## What is an Autoimmune Disease? Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system begins attacking the body's own cells and tissues. This can happen for various reasons. Triggers for immune system dysfunction include poor environmental conditions, genetic predisposition, vitamin deficiencies (especially vitamin D), poor diet, chronic stress, infections with certain viruses, and even excessive hygiene. > Living in overly sterile conditions reduces exposure to microorganisms, which can lead to "malfunctions" in the immune system. ## From Fatigue to Inflammation Despite the wide range of autoimmune diseases, many of them share similar symptoms: - Chronic fatigue: A persistent feeling of exhaustion unrelated to physical exertion - Fever: Periodic spikes in temperature without an obvious cause - Joint and muscle pain: Often accompanied by inflammation and swelling - Skin problems: Rashes, pigmentation changes, dryness, or peeling - Hair loss: Can be diffuse or patchy - Unexplained weight loss or gain: Disruptions in metabolism - Digestive issues: Bloating, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain - Frequent infections: Weakened immunity due to chronic inflammation ## Breaking It Down by Systems Certain symptoms are more specific to particular diseases and affect different systems in the body. __Musculoskeletal System__ - Morning stiffness in joints (rheumatoid arthritis) - Back pain that worsens during rest (ankylosing spondylitis) - Muscle pain and weakness (polymyositis, dermatomyositis) __Skin and Mucous Membranes__ - Butterfly-shaped red rash on the face (systemic lupus erythematosus) - White patches on the skin (vitiligo) - Blisters and erosions on mucous membranes (pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid) __Gastrointestinal Tract__ - Chronic diarrhea or constipation (Crohn's disease, celiac disease) - Abdominal pain and bloating (autoimmune gastritis, celiac disease) __Nervous System__ - Numbness, tingling, and weakness in the limbs (multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome) - Headaches, depression, memory impairment (lupus, vasculitis) ## Don't Wait Too Long If you regularly experience multiple symptoms from this list—especially in combination with unexplained fatigue—it's essential to see a doctor. A healthcare professional will analyze your symptoms, order tests for specific autoantibodies, conduct a general blood test, and possibly order additional diagnostic tests to determine an accurate diagnosis. Although autoimmune diseases are considered incurable, they can be effectively managed with proper and timely treatment. The right therapy can help reduce symptom severity and slow disease progression. > Women are four times more likely to suffer from autoimmune diseases than men.