Orbai explains several theories researchers have about what might cause autoimmune disease, including infection, tissue damage and genetics. One theory is that higher levels of hormones in women, especially during the childbearing years, could make women more susceptible to autoimmune diseases. However, Orbai notes that this idea has not yet been proven — there are many factors that affect autoimmunity, both genetic and environmental.
Researchers cannot definitively explain why women develop these diseases more than men do. Researchers have several ideas about why this happens. When the body senses danger from a virus or infection, the immune system kicks into gear and attacks it. This is called an immune response. Sometimes, healthy cells and tissues are caught up in this response, resulting in autoimmune disease. Many scientists believe this is what causes rheumatoid arthritis, a type of autoimmune disease that attacks the joints.
We have more in-depth information on lupus here. Psoriatic Arthritis — People with the skin condition psoriasis sometimes develop arthritis as well, but in certain cases the joint inflammation can occur before the skin rash. The main symptoms of psoriasis are joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
The condition can affect any part of the body, such as the fingertips and spine, and range from mild to severe. We have more in-depth information on psoriatic arthritis here.
With ulcerative colitis, the colon or large intestine are affected. We have more in-depth information on inflammatory bowel arthritis here.
Are you experiencing symptoms or have already been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease? If so, contact Dr.
Next, read more about 6 Common Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Struggles to get to the clinic? Trying to reduce your exposure to COVID, as well as other contagious illnesses, and still need to see your doctor? Telehealth is safe and easy — receive quality care from anywhere. Beverly Hills rheumatologist Dr. Susan Baker is highly skilled at providing patients the close attention and care they need to help overcome rheumatoid arthritis as much as possible.
She takes a comprehensive approach to disease management and will work This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:. Most cases of Addison's disease are caused by an autoimmune response that attacks and damages the adrenal glands over time. Myalgic encephalomyelitis, commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome, can affect people of any age, including children. Type 1 diabetes can affect anyone of any age, but is more common in people under 30 years.
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The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Skip to main content. Immune system. Home Immune system. Autoimmune disorders. Actions for this page Listen Print.
Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page. Types of autoimmune disorders Immune system malfunction Risk factors for autoimmune disorders Diagnosis of autoimmune disorders Treatment for autoimmune disorders Where to get help. Types of autoimmune disorders Autoimmune disorders can affect nearly every organ and system of the body.
Some autoimmune disorders include: Diabetes Type I — affects the pancreas. Symptoms include thirst, frequent urination, weight loss and an increased susceptibility to infection. Graves' disease — affects the thyroid gland.
Symptoms include weight loss, elevated heart rate, anxiety and diarrhoea. Inflammatory bowel disease — includes ulcerative colitis and possibly, Crohn's disease. Symptoms include diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
Multiple sclerosis — affects the nervous system.
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