What Are Autoimmune Diseases?
The immune system normally identifies harmful pathogens such as viruses and bacteria and produces antibodies to eliminate them. In autoimmune disease, this process becomes disrupted. Instead of distinguishing between foreign invaders and the body’s own cells, the immune system reacts against healthy tissue.
This immune activity causes inflammation in the affected areas. The pattern of inflammation depends on the specific condition. Some autoimmune diseases primarily affect joints or connective tissue, while others involve organs or the nervous system.
Examples of autoimmune conditions include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Type 1 diabetes
- Psoriasis
- Coeliac disease
Common Symptoms of Autoimmune Conditions
Symptoms vary depending on which tissues are affected. Many people notice that symptoms develop gradually and may fluctuate over time.
Commonly reported symptoms include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Swelling or inflammation
- Digestive discomfort
- Skin rashes or irritation
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Sensitivity to temperature or environmental changes
Because symptoms can overlap with other health issues, diagnosis sometimes requires careful assessment and medical testing.
Factors That May Contribute to Autoimmune Conditions
Researchers believe that autoimmune diseases develop through a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental influences. No single factor explains every case, and the interaction between different influences can be complex.
Genetic predisposition
However, genetic predisposition alone rarely explains the full picture. Many people who carry these genes never develop autoimmune disease.
Infections
For example, certain viral infections have been associated with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and lupus.
Hormonal influences
Although the exact mechanisms remain under investigation, hormonal factors may partly explain why some autoimmune diseases occur more frequently during reproductive years.
Environmental influences
- Cigarette smoke
- Environmental pollutants
- Certain chemicals and toxins
- Dietary factors
- Prolonged psychological stress
These influences may not directly cause autoimmune disease but may contribute to immune imbalance in individuals who are already susceptible.
The Role of the Gut Microbiome
The digestive system contains trillions of microorganisms that collectively form the gut microbiome. These bacteria help regulate immune function, digestion, and metabolic activity.
Scientists are increasingly interested in how the microbiome interacts with the immune system. An imbalance in gut bacteria, sometimes described as dysbiosis, has been associated with several autoimmune conditions.
The gut lining also acts as a barrier between the digestive tract and the bloodstream. When this barrier becomes disrupted, substances that would normally remain in the digestive system may enter circulation and contribute to immune activation.
Research into the gut microbiome is ongoing, and scientists continue to explore how these interactions may influence autoimmune diseases.
The Impact of Autoimmune Conditions
Autoimmune diseases can affect many aspects of daily life. The degree of impact varies depending on the condition, the organs involved, and the severity of inflammation.
Chronic inflammation
Fatigue and reduced energy
Effects on organs and tissues
Emotional and psychological effects
Recognising the emotional impact of chronic illness is an important part of supporting overall wellbeing.
What a Consultation Involves at Foundation For Life Healthcare
People who are experiencing complex or long-standing health concerns sometimes seek a broader discussion about their wellbeing.
At Foundation For Life Healthcare, new patients begin with a conversation about their health history and the challenges they are facing. This discussion may include lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress levels, physical activity, and previous medical experiences.
Chiropractic care is commonly associated with helping low back pain, neck pain, headaches, and sciatica. If symptoms suggest the need for medical investigation or specialist care, appropriate referral or medical advice will be recommended.
The aim of the consultation process is to understand each individual’s circumstances and to determine whether the clinic’s approach is appropriate.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you experience persistent symptoms that may suggest an autoimmune condition, it is important to seek medical guidance. A GP can arrange appropriate tests and referrals to specialists when necessary.
Seek prompt medical attention if you experience:
- Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
- Unexplained weight loss or persistent fever
- Neurological symptoms such as weakness or numbness
- Significant joint swelling or pain
- Symptoms affecting breathing or heart function
If you are unsure what to do next, you can contact NHS 111 or speak with your GP.
Frequently Asked Questions About Autoimmune Conditions
Are autoimmune diseases common?
Can autoimmune diseases affect more than one organ?
Why are autoimmune conditions more common in women?
Do symptoms stay the same over time?
Can lifestyle factors influence symptoms?
What Are Autoimmune Diseases?
Autoimmune diseases cover a broad spectrum of conditions, all characterised by the immune system’s abnormal attack on the body’s tissues. There are more than 80 known autoimmune disorders, and some of the most common include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and psoriasis. The specific symptoms vary depending on which part of the body is being affected, but common symptoms include chronic fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, swelling, fever, and, in severe cases, organ damage.
The immune system normally works by recognising harmful pathogens such as viruses and bacteria and producing antibodies to neutralise them. However, in autoimmune diseases, the immune system loses this ability to distinguish between “self” and “non-self” and starts to attack healthy tissue. This immune response is often triggered by a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences.
The Underlying Triggers of Autoimmune Conditions
Whilst research has not fully explained the complex underlying mechanisms involved in the development of auto-immune diseases, research is pointing towards several triggering causes which are a complex interaction between underlying genetics and environmental triggers:
Genetic Factors
Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in autoimmune diseases. Certain genes, particularly those involved in immune system regulation, can increase the likelihood of developing an autoimmune condition. For example, certain variations in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes have been associated with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and lupus. These genes are responsible for helping the immune system recognise foreign invaders.
