Inflammatory Autoimmune Conditions

Inflammatory autoimmune conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. These conditions can affect various organs and systems, causing pain, dysfunction, and long-term complications.

Causes of Autoimmune Inflammation

While the exact cause is unknown, autoimmune diseases are believed to develop due to a combination of:

  • Genetics: A family history of autoimmune disorders increases the risk.

  • Environmental Triggers: Infections, toxins, or stress can activate an immune response.

  • Hormonal Factors: Some conditions are more common in women, suggesting a hormonal influence.

  • Lifestyle and Diet: Poor gut health, chronic stress, and high inflammatory diets may contribute.

Common Inflammatory Autoimmune Conditions

Musculoskeletal & Joint Disorders:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Causes painful, swollen joints due to immune attacks on the synovium (joint lining).

  • Ankylosing Spondylitis: Affects the spine, causing stiffness and pain due to inflammation of the vertebrae.

Digestive Disorders:

  • Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis: Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to pain, diarrhea, and malabsorption.

Skin Conditions:

  • Psoriasis: An overactive immune response causes rapid skin cell growth, leading to scaly, inflamed patches.

  • Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, SLE): Can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, and heart, causing widespread inflammation.

Neurological Disorders:

  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS): The immune system attacks the protective covering of nerves (myelin), leading to nerve damage and impaired function.

Endocrine & Organ-Specific Conditions:

  • Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Immune attacks on the thyroid lead to hypothyroidism (low thyroid function).

  • Type 1 Diabetes: The immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, affecting blood sugar regulation.

Blood & Systemic Disorders:

  • Vasculitis: Inflammation of blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow and organ damage.

  • Sjogren’s Syndrome: Immune cells attack moisture-producing glands, causing dry eyes and mouth.

Symptoms of Autoimmune Inflammation

  • Chronic pain and stiffness in joints and muscles

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Skin rashes or lesions

  • Digestive issues (bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain)

  • Brain fog, memory problems, or mood disturbances

Management & Treatment Approaches

While autoimmune diseases are generally not curable, inflammation can be controlled through:

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Anti-inflammatory diets, stress reduction, and regular movement.

  • Chiropractic & Physical Therapy: Helps manage pain and improve mobility.

  • Gut Health Optimisation: Addressing leaky gut and improving microbiome balance.

Early diagnosis and proactive management can help reduce flare-ups, prevent complications, and improve quality of life for those with autoimmune inflammatory conditions. Consult with our friendly Chiropractors or Nutritionist.