1. Learn the Nature of Autoimmune Disorders
Many diseases and disorders are actually autoimmune disorders, which means that the immune system does not recognize its own tissues or cells and begins to attack itself. Some autoimmune diseases are general, meaning that numerous tissues are affected, and others are more specific, which means that the immune system is targeting one organ. No one knows exactly why some people develop autoimmune disorders, but some experts believe it's a combination of genetics, environmental issues and hormones. Some autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, Grave's diseases, pernicious anemia and multiple sclerosis. Because autoimmune disorders are so diverse, they are responsible for many different symptoms. For example, an autoimmune disease like ulcerative colitis affects the digestive system, while a disease like multiple sclerosis affects coordination and muscle control.
2. Get Tested
Only a physician can diagnose an autoimmune disorder, so make an appointment if you suspect you have the condition. Depending on the disorder, the doctor may administer blood tests, electromylograms (which measure muscle function), MRIs of the brain and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Antibody testing measures antibody levels in the blood. Usually, the physician will draw blood and reintroduce it into the patient's tissues to see if it causes an autoimmune reaction. If a person does not have an autoimmune disease, there should be no reaction.
3. Pay Attention to Your Overall Health
You can't prevent an autoimmune disorder, but there are things that you can do if you have one. Most initial treatments focus on relieving the symptoms of the disease. For example, if someone develops type 1 diabetes, antibodies have destroyed the beta cells in the pancreas, which produce insulin necessary to live. The patient must inject insulin several times a day to replace what the body cannot produce. In addition to treating the symptoms, it's also important for anyone diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder to stay maintain optimum healthy. This includes eating right, exercising and following your doctor's recommendations for vaccinations. By paying attention to your overall health, you will be better able to cope with the stresses of the disorder.
