Tuesday 26 December 2017

Facts Regarding Auto Immune Diseases

By Virginia Schmidt


The body of human beings runs on some of the most comprehensive systems. Specialization is necessary to allow a medical expert concentrate on certain parts of the human body. When specializing in specific areas a medical expert gains deeper understanding of illnesses and conditions associated with that part. Auto immune diseases are caused by the body mistaking certain parts for foreign cells thereby launching attacks against them.

The body is usually able to distinguish foreign cells from body cells. When functioning properly it selectively attacks foreign cells while sparing body cells. Joints and the skin are mistaken for foreign cells by the immune system of people with autoimmune diseases. When this happens antibodies are secreted and directed toward the target parts. The result is that healthy cells end up being destroyed in those organs.

Some types of these diseases attack the entire body while some target specific organs. For instance Lupus affects the entire body while Type 1 Diabetes specifically targets the pancreas. The cause of these illnesses is not known although they tend to run in families. It is also speculated that exposure to certain chemicals, infections, and diets might trigger or contribute to the condition.

The susceptibility level of women is also higher compared to men according to research. Women in childbearing age are more affected. Most cases are diagnosed at this stage in life. Some races are also more affected compared to others. Many people still live without developing the conditions even if they run in the family. However, their chances of developing the disease are much higher than normal people.

A diet with high fat and sugar is also thought to be a contributing factor. Eating highly processed foods could also be a causative factor since it is closely linked to inflammation. Scientists have devised several theories to try and explain the root cause of the illnesses. One of the theories is known as hygiene hypothesis.

What the hygiene theory proses is fascinating. It suggests that steps made in the field of medicine which saw introduction of many antiseptic and vaccines could be blamed for these diseases. The theory speculates that preventative techniques currently adopted exposes children to little germs. The little exposure becomes the source of the problem. This is because it raises the sensitivity level of immune system making it attack the body instead of foreign substances.

Statistics indicate that there are over 80 varying types of illnesses in which the body attacks itself. These include multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriatic arthritis, and celiac disease. Others include vasculitis and rheumatoid arthritis. Note that similar symptoms may be manifested for a wide range of diseases.

Always watch out for muscle aches, swelling, and fatigue because they might be signs of autoimmune illness. Suffering can be avoided if a person is given timely necessary treatment. The illnesses have no cure. All that professionals do is ensuring they are effectively managed or controlled. It is best to prevent than treat. Everyone needs ensure they are on healthy diet and that they exercise regularly.




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