Understanding Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system, our body’s natural defense against infection, mistakenly attacks healthy cells, tissues, or organs. Normally, the immune system identifies and destroys harmful invaders like bacteria and viruses, but autoimmune conditions can cause the body to have trouble distinguishing between foreign threats and its own systems.
This internal misfire can lead to widespread inflammation, tissue damage, and a range of symptoms that vary depending on the condition. Common signs include chronic fatigue, joint or muscle pain, low-grade fever, and general weakness. Over time, untreated autoimmune activity can compromise the health of vital organs and disrupt daily life.
There are over 80 known autoimmune diseases, each affecting the body in unique ways. Some of the most well-known include:
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Rheumatoid arthritis – inflammation of the joints
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Lupus – multi-system inflammation
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Multiple sclerosis (MS) – immune attack on nerve coverings
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Type 1 diabetes – destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas
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Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – immune damage to the thyroid gland
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Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis – Inflammatory bowel diseases
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Psoriasis – chronic skin inflammation and scaling
It’s important to note that autoimmune disorders are often complex to diagnose. Symptoms can overlap with many other conditions, and their severity can vary from person to person. Early diagnosis and targeted testing are critical for managing disease progression and improving quality of life.
How Lab Testing Can Help
DirectLabs® offers a variety of lab tests that can assist in identifying autoimmune activity, guiding both diagnosis and management. These may include:
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Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Panel – screens for autoimmune activity
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Rheumatoid Factor (RF) and Anti-CCP – used in diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis
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Thyroid Antibody Tests – for Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease
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C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Sedimentation Rate (ESR) – measure inflammation
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Vitamin D and B12 – often deficient in autoimmune conditions
Whether you’re monitoring symptoms or seeking clarity, these tests can provide a crucial first step toward understanding what’s going on inside your body.
Take charge of your health and explore testing options that support clarity and early intervention.
