With wide-ranging consequences to a patient’s health, an autoimmune deficiency has the potential to play havoc with the human body. When suffering from an autoimmune condition like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus, the body’s natural tissues can find themselves attacking one another – a common consequence which often results in a reduction in the body’s ability to fight off diseases. Luckily, though, there are ways to detect an autoimmune deficiency and to make sure you have the tools to spot the signs. Here are some of the methods you can use to detect the symptoms of these conditions and how you can prevent them from getting worse.
Watch out for physical signs
When it comes to autoimmune deficiencies, there are lots of different conditions which all fall under the same umbrella. Yet, despite this variety of conditions, they have some symptoms in common. For example, it’s normal for those suffering from an autoimmune deficiency to experience problems such as swelling or paint in the joints, excessive fatigue, a swelling of the glands, or issues with their skin. Educating yourself about the signs of an autoimmune deficiency and making sure you’re aware of possible symptoms is a good move, as it means you can be on the lookout as you monitor your general health.
Monitor your mind and sleep
It’s not only physical symptoms which can occur when you’re suffering from an autoimmune deficiency. It’s also possible for symptoms to manifest themselves in your mind too, and you may find yourself experiencing problems with a psychological element. For instance, if you start to find it difficult to focus on tasks or you can no longer fully concentrate on a subject when you were previously able to, it could indicate an autoimmune deficiency. Similarly, insomnia can also be a sign, so if you’re struggling to sleep well at night, then it might be worth checking in with a physician.
Make sure you get tested
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or your family has a genetic history of autoimmune disease, it’s definitely a wise idea to get tested. Almost anyone can be tested for an autoimmune disease, and an inflammation blood test is a good way to detect any issues. While some inflammation can help the body as part of its natural systems, excessive inflammation can be a sign that your autoimmune system is not working properly.
As a result, a test which shows that you’re experiencing high levels of inflammation may lead your physician to search for other symptoms of autoimmune disease. Prevention, as the saying goes, is the best cure, and getting tested regularly by a professional is an ideal way to stay on top of any symptoms which may emerge.
Keep an eye on your weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for all people, not just those who are at risk of – or who are worried about – developing an autoimmune disease. However, for those who are specifically looking to avoid developing or worsening an autoimmune condition, working on weight control is a particularly good idea. It’s not certain why those who are overweight are at a higher risk of certain autoimmune disorders, but one possible reason is that carrying extra weight can cause a great deal of stress on your joints.
Ask your doctor about medications
Drugs like antibiotics are great for helping us tackle the many health conditions we can face in our day to day lives, but no matter what the beneficial effects of the drugs we take are, there can sometimes be substantial side effects. Sometimes, these side effects can be the development of health problems associated with autoimmune issues.
For example, medications which help people to control the amount of cholesterol in their bodies, which are known as statins, can sometimes lead to an autoimmune disease affecting the muscles known as myopathy. The solution, however, is not to avoid certain medications simply to cut your risk of these diseases. Instead, you should speak to your physician about any concerns you might have. That way, you’ll be able to get expert advice and achieve a balance of medications which works for you.
While the prospect of suffering from an autoimmune deficiency can be frightening, there’s reason to be hopeful even if you’re at risk or worried that you’re developing a problem. From watching your weight to getting tested, there are lots of ways you can monitor your body for the telltale signs and symptoms of this condition and make sure that you stay healthy.
