Key Symptoms of an Autoimmune Condition: What to Watch Out For

Autoimmune conditions are a group of disorders where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, tissues, and organs.

These conditions can affect almost any part of the body, and the symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific autoimmune disease. However, there are some common signs that might point to an autoimmune condition, regardless of which type you may be dealing with.

Below are some key signs and symptoms that we often see in clinic with clients presenting with autoimmune conditions:

Chronic Fatigue

One of the most common and persistent symptoms of autoimmune conditions is unexplained fatigue. This type of tiredness isn’t alleviated by rest and can make it difficult to complete daily tasks or maintain a normal routine. Fatigue can often feel overwhelming and may be accompanied by muscle weakness, both of which are common in conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis (MS).

Joint Pain and Swelling

Joint pain is a hallmark of several autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. You may experience persistent joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, particularly in the hands, wrists, knees, or fingers. These symptoms can worsen after periods of inactivity (like waking up in the morning) and can vary in intensity.

Unexplained Skin Changes

Autoimmune conditions can also affect your skin, leading to a variety of rashes, discoloration, or lesions. For example, in lupus, a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose is a telltale sign. Other autoimmune disorders like psoriasis can cause red, scaly patches on the skin. If you notice skin changes that seem unusual or persistent, this could be a red flag.

Digestive Issues

Gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach cramps are often reported by individuals with autoimmune conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis. These digestive issues can be persistent and may not respond well to typical treatments for common digestive problems.

Frequent Infections

Since autoimmune diseases often impair the immune system, individuals may find themselves more susceptible to infections. This might include frequent colds, sinus infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or respiratory infections. Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can also lead to a weakened immune response, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

Hair Loss

Unexpected or excessive hair loss is a common symptom of several autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and alopecia areata. This can manifest as thinning hair, bald patches, or overall hair shedding. While hair loss can be due to many factors, autoimmune-related hair loss is often accompanied by other signs of illness, like fatigue or skin changes.

Fever

Low-grade fevers that come and go are another potential indicator of an autoimmune disease. This fever is often unexplained and doesn’t necessarily coincide with other typical signs of illness, like a cold or the flu. If you’re experiencing fever without an obvious cause, it could be related to inflammation caused by an autoimmune condition.

Numbness and Tingling

In conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), autoimmune disorders can impact the nervous system, causing symptoms like numbness, tingling, or even weakness in the limbs. This can happen suddenly and may affect one side of the body more than the other. It’s a sign that something may be wrong with the nervous system and requires immediate attention.

Brain Fog

Many people with autoimmune diseases report feeling mentally cloudy, a symptom commonly referred to as "brain fog." This includes difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and a general sense of mental fatigue. Brain fog is often associated with autoimmune diseases like lupus and MS, but it can also appear in people with chronic inflammatory conditions.

Swollen Glands

Autoimmune diseases can also affect the lymphatic system, leading to swollen lymph nodes or glands. If you notice that your neck, armpits, or groin feel tender and swollen, it may be due to an immune system response triggered by an autoimmune condition.

In summary, autoimmune diseases are complex and can present with a variety of symptoms that may be confused with other health issues. The key to managing an autoimmune condition is early detection, so if you notice persistent, unexplained symptoms, be proactive and seek professional advice. By understanding the symptoms and understanding when to seek help, you can get the treatment and support you need to manage your health.

Our Senior Naturopath Naomi Rogan is our in-house autoimmune guru, so if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms book in for a complementary discovery call today to get started.