Abstract

An autoimmune disease (AI) happens when the immune system doesn’t recognise its cells. This leads to a problem with how it reacts to these cells. Some of these diseases can be due to your genes, the environment, or even certain infections. They can affect specific organs or the whole body. Examples of autoimmune diseases are insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, thyroiditis, and multiple sclerosis. But wait—there\'s more! Other conditions like arteriosclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, schizophrenia, & some types of infertility also fall into this category. Around 3% of people in North America & Europe have autoimmune disorders. About three out of four people affected are women. How our immune system works and maintains tolerance is a wonder. The present paper aims to explore autoimmune diseases and what causes the immune system to react in a specific way.

Introduction

I. INTRODUCTION

A healthy immune system helps the body for a strong immunity free from disease and infection. Due to some mutations, the immune system attacks healthy cells. These could affect any part of the body, weakening the functioning of the body function and also becoming lethal.  There are more than 50 diseases related to immune imbalance. Some of them are type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis, and some are difficult to find out.  Few unusual autoimmune diseases are rare, and there is prolonged suffering till an individual gets a correct diagnosis. Few autoimmune diseases have no cure. Some require lifelong treatment to reduce the symptomatic effects.  These diseases affect more than 22 million people around the world. Around eight million people have auto-antibodies, blood molecules that indicate an individual's being prone to autoimmune disease. There is not a definite reason for the cause of an Autoimmune disease. Research Studies reveal that these diseases are due to genes and the environment. Background related to various factors like the race a person belongs to ethnicity and gender could develop an autoimmune disease.

II. REVIEW OF LITERATURE

The literature review explores the frequency and epidemiology of autoimmune disorders, emphasising the higher incidence among women and the possible role of hormonal factors. It also focuses on the research on women and autoimmune health. It would also look into the intricate interactions that occur when environmental and genetic variables combine to form a disease. Women's specific autoimmune diseases, like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, would be discussed along with difficulties in diagnosis and therapy, taking into account the special requirements of female patients. The evaluation would cover how autoimmune disorders affect mental health and fertility, among other aspects of quality of life. Differences in the outcomes and accessibility of healthcare for women with autoimmune diseases. Cohen(1988) studied the areas of autoimmune diseases of people.  Cohen (1988) studied the areas of autoimmune diseases of people Epidemiology and autoimmune disease populations was studied in United States by Jacobson(1997). Smith and Germolec(1999) worked on immunity and autoimmunity among people. Smith and Germolec (1999()autoimmune diseases among women. Davidson and Diamond (2001) investigated some of the Autoimmune diseases in England. Cooper(2008) examined the insights in the epidemiology of autoimmune diseases. He studied the improved prevalence estimates and understanding of the clustering of diseases. Davidson and Diamond(2001) investigated some of the Autoimmune diseases in England. Cooper (2009) examined the insights in the epidemiology of autoimmune diseases: improved prevalence estimates and understanding of clustering of diseases. Smith and Germolec (1999) studied the autoimmunity among people with the perspective of environmental health.  Rosenblum et al. (2012) investigated treating human autoimmunity: current practice and prospects.

Fairweather and Rose(2014) worked in the areas of autoimmune diseases among women.  May and Sharon (2023) studied autoimmune diseases and worked on various parameters to understand autoimmune diseases.  Martins (2024) carried out work on what an auto-immune disease is and its diverse adverse effects, especially on women.  Varma and Watson (2024) investigated the minute things to notice and understand to know everything about autoimmune diseases.

A. Immunity and Autoimmunit y

The immune system helps to guard the body against larvae, bacteria and viruses protecting the organism from diseases. In an autoimmune disorder condition, the immune system gets disturbed and slowly destroys the healthy body cells and tissues.  However, many autoimmune conditions are due to genetic factors, environmental factors and infections.  In addition, when an individual has prolonged treatments, it reduces the responses of the immune system. Antibiotics do not cause autoimmune diseases. The possibility for the development of an autoimmune disease for anyone is there, but few factors could elevate the risk of AI diseases.

