When your immune system, which is supposed to protect you from harmful bacteria and viruses, mistakenly targets your own healthy cells, an autoimmune disorder develops. This can affect almost any organ or tissue, from your skin and joints to your nerves or digestive system. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the U.S. alone, more than 50 million people are affected by an autoimmune condition. While this number may sound astounding, it is essential to understand that with the right care plan, most autoimmune diseases are manageable. Many people continue to live active, fulfilling lives for years after their diagnosis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This article will walk you through exactly what autoimmune diseases are, what causes them, the common signs to watch for, how they are diagnosed and who is at risk of autoimmunity. We\u2019ll also discuss some of the most common chronic illnesses as well as day-to-day coping tips. <\/p>\n\n\n
An autoimmune disease is a condition where your immune system, which normally protects you from harmful bacteria and viruses, mistakenly targets your own healthy cells. This means the body\u2019s defense system turns against itself, causing inflammation and damage to various organs or tissues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Usually, immune cells (or regulatory T and B cells) know how to tell the difference between \u201cself\u201d (body\u2019s own cells) and \u201cforeign\u201d (outside cells from bacteria, viruses or infections). In an autoimmune condition, this recognition system breaks down. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, instead of attacking germs, the immune system releases proteins called autoantibodies that damage its own tissues and organs. As a result, nearly any body system (skin, joints, nerves, muscles, organs) can be affected. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are more than 100 known autoimmune diseases, but some types are far more common than others, such as Lupus, Thyroid Disorders or Type 1 Diabetes. Our autoimmune disease list<\/a> highlights 10 conditions that most frequently affect people worldwide. Each disease has distinct causes, symptoms, and treatment options, ranging from medication and lifestyle changes to immune-modulating therapies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n