Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. There are over 80 different types of autoimmune diseases, and they affect millions of people worldwide.

The symptoms of autoimmune diseases can vary widely, but they often include inflammation, pain, and fatigue. Because these symptoms are not always easy to diagnose, many people with autoimmune diseases often feel like they are fighting a wolf that lives within them.

What Are the Signs of Autoimmune Diseases?

The signs and symptoms of autoimmune diseases can vary depending on the specific condition. However, there are some common signs that people with autoimmune diseases might experience:.

1. Fatigue

Many autoimmune diseases can cause extreme fatigue. People with autoimmune diseases may feel tired even after getting a good night’s sleep.

Fatigue can make it difficult for people to perform daily activities and can negatively impact their quality of life.

2. Joint Pain and Stiffness

Many autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriatic arthritis, can cause joint pain and stiffness. This pain is usually worse in the morning or after long periods of inactivity.

Joint pain can be debilitating, making it difficult for people to move around and perform daily activities.

3. Swelling

Some autoimmune diseases can cause swelling in different parts of the body. Swelling can be localized or affect larger areas, and it can be painful and uncomfortable. In severe cases, swelling can even make it difficult for people to breathe properly.

4. Skin Problems

Many autoimmune diseases can cause skin rashes, hives, and other skin problems. These skin problems can vary widely depending on the specific condition, but they can be very uncomfortable and embarrassing for people.

Skin problems can also be a sign of other underlying health problems, so it is important to seek medical attention if you experience them.

5. Digestive Problems

Autoimmune diseases can also affect the digestive system, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain.

Digestive problems can be a sign of many underlying health problems, so it is important to speak with a doctor if you experience these symptoms.

6. Fever

Fever is a common symptom of many autoimmune diseases. A fever is defined as a body temperature above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, and it is often a sign that the body is fighting an infection or inflammation.

If you experience a fever along with other symptoms of autoimmune disease, it is important to speak with a doctor.

7. Hair Loss

Many autoimmune diseases can cause hair loss. Hair loss can be sudden or gradual, and it can affect the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and other parts of the body.

Hair loss can be very distressing for people, so it is important to seek medical attention if you experience it.

8. Eye Problems

Some autoimmune diseases can cause eye problems, such as dry eyes, sensitivity to light, and even vision loss. Eye problems can be very serious and should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible.

9. Numbness and Tingling

Some autoimmune diseases can cause numbness and tingling in different parts of the body. This is often a sign of nerve damage and can be very uncomfortable. If you experience numbness and tingling, it is important to speak with a doctor.

10. Weakness and Muscle Pain

Some autoimmune diseases can cause muscle weakness and pain. This pain can be localized or affect larger areas, and it can be very debilitating. Weakness and muscle pain can make it difficult for people to move around and perform daily activities.

Conclusion

Autoimmune diseases can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can be so varied and non-specific. If you experience any of the signs or symptoms listed above, it is important to speak with a doctor.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life.