1. Common factors of Auto-Immune Diseases are
   1. Genetics: A few autoimmune diseases are inherited. Genes that predispose a person to a condition may be inherited, but the ailment may not manifest until a combination of triggers is encountered.
   2. Environmental factors: The onset of autoimmune diseases can be influenced by sunlight, certain chemicals, and bacterial or viral infections.
   3. Gender: Compared to men, more women suffer from autoimmune diseases.
   4. Hormonal variables are thought to be involved by doctors. During a woman's reproductive age, which is the period between her first menstrual cycle and menopause, the problems frequently manifest.
   5. Ethnicity: A factor in the severity and diagnosis of some autoimmune disorders. For instance, more White individuals get a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, but African Americans and Hispanics experience more severe lupus.

• Nutrition: the ingredients in your food may have an impact

2. Common types of AI diseases are

1. Diabetes (Type I): This type happens when the cells in your pancreas that make insulin get disturbed and messed up by your immune system. Because of this, high blood sugar levels can harm organs and blood vessels. Some areas hit the hardest include your heart, kidneys, and eyes.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune condition where the immune system targets the joints which connects two bones. This can lead to swelling & stiffness. Mostly, autoimmune diseases show up as people get older, but sometimes they can start early, even in your thirties! A rare type that kicks off when kids are young is called juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
3. Psoriasis/Psoriatic Arthritis: Normally, skin cells grow and fall off when they’re not needed anymore. But psoriasis makes those skin cells multiply too quickly. So, extra cells pile up, causing patches that get inflamed. On lighter skin, these patches look red with silver-white scales. On pigmented skin tones, psoriasis might look purplish or dark brownish, sometimes with lightly visible gray scales.
4. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS harms the protective covering surrounding the nerve cells in your central nervous system called as myelin sheath. When that coating gets damaged, it slows down how fast messages travel between your brain, spinal cord & the rest of Your body. This can lead to numbness, weakness, balance problems & trouble walking. Each form of MS moves at its speed. One of the most common issues for people with MS is having a hard time walking.
5. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): A long ago, back in the 1800s, doctors thought lupus was just a skin problem because it often causes a rash. But the systemic kind, which is pretty common, actually impacts many organs in our bodies. For instance, it can hurt your joints, kidneys, brain, and heart. People might feel joint pain, be super tired, or notice rashes.
6. Inflammatory bowel disease: IBD is a name for conditions that make the lining of the intestines inflamed. There are different types of IBD, & each one messes with a specific part of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
7. Crohn’s disease can affect any area of your GI tract—from your mouth all the way to your bottom! ulcerative colitis focuses on the lining of the large intestine (that’s the colon) & rectum. If you have IBD, you might deal with symptoms like diarrhea, stomach pain, and bleeding ulcers.
8. Addison’s disease: This condition takes a toll on the adrenal glands. Those glands are important because they make hormones like cortisol and aldosterone, plus some androgens. When there isn't enough cortisol, your body struggles with using & storing sugar and carbohydrates (like glucose). Not having enough aldosterone can lead to losing sodium and having too much potassium in your blood. Common signs of Addison's disease can be weakness, feeling tired, losing weight, or having low blood sugar.
9. Graves’ disease: This illness affects the thyroid gland in your neck and gets it to produce too much hormone. The thyroid hormones help control how we use energy; this is called metabolism. With too much hormone buzzing around your body, it revs up everything! Symptoms may include a fast heartbeat (tachycardia), being uncomfortable with heat, losing weight without trying, and swelling in the thyroid (that’s called a goiter). Some folks with Graves’ disease might also notice skin issues (known as Graves’ dermopathy) or eye problems (this is called Graves’ ophthalmopathy).

These diseases can be tough but knowing about them helps us understand, stay curious and take care.

