. Depending on this, they are classified into organ-specific or systemic (affecting multiple organs/systems) categories.
There are more than 100 known autoimmune diseases, but some types are far more common than others. Our autoimmune disease list highlights 10 conditions that most frequently affect people worldwide. Each disease has distinct causes and treatment options ranging from organ-specific issues to whole-body inflammation. Thus, a specialist, such as a Rheumatologist or Endocrinologist, will diagnose and develop your treatment and monitoring plan.
Let’s examine the most common conditions, their effects on the body, and the treatment options that can help you manage their symptoms for long-term health and quality of life.
1. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or Lupus)
Lupus is one of the most complex systemic autoimmune diseases because it can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, and even the heart. It often flares up and subsides, characterized by a butterfly rash that spreads across the cheeks and nose.
It affects 1.5 million Americans and more than 5 million people worldwide. The exact cause of Lupus isn’t fully understood, but a mix of genetics, hormones, and environmental triggers (infections, sunlight, or stress) can bring on flare-ups.
Although there is no cure, Lupus can be diagnosed, controlled and managed as follows:
- Diagnosis: ANA (Anti-Nuclear Antibodies), Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), and kidney function tests.
- Treatment: Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), antimalarials like Hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids and immunosuppressants to calm the immune system.
- Lifestyle tips: Use sunscreen, manage stress, and follow an anti-inflammatory diet to help reduce the frequency of flare-ups.
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2. Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
These conditions feature on the most common autoimmune diseases list globally. The thyroid (small gland at the base of the neck) regulates energy and metabolism. When your immune system interferes with this process, it can cause a hormonal imbalance.
When the thyroid becomes overactive, causing Hyperthyroidism, it is referred to as Graves’ disease. It causes symptoms like weight loss, rapid heartbeat, irritability, heat intolerance, and bulging eyes. When the gland does the opposite, it leads to Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis or Hypothyroidism. This can cause fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, and dry skin.
Both autoimmune thyroid disorders have a genetic predisposition as they are more common in women and often run in families.
- Diagnosis: Blood tests for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and thyroid antibodies.
- Treatment: Antithyroid medications, beta-blockers, or radioactive iodine therapy for Graves’ and daily thyroid hormone replacement (Levothyroxine) for Hashimoto’s.
- Lifestyle tips: Eat foods rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc, while limiting smoking and caffeine, to help stabilize thyroid function.
3. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Type 1 Diabetes is an organ-specific autoimmune condition that affects insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This leads to high glucose levels that can damage organs over time.
Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, which develops gradually and is often linked with lifestyle factors, Type 1 Diabetes usually appears suddenly. Unique warning signs of this common autoimmune disorder include excessive thirst, frequent urination, a fruity-smelling breath and unexplained weight loss.
- Diagnosis: Fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and C-peptide tests.
- Treatment: Daily insulin injections or pump therapy, along with regular glucose monitoring. Ongoing research into immunotherapy aims to protect remaining pancreatic cells and delay disease progression.
- Lifestyle tip: Exercise regularly, eat fiber-rich foods, and manage stress to stabilize blood sugar levels. You can also try some Herbal Remedies for Diabetes Mellitus.
4. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Both Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) are systemic autoimmune disorders in which the immune system targets the joints, causing swelling, pain, and stiffness. RA usually begins in the small joints of your hands and feet. In contrast, PsA presents with unique symptoms, such as nail changes and swelling of entire fingers or toes, known as sausage digits.
- Diagnostic tests: Blood tests for Rheumatoid factor (RF), ESR or C-reactive protein to measure inflammation.
- Treatment: Pain relief OTCs, Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or biologics to slow the immune response and prevent damage.
- Lifestyle tips: Do gentle exercises (swimming or yoga), eat a diet rich in omega-3s and maintain a healthy weight to support joint flexibility and reduce inflammation.
5. Sjögren’s Syndrome
Sjögren’s Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily targets your moisture-producing glands (tear and salivary glands), often accompanying Rheumatoid Arthritis or Lupus. This leads to persistent dryness in the eyes and mouth, making everyday activities such as eating, speaking, or wearing contact lenses uncomfortable.
