Autoimmune Disease

Diagnosis of Autoimmune Disease

In most cases, symptoms of autoimmune disorders are general, corresponding with symptoms of other conditions, mainly other autoimmune conditions, which makes it challenging to precisely diagnose an autoimmune condition.

The diagnostic procedure may vary according to the specific disease. Generally, it involves the following:

• Blood tests for evaluating antibodies produced by the immune system.
• Complete blood count to assess the body's white and red blood cell levels.
• Simple blood tests to indicate various conditions
• Simple test to measure levels of thyroid hormone.
• Other tests to detect unusual inflammation

For some individuals, diagnosis of autoimmune disease can be a long process. It involves:

• Meeting a specialist
• Assessing family health history
• Recording symptoms
• Looking for a second or more opinion

Treatment of Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune disorder is not curable. However, the condition can be controlled with proper treatment under the guidance of a medical professional. Here are some of the most recommended treatment options:

Pain-killers: Codeine and paracetamol

Anti-inflammatory Drugs: These are prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain.

Physical Therapy: The medicine boosts mobility

Immunosuppressant Drugs: These medications are prescribed to restrict the activity of the immune system.

Corticosteroids: The medicine is prescribed to decrease inflammation and treat an acute flare of symptoms.

Treatment for the Deficiency

Surgery: It is prescribed to treat bowel blockage (Crohn's Disease)

High Dose Immunosuppression: These are immune system-suppressing drugs tried with promising results.

Recovery

Once you are diagnosed with the condition, it is crucial to follow the instructions and prescriptions given by the doctor. Most health professionals will suggest that patients identify food allergies and practice ways to deal with them. Some of the common allergies include:

• Wheat
• Dairy
• Corn
• Soy
• Fish (mainly shellfish)
• Nuts
• Fruits

High sugar content strains the body's immune system. Hence, it is essential to restrict sugary items from the daily diet. Doctors also suggest eliminating trans-fats and other harmful fats from the diet. Add as many good fats to your diet as possible. These include olive oil, avocado, and fish oil.

Some hygiene precautions, such as washing your hands frequently to avoid infections, are also crucial. Take special care of your teeth to avoid gum diseases. Doctors have different dietary recommendations for autoimmune disorders. Similarly, therapeutic recommendations are unique to the disorder one suffers from. The key is to follow the doctor's guidelines. Treatment for autoimmune disorder is a lifestyle. Patients should not consider this a quick fix and expect a miracle.

• Symptoms and Causes