AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS

Navigating Autoimmune Disorders: Understanding, Symptoms, and Management

Autoimmune disorders are a group of conditions where the body's immune system, which is designed to protect against harmful invaders, mistakenly targets and attacks its own healthy cells and tissues.

These disorders can affect various parts of the body and lead to a wide range of symptoms. Understanding the underlying mechanisms, common autoimmune disorders, and management strategies is crucial for those living with these conditions.

autoimmune diseases

The Immune System's Role

The immune system's primary role is to recognize and eliminate foreign invaders, such as bacteria and viruses. In autoimmune disorders, this complex system malfunctions, identifying the body's own tissues and cells as threats and triggering an immune response against them.

 

immune system
autoimmune diseases

Common Autoimmune Disorders

There are over 80 different types of autoimmune disorders, each affecting specific organs or systems. Some of the more common ones include:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and potential joint damage.
  • Lupus: Can impact the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and other organs, leading to a range of symptoms.
  • Type 1 Diabetes: Targets insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, causing issues with blood sugar regulation.
  • Multiple Sclerosis: Affects the nervous system, leading to communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body.
  • Celiac Disease: A reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine's lining and affects nutrient absorption.
  • Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: Attacks the thyroid gland, leading to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

Types Of Treatment

Medications
Depending on the disorder, medications can include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
Lifestyle Changes
Adopting a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep can support overall well-being.
Immunosuppressive Therapy
Some autoimmune disorders may require medications that suppress the immune system's activity to prevent further damage.
Physical Therapy
Complementing our regenerative treatments, we offer personalized physical therapy programs to strengthen the muscles around the affected joint, improve flexibility, and enhance overall joint stability. Physical therapy plays a vital role in the long-term success of joint pain management.

Research and Future Outlook

Ongoing research is shedding light on the underlying causes of autoimmune disorders, which may include genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and molecular mechanisms. Advances in treatment options and personalized medicine are providing hope for improved management and better outcomes for those affected by these conditions.
Autoimmune Disorders

Satisfied Patients

For Almost 40 Years

  • Sheryl
    Dr. Stauss has been the best. He always makes me feel like a person and not a patient. He knows what he is doing and is always willing to listen to issues and answer questions I have. I have seen many doctors for my pain and none of them have been as helpful as him and his staff.  
    Sheryl
  • Tammy
    Dr. Stauss is kind, compassionate, and truly cares about his patients. I have been a patient for a while, and he does everything he can to manage my pain and make sure I am comfortable. I highly recommend Dr. Stauss and Advanced Pain Management.  
    Tammy
  • Stanley
    Dr Stauss is the most compassionate doctor I have had in this 16 yr journey of chronic back pain . He takes the time to listen to you and helps you decide what treatment will help give you back your life with less pain. He is amazing. I have 75 % pain relief. I never thought I would have a life with minimal pain again.  
    Stanley
  • Jerry
    The thought of never being able to work again let alone participate in physical activity was depressing. Dr. Stauss went over the available options and with his help I selected an intrathecal pain pump. I can tell you it changed my life. It enabled me to continue working and participate in some physical activities! I can't thank Dr. Stauss and his physician assistant P.A. Greg Cavanaugh enough. They have bought me 10 yrs. of relative normalcy. I would highly recommend both of them. Thank you to both and the team at Advanced Pain Management  
    Jerry