Around 3.5 million Americans are estimated to have Sjögren’s Syndrome. It often appears more in women and people over the age of 40. Although its cause is not fully understood, its treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving comfort.
- Diagnostic tests: Blood tests for antibodies, as well as Schirmer’s test to measure tear production.
- Treatment: Artificial tears or saliva substitutes, prescription medications such as Pilocarpine or Cevimeline, and immunosuppressive therapy in severe cases.
- Lifestyle tips: Stay hydrated, use a humidifier, limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, and incorporate omega-3 fatty acids to help alleviate dryness.
6. Neurological autoimmune diseases
Neurological autoimmune diseases are types of disorders that affect your muscles and nerves. The most commonly reported issues are Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Myasthenia Gravis (MG).
MS happens when the immune system disrupts communication between the brain and body. This leads to muscle weakness, vision problems, and balance difficulties. MS is known for its unpredictability, with periods of relapse and remission making the disease challenging both physically and emotionally.
MG is a less common condition that results in muscle weakness that worsens with physical activity. Common signs include drooping eyelids, difficulty swallowing, and sudden fatigue after even mild exertion.
- Diagnosis: Antibody tests, nerve conduction test and MRI.
- Treatment: MS patients receive immunomodulatory drugs or corticosteroids during relapses, while MG management includes immunosuppressants or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy.
- Lifestyle tips: Get adequate rest, maintain healthy Vitamin D levels and avoid heat exposure. Moreover, practice light stretching and balance exercises.
7. Skin-related autoimmune diseases
Psoriasis, Vitiligo, Dermatomyositis, and Scleroderma are the most common autoimmune diseases that can affect the skin or connective tissue.
Psoriasis causes thick, scaly patches that can be itchy or painful. On the other hand, Dermatomyositis causes a distinctive reddish or violet rash on your face or knuckles, along with muscle weakness.
Vitiligo causes the immune system to destroy pigment-producing cells in your skin. This results in light or white patches that often spread over time. Scleroderma causes thickening and tightening of the skin, which may be localized to patches or widespread.
- Diagnosis: Physical exam for rash patterns, blood tests for autoantibodies and skin biopsy to confirm.
- Treatment: Topical creams, phototherapy (light therapy), antioxidant-rich supplements and oral medications to control immune activity and reduce flare intensity.
- Lifestyle tip: Avoid harsh soaps, stay moisturized, protect against sun damage and manage stress to reduce flare-ups.
8. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease, together, are known as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), IBD affects about 2.4 to 3.1 million people in the United States alone.
Crohn’s disease can occur anywhere along your digestive tract; however, it affects the small intestine most often. It may cause deep ulcers, strictures, or fistulas that connect parts of the bowel. On the other hand, Ulcerative Colitis affects only the rectum and colon, but it may increase your risk of Colorectal Cancer over time.
Most common signs of both conditions include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, and unintended weight loss.
- Diagnosis: Blood work for anemia and infection screening, stool tests and colonoscopy with biopsy.
- Treatment: Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or newer biologics to manage inflammation.
- Lifestyle tips: Keeping a food diary helps you identify and avoid triggers. Follow a low-FODMAP diet or an anti-inflammatory diet after discussing with your dietician. Additionally, stay hydrated to help prevent flares.
9. Celiac Disease and Autoimmune Hepatitis
Celiac Disease is a digestive autoimmune condition wherein eating gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye) triggers an attack on the small intestine. Over time, this damages the intestinal lining, reducing your body’s ability to absorb nutrients. You may notice bloating, diarrhea, or weight loss, or experience subtle symptoms like fatigue or Anemia.
Autoimmune Hepatitis is an autoimmune liver disease characterized by symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin), or extreme fatigue. If left untreated, it can progress to Cirrhosis or liver failure.
- Diagnosis: Blood test for anti-smooth muscle antibodies and biopsy as needed.
- Treatment: Options to manage include immunosuppressive medications, such as corticosteroids or Azathioprine, to protect liver function.
- Lifestyle tips: Eat foods rich in antioxidants, follow a strict gluten-free diet, limit alcohol consumption, and regularly monitor your liver enzymes.