If a person inherits specific genetic markers from their parents, they may be more likely to develop an autoimmune disease. However, genetics alone typically do not explain why autoimmune diseases develop. It is the interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental triggers that seems to lead to the onset of disease.
Infections
Infections are among the most well-documented environmental triggers for autoimmune diseases. Some infections can “mislead” the immune system into attacking the body’s own tissues, a phenomenon called “molecular mimicry”. This occurs when a pathogen, such as a virus or bacteria, has molecules on its surface that resemble those found in the body. The immune system, upon attacking the pathogen, may also attack the body’s own tissues that share similar molecular structures.
For example, a bacterial infection known as streptococcus can trigger an autoimmune response that leads to rheumatic fever, which can damage the heart valves. Similarly, some viral infections, like Epstein-Barr virus (the virus that causes mononucleosis), have been linked to conditions such as multiple sclerosis and lupus.
Hormonal Factors
Another theory gaining traction is that CFS involves abnormalities in the brain and nervous system, particularly in how the body perceives and processes fatigue. Dysregulation in the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which controls involuntary body functions such as heart rate and blood pressure, may be a key factor in CFS. Dysfunction in the ANS could contribute to the fluctuating energy levels and cognitive dysfunction seen in CFS patients.
Research from UK-based studies has shown that individuals with CFS often report symptoms consistent with dysautonomia, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and an inability to regulate body temperature. The autonomic nervous system may also play a role in the “brain fog” commonly experienced in CFS, which includes symptoms like poor concentration, memory problems, and confusion.
Environmental Factors
Several environmental factors can contribute to the onset of autoimmune diseases. These include chemicals, pollutants, diet, and stress. For example, cigarette smoke is a well-established trigger for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Similarly, exposure to certain chemicals, including pesticides, industrial solvents, and heavy metals, has been linked to autoimmune disorders.
Dietary factors may also play a role. For instance, gluten, a protein found in wheat, has been identified as a trigger for celiac disease, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine in response to gluten.
Chronic stress and trauma are environmental factors that can trigger autoimmune diseases. Stress activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, which includes the release of cortisol, a hormone that helps manage stress. However, prolonged stress can lead to sustained high levels of cortisol, which may disrupt immune system function and contribute to inflammation, potentially triggering autoimmune responses.
Gut Health and the Microbiome
The gut microbiome, the collection of bacteria and microorganisms that live in the intestines, plays an important role in regulating immune function. An imbalance in the gut microbiome, known as dysbiosis, has been linked to several autoimmune diseases. Research suggests that the gut microbiome helps train the immune system to distinguish between harmful pathogens and the body’s own tissues. An imbalance in gut bacteria could lead to an overactive immune response, potentially contributing to conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
The gut also acts as a barrier to harmful substances. If the gut lining becomes leaky—a condition known as intestinal permeability —it can allow toxins, undigested food particles, and bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This can trigger inflammation throughout the body and may increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
The Impact of Autoimmune Conditions
The impact of autoimmune diseases can be profound, both physically and emotionally. These conditions can cause significant damage to the body and affect various organs, leading to long-term health problems. Some of the major impacts are:
Chronic Inflammation and Tissue Damage
One of the hallmarks of autoimmune diseases is chronic inflammation. The immune system’s mistaken attacks on healthy tissue result in swelling, pain, and damage. Over time, this inflammation can lead to long-term issues, including scarring of tissues and loss of function in affected organs.
For example, in rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and eventually joint deformities. Similarly, in lupus, the immune system may attack the skin, kidneys, and heart, leading to permanent damage if not controlled.
Fatigue and Reduced Quality of Life
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of autoimmune diseases. Chronic inflammation and immune system dysregulation can make individuals feel constantly tired, even after adequate rest. This fatigue can be debilitating, affecting a person’s ability to work, engage in social activities, or take care of daily tasks.
In addition, the pain and discomfort caused by many autoimmune conditions, such as arthritis or multiple sclerosis, can reduce a person’s ability to participate in everyday life, leading to isolation and emotional distress.
Organ Damage
Autoimmune diseases can damage vital organs, including the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and digestive system. For instance, in autoimmune hepatitis, the immune system attacks the liver, leading to inflammation, scarring, and potentially liver failure if left untreated. Similarly, in type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to problems with blood sugar regulation.
Increased Risk of Infections
Because the immune system is compromised in autoimmune conditions, individuals may be more susceptible to infections. Chronic inflammation can weaken the body’s defences, making it harder to fight off infections, and some medications used to manage autoimmune diseases (such as immunosuppressants) can further increase the risk of infection.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Living with an autoimmune disease can take an emotional toll. The chronic pain, fatigue, and unpredictability of symptoms can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, the impact on physical appearance—such as rashes, hair loss, or joint deformities—can affect self-esteem and body image.
Living with auto-immune conditions can be extremely challenging and lonely, especially for those who are unsure where to turn for support. If you, or someone close to you, would like to discuss the health challenges you are experiencing please get in touch here (link to contact page).
References
References:
- James, W., & Hamilton, R. (2019). Autoimmune Diseases and Their Triggers. The Lancet. Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/
- Shoenfeld, Y., et al. (2012). Autoimmune Diseases: Triggers and Environmental Factors. Journal of Autoimmunity, 39 (3), 200-206.
- Liao, B., et al. (2021). Genetic Factors in Autoimmune Diseases. Frontiers in Immunology. Retrieved from https://www.frontiersin.org/
