An autoimmune disease describes a somewhat perplexing condition where the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks itself. Classic autoimmune diseases can include type 1 diabetes, MS, and rheumatoid arthritis as well as Celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, Lupus, and psoriasis. Suffering from an autoimmune disorder can be very frustrating for the patient, as it can take years and many visits to multiple doctors offering various treatments to a complex system of symptoms before a practical diagnosis is finally made.
COVID and Autoimmune Disease
Of the estimated eight percent of Americans who already live with an autoimmune disorder, COVID-19 presents even more health challenges, as these folks are more likely to develop serious complications (or suffer death) than are the general population. Recent studies and clinical reviews indicate that a small percentage of otherwise healthy individuals have experienced COVID-19 complications that seems to trigger the development of autoimmune conditions.
Early Symptoms
Women are much more likely to have autoimmune issues than are men, making up approximately 75 percent of cases in the US. An autoimmune disease can manifest with a variety of symptoms, while initial symptoms can be quite similar, including;
- Muscle pain, joint aches, swelling
- Skin redness, rashes
- Hair loss
- Fatigue, insomnia
- Mild fever
- Numbness in hands and/or feet
According to the National Institutes of Health, up to 23.5 million Americans suffer from an autoimmune disease—and toss in the many health complications posed by a pandemic, that number is on the rise. Currently, the diagnosis of autoimmune disease covers more than 80 chronic, often debilitating, and life-threatening illnesses.
Causes of Autoimmune Disorders
While it is a mysterious disease to try and track back to its origin, it is likely that in some people autoimmune disease is hereditary, with the same disease manifesting within a family over time. Other risk factors include triggers such as environmental toxins, viruses, bacteria, and even diet. Research has suggested that the presence of B-cells (a type of white blood cell) may have a strong influence on the development and progression of certain autoimmune diseases.
It is also thought that certain gastrointestinal infections stemming from Salmonella and Shigella can instigate autoimmune diseases particularly rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriatic arthritis. Additional organisms include Chlamydia, streptococcal infections and amoebas may also be implicated in the cause for autoimmune diseases.
Treating the Whole Body
Conventional medicine generally addresses autoimmune disease in a limited fashion, preferring to treat symptoms with medication. In a holistic practice, it is recognized that drugs tend to target only one aspect of a much larger disorder. As autoimmune disease is a complicated condition involving many factors including overall immune function, gut health, genetics and epigenetics, hormone health and even mental and emotional health, naturopathic medicine takes a whole-body approach.
Holistic Treatments for Autoimmune Health
Many people experiencing autoimmune conditions soon discover that naturopathic medicine offers an entirely new range of treatments aimed at symptom relief and whole body healing. Naturopathic practitioners work with patients offering services aimed at preventive care, diet, lifestyle, herbal medicine and supplements, acupuncture, mind-body medicine, and other therapies. Treatment of symptoms while supporting the body through the healing process can also include therapies such as Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and regenerative medicine.
A naturopathic practice combines knowledge of the body’s natural healing properties with the rigors of modern science to focus on holistic, proactive prevention and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment. By using protocols that minimize the risk of harm, naturopathic physicians help facilitate the body’s inherent ability to restore and maintain optimal health. We treat all medical conditions and can provide both individual and family health care.
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