B. Impact of AutoImmune Diseases on Women

Autoimmune diseases pose unique challenges for women, affecting their physical health, emotional well-being, and social dynamics. These conditions are characterized by the immune system attacking the body's tissues and manifest in various ways, such as chronic pain, fatigue, and organ dysfunction. Managing these illnesses demands ongoing medical care, including medication regimens and lifestyle adjustments, which can disrupt daily routines and financial stability. Moreover, autoimmune diseases can complicate fertility and pregnancy, increasing the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and other complications. This underscores the importance of specialized prenatal care for affected women. The unpredictable nature of these diseases can lead to emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. Coping with the impact on personal relationships and societal expectations further complicates the journey for women battling autoimmune conditions. By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of these conditions, women can strive for better management and an improved quality of life.

C. Diagnosis of Autoimmune Disease

Diagnosis of autoimmune disease can be a complicated and lengthy procedure. For some people, it may take years to get the right diagnosis. There can be various reasons for this. Not all symptoms will appear at the same time; they may be intermittent or develop gradually over time. Some symptoms may overlap with symptoms of other problems, especially other autoimmune diseases. For example, lupus can affect the joints in the same way that rheumatoid arthritis can. The diagnostic process also varies depending on the specific disease. However, blood tests are usually required. In some cases, blood tests can reveal various medical conditions. For example, a simple test to measure thyroid hormone levels is needed to diagnose Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease. A test called a complete blood count helps your doctor to check the quantity and levels of white and red blood cells in your body. When the immune system fights something, the levels differ from the usual basic line. The doctor may be able to diagnose an autoimmune disease, analyzing antibodies that the immune system produces. However, blood tests for autoantibodies may remain positive for years before symptoms appear, and other tests may show abnormal inflammation, which is a fairly common problem among all autoimmune diseases. These tests typically include a C-reactive protein test and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate test to help diagnose.

To help the diagnostic process, writing out a family health history, record symptoms over time and consulting a specialist. As autoimmune diseases can involve a single organ or be systemic and involve multiple organs, a person needs to meet with a specialist and discuss any precipitating events before the symptoms begin. This may include an infection, an injury, or a particularly high stress event.

D. Autoimmune Diseases and its Treatment

While there is no cure for any autoimmune condition, treatments can reduce or eliminate symptoms, slow progression, and improve quality of life. Specific approaches vary by condition, but common treatments include:

1. Relieving symptoms: This may involve taking aspirin or ibuprofen to overcome mild pain and swelling or prescribed alternatives, according on the severity of the symptoms.
2. Taking replacement drugs: Some autoimmune disorders affect the body’s ability to produce what it needs. For instance, type 1 diabetes keeps the body from creating enough insulin, various medications can replace these substances. as a solution a person may take insulin injections or have pills containing synthetic versions of thyroid hormone.
3. Taking immuno-suppressants: For many people, medications that suppress the immune system can relieve the symptoms of an autoimmune disorder and slow its progression. Each infection is diverse, and depending on a person's side effects, it may be weakening. It is vital that an individual counsels a specialist routinely and takes after all the suggested medicines.
4. Sound way of life choices, such as eating an adjusted slim down and working out frequently when conceivable, can go a long way toward making a difference diminish a person's indications
5. Individuals can regularly proceed living their regular lives, but understanding one's transmission capacity is imperative, counting permitting rest periods as necessary. It’s additionally imperative to talk around how the infection is influencing a person's life with companions, family, or a bolster arrange.

E. Coping with an Autoimmune Diseases through Yoga

Yoga can be the beneficial complementary approach for individuals dealing with auto- immune diseases. While it’s important to note that yoga is not a substitute for medical treatment, so individuals must consult healthcare units  before starting an exercise or yoga regimen. Yoga can contribute to overall being in several ways:

1. Stress reduction: many auto-immune diseases are exacerbated by stress. Yoga emphasizes mindfulness and relaxation, helping to reduce stress levels so practising deep breathing and meditation can help.
2. Inflammation management: certain yoga poses and gentle moments may help reduce inflammation. while more research is needed, some studies suggest that yoga has anti-inflammatory effects.
3. Improved joint flexibility: for auto immune diseases affecting joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gentle yoga movements can enhance joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.
4. Enhanced sleep quality: autoimmune diseases often disrupt sleep patterns.  The main focus of yoga is on relaxation and calming the mind which eventually can contribute to improved sleep quality.
5. Balancing mind and body connection: yoga highlights the connection between the mind and body of a human being. Gentle yoga can provide a form of low-impacted exercise suitable for individuals with autoimmune diseases. It promotes better circulation, improves flexibility, and   strengthens muscle without putting excessive strain on the body.
6. Navigating Challenges faced by the patient: The hardships faced by the patients are very drastic; mentally and physically.

