Autoimmune Diseases Symptoms Checklist
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of an autoimmune disease, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible. You can also see a dietitian or nutritionist for further testing. These practitioners can help you identify food sensitivities and improve your digestive health. A specialist should be consulted if you have a more severe case. Your gut health is crucial in preventing autoimmune diseases, as 70% of our immune system is located in the intestines.
What tests confirm autoimmune disease?
The first step to confirm the diagnosis of autoimmune disease is to have blood tests done. These tests measure levels of antibodies that are normally made to attack foreign substances. However, in certain cases, these antibodies start attacking body tissues and lead to autoimmune diseases. These diseases affect connective tissues, such as joints, and can cause severe problems in everyday life. Several blood tests can be done to determine whether a patient is suffering from an autoimmune disease.
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) testing is one of the most common tests to diagnose autoimmune disease. This test checks for antibodies that attack cells’ nuclei. If these antibodies are present in high levels, then the patient has an autoimmune disease.
What triggers an autoimmune disease?
Though the precise trigger of an autoimmune disease is not known, scientists have discovered several factors that are associated with an increased risk of developing the condition. These factors include genetics, exposure to bacteria and viruses, and environmental factors. Age, sex, and personal medical history can also influence the risk of developing an autoimmune disease. Most cases of autoimmune thyroid disease occur between the ages of 40 and 60. A family history of the disease is also linked to increased risk.
Some autoimmune diseases run in families. Some people are more susceptible to developing the disorder if they have a family member with it. Others are more likely to develop an autoimmune disease if they have a specific gene mutation.
What are the markers for autoimmune disease?
Inflammatory markers are proteins found in the blood that are produced in response to inflammation. These proteins include immunoglobulin G (IgG) and antinuclear antibodies (ANA). Elevated levels of these markers do not necessarily indicate the presence of an autoimmune disease. However, they do point to the presence of a related infection or malignancy.
If you suspect that you have an autoimmune disorder, you should consult your healthcare provider. They can perform laboratory tests, which can help determine whether you have the disease. You may also be referred to a specialist. Once the diagnosis is made, treatment can begin. However, until these tests are available, you may not be aware of your symptoms.
The first step in the diagnosis of autoimmune disease is to determine whether you have antibodies to certain proteins. The antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is one of the most common tests used to confirm this diagnosis. This test screens for antibodies that attack healthy proteins in the cell nucleus.
