DEFINITION

Autoimmune disease is the name given to a broad category of diseases in which the body's immune system begins attacking its own tissues. Some well known examples include rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes mellitus.

DESCRIPTION

Under normal circumstances the immune system is responsible for defending against foreign invaders. In Autoimmune Disease, however, the immune system begins attacking normal body tissue causing damage and inflammation. The effects of Autoimmune Disease may be local (acting only on tissues in a small area) or systemic (affecting similar tissues throughout the body).

There are many types of Autoimmune Disease depending on the location and type of tissue involved but are generally divided into two general categories: the collagen diseases and the autoimmune haemolytic (blood destroying) disorders. The first of these categories include such disorders as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and scleroderma and attack the connective tissue of the body causing scarring, loss of tissue integrity, loss of function and inflammation. The second category is primarily composed of disorders which affect the blood by attacking blood cells.

Many Autoimmune Diseases appear cyclical in nature, having periods of crisis (where the disease is extremely active) and periods of remission (where the disease is apparently inactive). Periods of crisis are often precipitated by stress such as illness, physical trauma or emotional trauma.

CAUSE

The precise cause of these disorders is unknown. Many theories have been advanced and tested including viruses and bacteria, possible reactions against vaccinations, allergic reactions, genetic influences and stress reactions to name a few. At this stage, it seems most likely that Autoimmune Disease is caused by a number of factors, with complex interactions which vary from disorder to disorder.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Medical treatment for Autoimmune Disease includes corticosteroid, anti-inflammatory, and immunosuppressive drugs. Symptomatic relief may be required and depends on the type and location of the disorder. Other specific medical procedures may be required depending on the type of Autoimmune Disease.
General rules for good health should be followed including:
- Healthy diet appropriate for your condition.
- Regular exercise appropriate for your condition (ask the advice of your health professional).
- Stress management.
- Adequate rest.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
1) Ask your Pharmacist about products specific for your condition. A range of products exist which are designed to provide symptomatic relief for a variety of conditions.
2) Ask your Pharmacist about home health care aids designed to make life easier when pain or mobility is a problem.
3) Ask your Pharmacist about possible side effects of prescription and non-prescription medications. Keep your Pharmacist informed of any medications or supplements you may be taking.
4) If dietary intake is inadequate ask your Pharmacist about a daily multi-vitamin and mineral supplement.

VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS

As it is often inflammation which initiates and sustains Autoimmune Disease, the focus should be on nutrients and herbs with an anti-inflammatory activity.
Common herbs such as ginger and turmeric have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity. Other herbs with significant systemic anti-inflammatory activity include liquorice, bupleurum falcatum, ginkgo biloba and feverfew. For herbal advice more specific to your condition ask your health care professional.
Nutrients with anti-inflammatory activity include the antioxidant nutrients, in particular Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, beta-carotene, selenium and the amino acids cysteine and methionine. Those nutrients often deficient in individuals with inflammatory disorders include zinc and most importantly, essential fatty acids (from evening primrose oil, cold-pressed linseed oil, fish oils). Regular consumption of yoghurt and a diet low in sugar and simple starches will help maintain normal bowel bacteria, very important for a healthy immune system.

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