Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system, which is responsible for protecting the body against foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses, begins attacking its own healthy cells.

This results in chronic inflammation and damage to various organs and tissues of the body. There are more than 80 known autoimmune diseases, with symptoms and severity varying widely among individuals.

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the joints but can also damage other organs. The symptoms of RA include joint stiffness, pain, and swelling, especially in the morning or after inactivity.

Other signs may include fatigue, fever, weight loss, and rheumatoid nodules. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and prevent joint deformities.

Treatment: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic response modifiers, and corticosteroids are commonly used to manage RA.

Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and surgery may also be necessary.

2. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs.

The symptoms of SLE vary widely among individuals and can include fatigue, a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, joint pain and stiffness, fever, weight loss, kidney problems, and neurological symptoms. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent serious complications.

Treatment: Treatment for SLE typically includes a combination of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antimalarials, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologic therapies.

Lifestyle changes such as protecting skin from the sun and getting regular exercise can also help manage symptoms.

3. Sjögren’s Syndrome

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the moisture-producing glands, leading to dry eyes, dry mouth, and other symptoms. It can also cause joint pain and stiffness, fatigue, and organ damage.

Sjögren’s syndrome is often associated with other autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment: Treatment for Sjögren’s syndrome is focused on managing symptoms, including the use of artificial tears and saliva, as well as medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), hydroxychloroquine, and corticosteroids.

Lifestyle changes such as drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can also help manage symptoms.

4. Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, numbness or tingling in the limbs, muscle weakness, vision problems, and difficulty with coordination and balance.

Symptoms can vary widely among individuals and may come and go in episodes.

Treatment: Treatment for MS may include disease-modifying therapies, corticosteroids, muscle relaxants, and medications to manage specific symptoms.

Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other therapies can also help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

5. Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas.

This leads to high blood sugar levels and can cause symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurry vision, and increased appetite.

Treatment: Treatment for type 1 diabetes typically involves insulin replacement therapy, such as injections or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) system.

Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise are also important for managing blood sugar levels.

6. Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine.

This can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, and weight loss.

Treatment: Treatment for celiac disease involves a strict gluten-free diet, as well as vitamin and mineral supplements to correct any deficiencies. In some cases, medications may also be prescribed to manage symptoms.

7. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes skin cells to grow abnormally, leading to thick, scaly patches on the skin. This condition can also cause joint pain and stiffness, nail changes, and other symptoms.

Treatment: Treatment for psoriasis typically involves topical creams and ointments, phototherapy (exposure to ultraviolet light), and systemic medications such as immunosuppressants and biologics.

Lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers like stress and alcohol may also be helpful.