F. Mental challenges

1. Emotional Strain: Living with a chronic autoimmune disease can lead to persistent emotional stress, anxiety, and even depression. Coping with the uncertainty of flare-ups and the impact on daily life can be mentally challenging.
2. Social distancing or Isolation: Fatigue, pain, and other symptoms may force to stop a person's ability to engage in social activities. This can lead to feelings of being isolated and lonely, effecting mental well-being.
3. Coping with Uncertainty: Autoimmune diseases often involve unpredictable symptom patterns and varying levels of severity. Coping with the uncertainty of how the condition will progress can be mentally taxing.
4. Body Image Concerns: Some autoimmune diseases may cause visible symptoms, such as skin rashes or joint deformities. Coping with changes in physical appearance can affect self-esteem and body image.
5. Financial Stress: The cost of medical treatments, medications, and potential lifestyle changes can contribute to financial strain, adding an extra layer of stress for individuals and their families.

G. Physical Challenges

1. Chronic Pain: Many autoimmune diseases are associated with chronic pain, affecting joints, muscles, or other tissues. This continued discomfort may significantlyVV impact the quality of a person’s life.
2. Fatigue: Persistent fatigue is a common symptom of autoimmune diseases. It can be overwhelming and affect a person's ability to perform daily activities, both at home and at work.
3. Reduced Mobility: Joint and muscle involvement in autoimmune conditions can lead to reduced mobility and difficulty in performing routine tasks, impacting independence and overall physical well-being.
4. Medication Side Effects: The medications prescribed to manage autoimmune diseases may have side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Balancing the benefits of treatment with potential side effects can be a constant concern.
5. Fluctuating Symptoms: Autoimmune diseases often involve flare-ups and periods of remission. Managing symptoms that fluctuate over time requires adaptability and resilience

Patients with autoimmune diseases face a combination of these challenges, and the impact can vary widely from person to person. Holistic care that addresses both the physical and mental aspects of the condition is crucial in providing comprehensive support for individuals dealing with autoimmune diseases.

H. Natural Healing

Nature serves as a powerful source in improving the conditions of patients. The restorative influence of natural environments goes beyond mere aesthetics, providing tangible benefits for physical and mental well-being. Exposure to nature has been linked to reduced stress levels, contributing to a more relaxed state for patients. The calming effect of green spaces and natural elements can positively impact mood, alleviating symptoms of anxiety or depression. Additionally, access to fresh air and outdoor settings may enhance the overall healing process, supporting physical recovery and providing a welcome respite from the clinical confines of medical facilities. In essence, nature offers a holistic and therapeutic environment that complements medical interventions, fostering a conducive atmosphere for patients on their journey towards better health.

I. Innovative Approach in the research of Autoimmune Diseases

Innovations in autoimmune disease research are continually advancing, offering hope for improved understanding and treatment. Some key areas of innovation include:

