DR. WALKER

About Autoimmune Disorders

What Are Autoimmune disorders?

An autoimmune disorder is a condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. The immune system normally helps protect the body against harmful substances, such as viruses and bacteria, but in autoimmune disorders, it becomes overactive and attacks the body's own cells, tissues, and organs. Some examples of autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes.

What Are the 10 Most Common Autoimmune Disorders?

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial lining of the joints, causing inflammation and damage to the joints and surrounding tissues.
RA typically affects the small joints of the hands, feet, and wrists, but can also affect larger joints such as the knees, hips, and shoulders. The condition can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, as well as fatigue and a general feeling of malaise.
The exact cause of RA is not well understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Women are more commonly affected by RA than men, and the condition is more common in people over the age of 40.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus)

Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can affect many different parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and lungs. Lupus occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, causing inflammation and damage.
The symptoms of lupus can vary widely from person to person, but may include joint pain and stiffness, skin rashes, fever, fatigue, and hair loss. Lupus can also cause more serious complications, such as kidney damage, heart and lung inflammation, and neurological problems. Women are more commonly affected than men, and the condition is more common in people of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the skin, causing red, scaly, and often itchy patches to develop. With psoriasis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the skin cells, causing them to grow and multiply too quickly.
The symptoms of psoriasis can vary widely from person to person, but may include red, scaly patches on the skin, itching, and skin that is dry and cracked. The condition can also cause joint pain and stiffness in some people, a condition known as psoriatic arthritis.
Psoriasis can be triggered or worsened by a variety of factors, including stress, infection, injury to the skin, and certain medications.

Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Multiple sclerosis occurs when the system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, which is the protective covering around nerve fibers, causing inflammation and damage.
The symptoms of MS can vary widely from person to person, but may include fatigue, muscle weakness, difficulty with coordination and balance, numbness or tingling in the limbs, and vision problems. The condition can also cause more serious complications, such as cognitive impairment, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and difficulty with speech and swallowing.
Women are more commonly affected than men, and the condition is more common in people of Northern European descent.

Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive system, causing inflammation and damage to the lining of the intestines. There are two main types of IBD: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, and can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. Ulcerative colitis primarily affects the colon and rectum, causing symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and urgency to have a bowel movement.
Smoking, stress, and certain medications may also contribute to the development and progression of the condition.

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. T1D is typically diagnosed in children and young adults, but can occur at any age.
Patients’ with T1D, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. As a result, people with T1D must take insulin injections or use an insulin pump to regulate their blood sugar levels and prevent complications.
The symptoms of T1D can include increased thirst and urination, fatigue, unexpected weight loss, blurred vision, and frequent infections. If left untreated, T1D can lead to serious complications, such as nerve damage, kidney disease, blindness, and heart disease.
There is no cure for T1D, but treatment typically involves a combination of insulin therapy, blood sugar monitoring, and lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. Ongoing medical care and close monitoring are important to prevent complications and ensure good health for people with T1D.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as autoimmune thyroiditis, is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. In Hashimoto's, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage.
The symptoms of Hashimoto's can vary widely from person to person, but may include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, joint pain, and muscle weakness. Some people with Hashimoto's may also develop an enlarged thyroid gland, called a goiter, or thyroid nodules.
Over time, Hashimoto's can lead to hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, dry skin, and depression.
Women are more commonly affected by Hashimoto's than men, and the condition is more common in people with a family history of thyroid disorders.

Sjögren's syndrome

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the glands that produce moisture in the body, such as the salivary and tear glands. The immune system mistakenly attacks and damages these glands in Sjögren's, leading to a reduction in the production of saliva and tears.
The symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome can vary widely from person to person but may include dry mouth, dry eyes, fatigue, joint pain, and dry skin. Some people with Sjögren's may also experience complications such as dental decay, eye infections, and difficulty swallowing.
Sjögren's syndrome can occur on its own or in combination with other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Celiac disease

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In people with celiac disease, the immune system attacks and damages the lining of the small intestine, leading to difficulty absorbing nutrients from food.
The symptoms of celiac disease can vary widely from person to person, but may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue, and weight loss. Some people with celiac disease may also experience skin rash, joint pain, and anemia.
Celiac disease is more common in people with a family history of the condition and in people with other autoimmune disorders.
The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet, which involves avoiding all foods and products that contain gluten. This can be challenging, as gluten can be found in many foods and products, including bread, pasta, and processed foods. A dietician can help people with celiac disease plan a healthy, gluten-free diet. In some cases, medication may also be used to manage symptoms and complications of celiac disease.

Vasculitis

Vasculitis is a group of rare autoimmune disorders that cause inflammation and damage to the blood vessels in the body. In patients with vasculitis, the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the walls of the blood vessels, which can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications.
The symptoms of vasculitis can vary widely depending on the type and severity of the condition, but may include fever, fatigue, weight loss, joint pain, skin rash, and nerve damage. Some types of vasculitis can also affect the organs, such as the lungs, kidneys, and brain.

What Are Common Causes of Autoimmune Disorders?

Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing autoimmune disorders, which means that they are more likely to develop the condition if someone in their family has it. However, not everyone with a genetic predisposition will develop an autoimmune disorder, which suggests that environmental triggers also play a role.
Environmental triggers that may contribute to the development of autoimmune disorders include infections, such as viruses and bacteria, exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, and chronic stress. These triggers can cause the immune system to become overactive and attack healthy cells and tissues.

Are Vaccines Associated with Autoimmune Disorders?

Some people may develop autoimmune disorders after receiving vaccines. In some cases, vaccines may trigger an autoimmune response in people who are already genetically predisposed to developing autoimmune disorders.
Some research has suggested a possible association between the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and Guillain-Barre syndrome. Similarly, some studies have suggested a possible link between the hepatitis B vaccine and autoimmune disorders.
Additionally, studies have suggested a possible link between the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine and autoimmune disorders. Several of these studies however have been retracted.

What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Leaky gut syndrome, also known as intestinal permeability, is a condition in which the lining of the small intestine becomes damaged, allowing undigested food particles, toxins, and bacteria to leak into the bloodstream. Normally, the cells lining the small intestine are tightly packed together, forming a barrier that allows only nutrients to pass through into the bloodstream. However, when this barrier becomes damaged, it can allow larger molecules to leak through, leading to inflammation and other health problems.
Causes of leaky gut syndrome includes a poor diet, chronic stress, infections, and certain medications. Some studies have suggested that leaky gut syndrome may be associated with a variety of health problems, including autoimmune diseases, food allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Symptoms of leaky gut syndrome can vary widely and may include digestive problems such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain, as well as fatigue, joint pain, skin problems, and mood disorders. Treatment typically involves identifying and addressing the underlying causes of the condition, such as improving diet, reducing stress, and avoiding certain medications.

Some Common Causes of Leaky Gut Syndrome:

There is still much debate about the existence and causes of leaky gut syndrome, but some lifestyle and dietary changes may help to support a healthy gut and reduce the risk of gut permeability. These include:
❖ Avoiding processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates, which can contribute to inflammation and gut permeability.

❖ Managing stress through techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and exercise.

❖ Getting regular exercise, which can help to support a healthy gut microbiome and reduce inflammation.

❖ Avoiding overuse of antibiotics and other medications that can disrupt the gut microbiome.

❖ Avoiding alcohol and drug abuse.

❖ Reducing exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides and heavy metals.

❖ Getting enough sleep, which is important for gut health and immune function.

❖ Managing chronic conditions such as IBD, which can increase the risk of gut permeability.

❖ Working with a healthcare provider to identify and manage any underlying medical conditions or hormone imbalances that may be a factor.

Are There Long-Term Complications of Leaky Gut Syndrome?

The concept of "leaky gut syndrome" is still a topic of debate among medical professionals. Some research suggests that intestinal permeability may be associated with certain health conditions or complications. Long term complications may include:
➢ Autoimmune diseases: Some studies suggest that increased intestinal permeability may be associated with autoimmune diseases such as celiac disease, type 1 diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.

➢ Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Some research has suggested that increased intestinal permeability may be a factor in the development and progression of IBD, which includes conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

➢ Food sensitivities: Increased intestinal permeability may allow undigested food particles to pass into the bloodstream, which can trigger an immune response and lead to food sensitivities or allergies.

➢ Chronic inflammation: Increased intestinal permeability may contribute to chronic inflammation, which has been linked to a variety of health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and metabolic syndrome.

➢ Mental health: Some studies suggest that increased intestinal permeability may be associated with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Are There Dietary Changes to Help Prevent Leaky Gut?

Some supplements may help to support a healthy gut microbiome and reduce inflammation, which are factors that have been implicated in gut permeability. Some of these supplements include:
✓ Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help to support a healthy gut microbiome. They may help to reduce inflammation and improve gut barrier function, which could potentially reduce the risk of gut permeability.

✓ Prebiotics: Prebiotics are dietary fibers that feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut and could reduce inflammation.

✓ Glutamine: Glutamine is an amino acid that is important for gut health and helps to support gut barrier function.

✓ Zinc: Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a role in immune function and gut health.

✓ Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for immune function, and there is some evidence to suggest that it may help to reduce inflammation.

TOP-10 FOODS to reduce in Leaky Gut Syndrome:

❖ Gluten - a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

❖ Dairy products - including milk, cheese, and yogurt.

❖ Sugar - including refined sugars and artificial sweeteners.

❖ Processed foods - including packaged snacks, chips, and baked goods.

❖ Alcohol - including beer, wine, and liquor.

❖ Soy - including soy milk, tofu, and soy sauce.

❖ Corn - including corn syrup and corn products.

❖ Nightshade vegetables - including tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, and eggplant.

❖ Nuts/Legumes - including beans, lentils, peanuts, cashews and chickpeas.

❖ Fried foods - including fried chicken, French fries, and onion rings.

References:

Autism (bu.edu)
Is Autism Now Disclosed as a DTaP Vaccine Side Effect? | Snopes.com
List of autoimmune diseases, with symptoms and treatments (medicalnewstoday.com)