How to Live Well With Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune disease is a condition where the body’s immune system considers its own body tissues and organs as foreign and attacks them. Autoimmune conditions are usually chronic in nature and are more common in women. There are nearly hundred autoimmune diseases such as thyroid disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease etc that have been identified by the medical fraternity. Exact cause of such diseases is still unknown. However, factors such as heredity, stress and environmental toxins have been linked to such diseases. Autoimmune conditions cannot be prevented or cured as the cause of such conditions is still unknown. Symptoms such as low grade fever, feelings of malaise, joint pain and fatigue have been associated with most of the autoimmune conditions. Since the cause of such diseases is unknown and the disease being chronic in nature, management of such ailments becomes a challenge for the sufferer. Such diseases considerably hamper a person’s ability to lead a normal life. However, there are many effective coping strategies that can be employed to ease the symptoms and help the sufferers to live well.

Let’s take a look at some suggestions which can help in better management of the illness.

Partner with the doctor: Proper treatment of autoimmune conditions requires an active participation on part of the patient. Partnering with the doctor by asking questions, prompt reporting of changes in symptoms and strictly abiding with the treatment plan chalked by the doctor should be followed.

Nutrition: Nutrition is an essential aspect in the treatment of autoimmune conditions. Balanced and healthy diet can go a long way in strengthening the immune function. A healthy balanced diet comprising of vegetables, fruits, lean meats such as fish and low fat dairy products should be consumed to support the immune function. Foods rich in antioxidants and having anti-inflammatory properties like omega – 3 fatty acids also help. Autoimmune diseases can also be worsened due to certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Hence treating such deficiencies through supplementation can be followed under proper supervision of the doctor.

Exercise: Exercise can help in improving immunity as well as weight management in certain conditions such as hypothyroidism. However, fatigue is associated with almost all autoimmune conditions. In such scenario, it becomes important to carefully chalk out an exercise regime under the guidance of the doctor. Light exercises like Pilates, yoga and walking can be included in daily routine.

Relaxation Techniques: The daily challenge of managing autoimmune conditions often is quite stressful. It can lead to irritability, frustration, anger and depression. To overcome such feelings and other day to day challenges, relaxation techniques such as meditation, pranayam and yoga can be practised. Such spiritual practices are known to calm the mind and also overcome feelings of worthlessness and self pity.

Social Support: It is important to have a good support of family, friends and co-workers in order to overcome the stress and psychological aspects of autoimmune conditions. It is essential that the family understands and adjusts to the health and everyday life needs of the patient. One can also join social support groups like online forums to discuss issues regarding their disease with fellow patients. This helps in alleviating feelings of isolation and loneliness in the patient.

Once afflicted, an autoimmune condition can become a lifelong challenge. Besides following the above tips, one should have a positive approach towards life since the way one thinks can go a long way in managing an autoimmune disease.