1. Precision Medicine: Utilizing genetic and molecular profiling to tailor treatments based on individual patient characteristics. Identifying specific biomarkers for more targeted and personalized therapies.
2. Biological Therapies: Advancements in biologics, including monoclonal antibodies and cytokine inhibitors. Targeting specific immune system components to modulate the autoimmune response.
3. Stem Cell Therapy: Exploring the potential of stem cells to regenerate damaged tissues and modulate immune responses. Clinical trials investigating the safety and efficacy of stem cell treatments for autoimmune diseases.
4. Microbiome Research: Investigating the role of the gut microbiome in autoimmune diseases. Understanding how microbial communities influence immune system regulation.
5. Immunotherapy: Developing novel immunotherapies to recalibrate the immune system. Immunomodulatory agents that promote tolerance and reduce autoimmunity.
6. Nanomedicine: Application of nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery. Enhancing treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects.
7. Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Diagnostics: Implementing AI algorithms for more accurate and rapid diagnosis of autoimmune diseases. Analyzing  various complex data sets to identify different patterns and predict the disease outcomes.
8. Vaccines for Autoimmune Diseases : Development of therapeutic vaccines to modulate immune responses .Targeting specific antigens involved in autoimmune processes.
9. Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs): Integrating patient-generated data to better understand the impact of autoimmune diseases on daily life .Utilizing PROs in clinical trials to assess treatment effectiveness.
10. Telemedicine and Remote Monitoring: Leveraging technology for remote patient monitoring . Enhancing accessibility to healthcare resources for individuals with autoimmune diseases.    These innovations collectively represent a dynamic and promising landscape in autoimmune disease research, with the potential to transform the way these conditions are understood and treated.

J. Support from the Family and Society

Support from friends and family plays a crucial role in helping individuals with autoimmune diseases cope with both the physical and emotional challenges they face. Here are some ways that people around patients can provide comfort and support:

1. Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about the specific autoimmune disease the individual is dealing with. Understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and potential challenges can help you provide more informed support.
2. Be Empathetic: Acknowledge the physical and emotional struggles without downplaying or dismissing them. Show empathy and  understanding of the difficulties the person may be experiencing.
3. Offer Practical Assistance: Individuals with autoimmune diseases may face limitations in their daily activities. Offer assistance with practical tasks such as grocery shopping, cooking, or household chores to ease their burden.
4. Be Flexible and Understanding: Autoimmune diseases can be unpredictable, with symptoms fluctuating. Be flexible and understanding if plans need to be adjusted or canceled due to health considerations.
5. Listen Without Judgment: Sometimes, individuals simply need someone to talk to. Be a good listener without passing any type of  judgment.  creating a non-judgmental space for them to express their feelings can be very encouraging and comforting.
6. Respect Their Boundaries: Understand that there may be times when the person needs space or may not feel up to socializing.  Respect their boundaries and give them the autonomy to communicate their needs.
7. Accompany to Appointments: Offer to accompany them to medical appointments, especially if they need support or assistance.  Having someone there can provide emotional comfort and help with information retention.
8. Encourage Self-Care: Remind the person to prioritize self-care. This could include encouraging them to rest, engage in activities they enjoy, or practice relaxation techniques like meditation or gentle exercises.
9. Be a Source of Positivity: Positivity and encouragement can make a significant difference. Offer words of support, celebrate small victories, and provide encouragement during challenging times.
10. Respect Dietary Restrictions: If the autoimmune disease involves dietary restrictions, be mindful of these when planning meals or  gatherings. Accommodating dietary needs shows consideration and support.

Remember that each person's experience with autoimmune diseases is unique, so it's essential to communicate openly and listen to their individual needs. Providing consistent support, understanding, and empathy can go a long way in helping individuals with autoimmune diseases feel comforted and less isolated in their journey.

Conclusion

Autoimmune diseases pose a significant challenge to individuals and the medical community alike, particularly for women, due to higher prevalence rates and complex factors like genetics and hormones. The interplay between genetics, hormonal factors, and environmental triggers contributes to the complexity of these conditions. Diagnosis and treatment complexities underscore the need for personalized approaches, while addressing impacts on quality of life and reducing healthcare disparities are crucial for comprehensive care. Increased awareness, early diagnosis, and ongoing research are crucial in the quest for better understanding and improved management of these complex disorders. As scientists continue to unravel the mysteries of the immune system, hope remains for more continued research into the underlying mechanisms of autoimmunity and the development of targeted therapies will be essential in improving outcomes and bringing effective treatments and ultimately aiming to provide a better quality of life for those affected by auto- immune diseases.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2024 Pramod J.P , Vanita M, Sameena Sultana. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.