Understanding Autoimmune Disease: When the Body Turns on Itself

Autoimmune diseases affect an estimated 50 million people in the United States alone—yet they are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or dismissed altogether. If you or someone you love has been told “it’s all in your head” while struggling with unexplained fatigue, pain, or inflammation, you’re not alone.

Here I will break down what autoimmune diseases are, explore their causes and symptoms, and offer helpful tips for living well with these chronic conditions.

What Is an Autoimmune Disease?

An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system, which normally protects the body against infections and illness, mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. Instead of defending you, it turns inward—damaging organs, joints, skin, or other body systems.

There are over 100 known autoimmune diseases, including:

• Lupus

• Alopecia areata

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

• Crohn's disease

• Type 1 diabetes

• Psoriasis

• Celiac disease

• Sjogren’s syndrome

  
  

Some autoimmune diseases affect one organ (like the thyroid), while others impact multiple systems throughout the body.

Some Common Symptoms to Watch For

Because autoimmune diseases vary widely, symptoms can look different for each person. However, many may share common warning signs:

• Chronic fatigue

• Joint pain or swelling

• Muscle aches

• Skin rashes

• Low-grade fever

• Digestive issues (bloating, constipation, or diarrhea)

• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

• Hair loss

• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet

• Swollen glands

  
  

Autoimmune conditions often flare—meaning symptoms worsen during periods of inflammation and then improve during remission.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of autoimmune diseases is still not fully understood. However, researchers believe that a combination of genetics, environment, and lifestyle play a role. Some contributing factors may include:

• Family history of autoimmune disease

• Infections that trigger immune responses

• High stress levels

• Environmental toxins

• Diet and gut health imbalances

• Hormonal changes

  
  

Women, especially women of color, are disproportionately affected by autoimmune conditions, with nearly 80% of cases occurring in women.

Getting a Diagnosis

Autoimmune diseases can be tricky to diagnose. There is no single test that confirms every condition. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Blood tests

• Imaging (like MRIs or X-rays)

• Symptom tracking over time

• Specialist referrals (rheumatologist, endocrinologist, neurologists etc.)

  
  

If you feel dismissed by a healthcare provider, advocate for yourself. (Your life, your body so speak up!) Keep a symptom journal with dates and times, get second opinions, and connect with others for support. In my experience, support groups are proven to be very helpful.

Living Well with Autoimmune Disease

While there is no universal cure for autoimmune disease, many people live full, empowered lives by managing symptoms and reducing inflammation.

Here are some strategies:

🥗 Nourish Your Body

• Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet: rich in leafy greens, omega-3s, and berries

• Limit sugar, gluten, and processed foods

• Consider food sensitivity testing

  
  

😴 Rest

• Prioritize sleep to support healing and reduce flares

• Sleep at least 7–9 hours nightly

  
  

🧘🏾‍♀️ Exercise and Stress Relief

• Gentle movement such as walking, stretching, or yoga can support mobility and reduce stress.

• Meditation, journaling, deep breathing and mindfulness can help regulate immune function.

• Say no without guilt—protect your energy and peace

  
  

🩺Medical Care

• Work with a knowledgeable doctor or specialist to monitor symptoms and treatments.

  
  

💊 Use Medication Wisely

• Work with your doctor to find the right meds, including biologics or immunosuppressants if needed

• Track side effects and stay current with labs

  
  

🌿 Herbal or Holistic Medicine

• Research holistic practitioners

• Work with practitioner to curate a plan action

• Explore supportive options like healing herbs, acupuncture, lymphatic massage or drainage or calming teas (always consult a professional before adding anything new especially if you are taking prescription medication as well)

  
  

🧑🏽‍🤝‍🧑🏽 Build Your Support Team

• Connect with others who understand through support groups or online communities.

• Partner with a functional medicine practitioner or dietitian

• Don’t isolate—your story matters and deserves to be heard

  
  

Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone

Living with an autoimmune disease can be overwhelming, frustrating, exhausting, and sometimes invisible to those around you. But knowledge is power. With the right combination of treatment, self-care and lifestyle adjustments, it is possible to thrive.  Awareness, advocacy, and compassionate support are key to navigating an autoimmune journey. The more you understand your body’s signals, the more you can take control of your health and healing. If you suspect you may have an autoimmune condition, consult with a healthcare professional to begin the path toward clarity and healing.

Remember: You are not your diagnosis. You are still whole, still worthy, and still capable of joy and purpose.

Have you or a loved one experienced autoimmune challenges? Share your story or tips in the comments—your voice could be the encouragement someone else needs.