Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases are illnesses caused by the body’s own immune system attacking its own cells and organs. These diseases can affect any organ system and can cause various symptoms, ranging from mild to life-threatening. They are caused by an abnormal immune response where the immune system mistakenly sees healthy cells as foreign and attacks them. Autoimmune diseases are common and affect more than 23 million people in the US alone. Treatments of autoimmune diseases focus on managing symptoms and reducing the underlying cause. The primary goals of treatment are to return the patient to the best level of functioning and reduce the chance of complications. Treatment may include medications, lifestyle modifications, and other therapies.