Autoimmune Disease

Most diseases begin in the gut.
Autoimmune diseases are a wide range of related disorders in which a person’s immune system wrongly attacks the body’s own cells and tissues. There are more then 80 identified autoimmune conditions including inflammatory bowel disease and type 1 diabetes.

Localised

Addison’s disease (adrenal)
Autoimmune hepatitis (liver)
Coeliac disease (gastrointestinal tract)
Crohn’s disease (gastrointestinal tract)
Diabetes type 1 (pancreas)
Grave’s disease (thyroid)
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (nervous system)
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (thyroid)
Multiple sclerosis (nervous system)
Myashenia gravis (nerves, muscles)
Type 1 Diabetes (
Ulcerative colitis (gastrointestinal tract)

Systemic

SystemicAntiphospholipid antibody syndromes (blood)
Dermatomyositis (skin, muscles)
Mixed connective tissues disease
Polymyalgia rheumatica (large muscle groups)
Polymyositis (skin, muscles)
Primary Rahnaud’s disease (blood vessels)
Rheumatoid arthritis (joints, less commonly lungs, skin,eyes)
Scleroderma (skin, intestine, less commonly lungs, kidneys)
Sjogren’s syndrome (salivary glands, tear glands, joints)
Systemic lupus erythematosus (skin, joints, kidneys, heart, brain, ed blood cells, other)

The Gut-Immune Relationship

Most diseases begin in the gut.
Intestinal barrier function has important implications for the aetiology and pathogenesis of numerous intestinal and systemic diseases, including autoimmune reactions.
Resent research suggests that autoimmune disease may be managed by restoring intestinal barrier integrity, as this then limits the continuous interplay between genes and the environment that keeps the disease in its active state.

Symptoms

The symptoms of autoimmune disease vary depending on the disease as well as the person’s immune system.

You may be experiencing adrenal fatigue if you regularly notice one or more of the following:

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Anxiety, Irritability, or Depression
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Hair Loss
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Low or High Blood Pressure
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Infertility or Low Sex Drive (Reduced Libido)
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Leg Cramps & Muscle Twitching
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Acne
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Dizziness
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Ichthyosis
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Sweating
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Extreme sensitivity to cold in the hands and feet
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Exhaustion & Fatigue
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Nausea
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Inflammation
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Malaise
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Elevated fever and High Body Temperature
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Weakness and Stiffness in Muscles and Joints
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Weight Changes
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Digestive or Gastrointestinal Problems
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Blood sugar changes
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Hormone fluctuation which worsen menstrual cycles
Adrenal Fatigue Autoimmune Disease
Depending on the type of autoimmune disease, an increase in the size of an organ or tissue or the destruction of an organ or tissue can result.

Autoimmune Diseases in Children & Babies

A common autoimmune disease in both babies and children is Celiac disease. Celiac disease is a condition affecting the small intestine which hinders the digestion of foods containing gluten. Babies that are born into a family with a history of celiac disease are susceptible to the condition. Babies who are bottle fed will display signs of the disease, due to many formulas containing wheat. Breastfed babies will begin to show symptoms when they start eating solid foods.

Signs that your child may have Celiac disease are chronic diarrhea, constant crying due to pain, weight loss, bloating, and vomiting. Children that develop Celiac disease usually have a genetic predisposition from either their mother or father. Though a child may not show symptoms of Celiac disease while still a baby; exposure to gluten will trigger the disease. Growth and development is the main concern for children with Celiac disease, along with bone thinning and tooth discoloration.

Some children display only moderate symptoms of the disease, like abnormal height compared to age and fatigue. Even when symptoms are moderate it is important to create a meal plan that is gluten- free. Trying to stay gluten free can be cumbersome; some parents find it helpful to see a dietician or nutritionist to help plan meals.

Contributing Causes of Autoimmune Disease

There are many different underlying factors that may contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases. Including the following:
  • Environmental toxins
  • Heredity or genetics
  • Viruses
  • Sunlight
  • Iodine
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Pregnancy

Poor diet, lack of exercise, lack of sleep, abuse of alcohol and use of tobacco can also weaken the immune system.

Treatment

Several herbal and nutraceutical remedies assist in reversing compromised barrier function.There are many natural remedies that offer an alternative to conventional anti-inflammatories. Not only can they soothe the over-active and misguided immune system, but natural anti-inflammatories can also help to restore the body’s self-healing mechanisms and natural balance.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies are 100% natural and gentle, yet effective to use without the potential side effects of prescription medications. Herbs can be used to detoxify the bloodstream. These herbs are able to cleanse the blood and act as natural anti-inflammatories for muscles and joints. Other herbs can reduce muscle pain and stiffness, and help those who suffer from skin disorders.

Tissue salts and homeopathic ingredients are also highly effective aids to restoring balance, health and vitality, as they do not over-stimulate the immune system. They are nutroceuticals (nutritional substances), which can help to relieve the symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases and improve functioning. Ingredients such as Natrium sulphate, Kalium phosphate and Natrium phosphate can optimize the nervous system and lift the mood. Contact us about the best treatment for your needs.