One of the most powerful defense mechanisms of the body is the immune system. It is effective against viruses, bacteria and fungi, it also protects us against all other threats.
A healthy immune system is capable of discerning between good and bad. However, this system can malfunction at times. If the immune cells start to attack healthy cells, tissues, or organs, it can lead to an autoimmune disease.
Our Allergy & Immunology services at Heart and Health Medical offer diagnostic assistance to help patients better understand what is happening in their health when it includes immune-related issues that need to be reviewed and controlled.
Let’s learn about how immune system problems lead to autoimmune disease.
What Is the Immune System?
Your immune system is a natural defense system composed of organs, cells and proteins. They all collaborate to keep you safe every single day. White blood cells travel through your blood looking for invaders like bacteria and viruses.
If they see it as a hazard, they send out signals to produce antibodies. Antibodies are special proteins that bind to germs and eliminate them.
A functioning body’s immune system recognizes the difference between cells and invaders. It leaves nothing on your skin, joints, muscles and organs. It only combats what isn’t supposed to be in your body. This safety system allows you to stay active, fit and better able to enjoy life daily.
What Is an Autoimmune Disease?
An autoimmune disease happens when the immune system makes a mistake. Instead of only fighting germs, it starts to react against healthy parts of the body. This can cause swelling, pain, tiredness, skin changes, or other problems, depending on the area affected.
Each condition is different, but the main problem is an immune response directed at the body.
How Do Immune System Problems Cause Autoimmune Disease?
Autoimmune disease does not usually develop from one simple cause. Instead, several factors may work together.
One important problem is a loss of immune tolerance. Immune tolerance is the body’s ability to avoid attacking its own healthy cells.
Loss of immune tolerance is one of the issues. Immune tolerance is the body’s ability not to attack its own healthy cells.
If immune tolerance is lost, some immune cells can attack body tissues. These cells have a capacity to give out signals which might contribute to increased inflammation. Chronic inflammation over a period of time can start to cause damage to the affected tissue.
The exact process differs between autoimmune diseases. However, the basic problem is similar: the body’s defense system begins responding to something that should normally be left alone.
Genetics Can Increase the Risk
Genes can play an important role in autoimmune disease.
Some people inherit genetic traits that make them more likely to develop certain immune problems. Having a relative with an autoimmune disorder does not guarantee that the other person will develop the same disorder, although the chances could be higher.
Genes are just a piece of the picture. Other factors can also affect whether an autoimmune disease occurs.
This is why doctors may rely on information from a person’s family history, symptoms, medical history, lifestyle and test results when looking for the cause of ongoing immune-related problems.
Infections May Affect Immune Function
Infections can strongly activate the immune system. In some people, an infection may contribute to an abnormal immune response.
Researchers are studying how infections and autoimmune illness relate. Immune cells may become very active during infection. This may cause inflammation or an immunological reaction in at-risk individuals.
This does not mean all infections induce autoimmune disease. Most infections do not cause autoimmunity.
Infection may affect immunological health as one of many factors.
Environmental Factors and Immune Health
Our environment can also affect the immune system.
Chemicals, smoking, infections and other environmental factors can affect inflammation and immunological activation. The effects can vary from person to person.
For people who already have a genetic risk for autoimmune disease, environmental factors may sometimes contribute to the development or worsening of immune problems.
Because autoimmune disease is complex, don’t assume any one exposure or lifestyle choice is always the cause.
Common Autoimmune Diseases
There are many different types of autoimmune diseases. They can affect almost any part of the body. Here are a few common examples:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
This happens when the immune system attacks the joints. It causes pain, swelling and stiffness.
- Type 1 Diabetes
In this condition, the immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. Insulin is a hormone that controls blood sugar.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
This disease damages the protective covering of nerves. It can cause problems with movement, balance and vision.
- Lupus
Lupus is a disease that can affect many different parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys and brain.
How Are Autoimmune Conditions Diagnosed?
There is no single test to diagnose all autoimmune diseases. Diagnosis typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical exam. Based on symptoms, your doctor may recommend:
- Blood tests to detect inflammation or specific antibodies
- Immune function testing to assess immune system activity
- Imaging studies or other evaluations to examine organ involvement
At Heart and Health Medical, our allergy and immunology services include comprehensive evaluation and management of immune-related conditions, as well as allergy testing and on-site blood draw services to streamline the diagnostic process.
Treatment Depends on the Disease
Autoimmune diseases are not all treated in the same way.
Treatment depends on the type of disease, the part of the body affected, the symptoms, and your overall health.
Treatment may help:
- Reduce inflammation
- Control an overactive immune system
- Reduce symptoms
- Protect affected organs
- Prevent health problems
Autoimmune diseases can change over time. Regular visits with your healthcare team can help you manage your condition.
At Heart and Health Medical, different medical specialties work together as part of one medical group. This can help support your care when you need more than one type of medical service.
Final Thoughts
Your immune system is designed to protect you, but sometimes things go wrong. When the immune system loses its ability to distinguish self from non-self, autoimmune disease can develop.
If you’re worried about your immune health, don’t wait.
Our experts at Heart and Health Medical are here to help you understand your body and find the best path forward.
Ready to feel better?
Contact us today to schedule a visit with our immunology specialists. We’re here to help you take charge of your health!
FAQs
Q: If my dad has an autoimmune disease, will I get one too?
Not necessarily! It can run in families, but it’s not a guarantee. You might have a slightly higher chance, but many other things play a role too.
Q: Can stress cause an autoimmune disease?
Stress all by itself doesn’t cause it. But stress can change how your immune system works, and it might be the final “spark” that starts the confusion if you already have the genes for it.