10. Vasculitis and Hemolytic Anemia
While blood and vessel disorders can sound intimidating, ongoing autoimmune disease treatment and monitoring with a hematologist can restore your quality of life. The list of the most common blood and vessel autoimmune diseases includes Vasculitis and Hemolytic Anemia.
Vasculitis refers to a group of conditions in which your immune system attacks the walls of blood vessels, causing them to become inflamed and narrowed. This reduces blood flow and can damage organs. Symptoms vary but may include skin rashes, nerve pain, fevers, or chronic kidney inflammation.
In Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia, your immune system destroys red blood cells more rapidly than your body can replace them. Thus, it can lead to significant fatigue, paleness, shortness of breath, and Jaundice.
- Diagnostic tests: Blood tests for inflammation markers, tissue biopsy or angiography to detect vessel damage.
- Treatment: Corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapy to calm immune overactivity.
- Lifestyle tip: Regularly follow up with a hematologist and maintain a healthy diet for optimal recovery.
Apart from those listed above, over 100 autoimmune conditions have been identified to date. Additionally, research is underway on their causes, diagnosis and treatment.
Can autoimmune disease be cured?
No, currently, there is no cure for autoimmune diseases, but most can be controlled effectively with lifestyle changes, medications, and regular follow-ups. The goal of autoimmune disease treatment is to reduce inflammation, prevent organ damage, and maintain long-term remission.
You need to remember that coping with autoimmunity is about finding routines and support systems that work for you or your loved one to live a fulfilling life despite your condition.
Conclusion
Autoimmune diseases like Lupus or RA may be complex and lifelong, but they are manageable with awareness, consistency, and care. Knowing the type of autoimmune disorder you have through tests, like Type 1 Diabetes and which organ/s it affects (for example, the Pancreas) is the first step toward effective control.
Early diagnosis, adherence to medication (especially immunosuppressants), and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce flares. Moreover, your dietician can help you with the most suitable diet to avoid flares and promote remission, as well as exercises that fit your overall health and routine.
Living with an autoimmune condition, be it skin-related or neurological, means listening to your body. So, make sure to track your symptoms, avoid all triggers that cause flare-ups, schedule regular check-ups and discuss new therapies with your doctor. Don’t underestimate the power of emotional wellness either. Join support groups and surround yourself with people who understand and encourage your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lady Gaga’s autoimmune disease?
Lady Gaga’s disease is fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition sometimes linked to autoimmune-like symptoms. Even though Fibromyalgia is not classified as an autoimmune disease, it shares similarities such as fatigue, muscle pain, and sensitivity to stress or weather changes.
Do autoimmune diseases cause weight gain?
Yes, certain autoimmune diseases can cause weight gain. Conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis slow down metabolism, while others cause fluid retention. Additionally, medications such as corticosteroids (used to control immune response) can increase appetite or alter fat distribution to cause unwanted weight changes.
What deficiency causes autoimmune diseases?
While no single deficiency causes autoimmune disease, low levels of Vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and selenium are linked to a higher risk of immune dysregulation. These play a crucial role in balancing immune response, lowering inflammation and preventing flare-ups.
What drugs trigger autoimmune disease?
Some medications, like Interferons or Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) inhibitors, can trigger drug-induced autoimmune reactions. Additionally, Hydralazine, Procainamide, and Isoniazid (Isokin) may cause Lupus-like symptoms. These effects usually reverse once the medication is stopped, provided it is done under medical supervision.
Can a CT scan detect autoimmune disease?
No, a CT scan alone cannot diagnose autoimmune diseases, but it can help detect inflammation, tissue damage, or organ enlargement. Your doctor will use CT or MRI scans, along with blood tests for autoantibodies and inflammatory markers, to evaluate disease activity in organs such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys.
What is the hardest autoimmune disease to diagnose?
Lupus or Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is often considered one of the hardest autoimmune diseases to diagnose because its symptoms, like fatigue, joint pain, rashes, and organ inflammation, overlap with several other conditions. Blood tests, including Anti-Nuclear Antibodies, and careful clinical evaluation over time, are usually needed for confirmation.
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