Autoimmune Disease/condition

Have you heard the phrase “autoimmune disease/condition”? What is your understanding of it?

Your normal immune system is able to distinguish between foreign bodies, such as bacteria and viruses, and your normal cells. However, in autoimmune conditions the immune system mistakes normal parts of the body, such as your joints, as the foreign bodies. They release antibodies which attack normal healthy cells.

There are a number of conditions which come under the umbrella term of autoimmune, such as type 1 diabetes, lupus,  multiple sclerosis, crohns disease, Addison’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis (to name a few).

It is more common in women than men, and certain conditions are more common in certain ethnic groups.

Whilst the exact cause is not known, the incidence of cases is rising, so pollution, diet, over use of cleaning (ie reduced exposure to infections) are thought to be contributing factors.

Common symptoms of autoimmune disorders include: fatigue, aching muscles, swollen joints, hair loss, skin rashes, poor concentration, and mild fever.

Treatment usually deals with the symptoms rather than the root cause.

Reflexology is a complementary therapy helping to reduce stress and inflammation in the body, to rebalance itself and reduce symptoms.

As a nurse of 25 years’ standing, I have understanding of how autoimmune conditions can affect you physically, mentally, and emotionally.