Autoimmune Disorders
Prevention and More
Essential Questions
What are autoimmune diseases?
How do they affect people’s bodies?
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Ulcerative Colitis
Systematic Lupus Erythematosus
How can they be managed?
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Ulcerative Colitis
Systematic Lupus Erythematosus
- What can be done to prevent autoimmune diseases?
Can autoimmune diseases be cured?
Who is affected by autoimmune diseases?
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Ulcerative Colitis
Systematic Lupus Erythematosus
What is it?
Autoimmune disorders are disorders that involve the abnormal over activity of the immune system. The immune system essentially malfunctions in response to an unknown trigger, and begins producing antibodies that instead of fighting infections, attack the body's own healthy cells and tissues.
These antibodies cause chronic inflammation which can decrease the body's ability to fight invaders, causing vulnerability to infections. Treatment for autoimmune diseases generally focuses on reducing immune system activity.
Is there a cure?
Autoimmune disorders are lifelong, chronic diseases that cannot be cured, but they can be managed. Being compliant with therapy, knowing the triggers, living a healthy lifestyle, and reducing stress can help to alleviate symptoms and reduce the damaging effects of these complicated diseases.