Autoimmune diseases

Overview

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and damage. More than 80 autoimmune disorders have been identified, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, psoriasis, type 1 diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease^[1]. 

Symptoms vary widely depending on the organs involved but can include fatigue, joint pain, rashes, digestive issues, brain fog, and sensitivity to stress. Many autoimmune diseases follow a pattern of flare-ups and remissions influenced by environmental, dietary, hormonal and emotional factors^[2].

While medical treatment (such as immunosuppressants or biologic therapy) may need to be part of the treatmentl, many people find that Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Healthcare (TCIH) approaches help reduce inflammation, balance the nervous system, and improve quality of life when used alongside conventional care^[3][4].

Common Causes and Contributing Factors

The precise causes of autoimmune conditions remain complex, but evidence highlights several interacting factors: 2,3

• Genetic predisposition – family history increases risk
• Environmental triggers – infections, toxins, and stress
• Gut dysbiosis and permeability – imbalance in microbiome linked to systemic inflammation
• Nutritional deficiencies – particularly vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids 5
• Hormonal and emotional stress – strong modulators of immune response 6

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms vary by condition but may include:

• Persistent fatigue or low energy
• Joint pain, swelling or stiffness
• Digestive issues, bloating, or food sensitivities
• Brain fog, mood swings or anxiety
• Rashes, dry eyes or mouth, or sensitivity to cold/heat
• Periods of inflammation (flare-ups) alternating with remission

Holistic and TCIH Approaches

Holistic management aims to address underlying inflammation, support detoxification, and regulate the immune-nervous system connection. Always work in collaboration with your primary healthcare provider before changing medication or supplements^[3][4].

You may wish to explore:

• Nutrition Consultation – anti-inflammatory and elimination diets can identify triggers and promote gut healing^[5].
• Naturopathy – uses dietary, herbal, and lifestyle interventions to support immune modulation.
• Herbal Medicine – herbs such as turmeric, ashwagandha, and green tea polyphenols show promise in modulating immune activity^[5].
• Yoga / Meditation / Mindfulness – evidence shows benefits for reducing stress, fatigue, and inflammation markers^[3][4][6][7].
• Acupuncture – helps balance immune function, reduce pain, and improve sleep quality^[8].
• Energy Healing / Reiki – supports emotional balance and parasympathetic regulation.

Self-Care and Lifestyle Practices

• Prioritise anti-inflammatory foods (leafy greens, omega-3 rich fish, turmeric, olive oil)
• Practise gentle movement such as yoga or tai chi to improve flexibility and reduce stress^[3][4]
• Maintain a consistent sleep routine to support repair and immune balance
• Use mindfulness and breathing techniques to manage emotional stress^[6][7]
• Limit exposure to toxins (household chemicals, smoking, processed foods)
• Cultivate a supportive community to reduce isolation and foster resiliency

When to Seek Professional Support

Seek medical advice if you experience sudden flare-ups, unexplained pain, or new systemic symptoms.
Working with an integrative practitioner who understands both biomedical treatment and holistic approaches can help you balance immune regulation, reduce inflammation, and regain vitality^[2][3][5].