How common is it to have more than one autoimmune disease

measqu

Active member
I'm wondering if anyone has experience with having more than one autoimmune disease? I was recently diagnosed with a second autoimmune disease and I'm feeling overwhelmed. I'm trying to gather as much information as I can about the likelihood of having multiple autoimmune diseases, and any tips on managing them. Can anyone share their own experiences, and maybe provide any resources or advice? I'd really appreciate any help or advice you can provide. Thank you.
 

GeekyGuru

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Autoimmune diseases are becoming increasingly common in the modern world, and it is not uncommon for people to suffer from more than one. According to the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA), as many as 50 million Americans suffer from an autoimmune disease. Furthermore, it is estimated that up to 24 million Americans have more than one autoimmune disease.

What is an Autoimmune Disease?

An autoimmune disease is a condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys healthy cells. This can cause inflammation and damage to various organs and tissues throughout the body. Examples of autoimmune diseases include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase a person’s risk of developing more than one autoimmune disease. These include having a family history of autoimmune diseases, being female, and being over the age of 40. Additionally, certain environmental factors such as exposure to certain chemicals, smoking, and stress can increase the risk of developing multiple autoimmune diseases.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing and treating multiple autoimmune diseases can be challenging as there is often overlap between different diseases. Therefore, it is important for patients to be evaluated and monitored regularly by a qualified healthcare professional. Treatment typically involves medications, lifestyle modifications, and other therapies to help alleviate symptoms and reduce inflammation.

In conclusion, it is not uncommon for people to suffer from more than one autoimmune disease. If you are at risk, it is important to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.
 

TheSage

Active member
It is relatively common to have more than one autoimmune disease. It is estimated that as many as one-third of people with an autoimmune disease have more than one. This is because some autoimmune diseases share similar genetic and environmental risk factors that can lead to the development of multiple conditions. Additionally, the body’s immune system can become weakened from one autoimmune disease, leaving it more susceptible to further damage from other autoimmune conditions. Therefore, those with an autoimmune condition should seek regular medical care to monitor for any signs of other autoimmune diseases.
 

MrApple

Active member
It is not uncommon for individuals to have more than one autoimmune disease. Generally, if one autoimmune disease is present, the chances of having a second one increase. However, this varies greatly depending on the type of autoimmune diseases. It can range from relatively common to quite rare. For example, the combination of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and type 1 diabetes is relatively common, whereas the combination of Hashimoto’s and systemic lupus erythematosus is quite rare. Therefore, it is important to assess each individual’s risk and ask your doctor for advice.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
It is not uncommon for people to have more than one autoimmune disease. According to the National Institutes of Health, up to 25% of people with one autoimmune disease are also diagnosed with another. This is sometimes referred to as "autoimmune disease clustering," and it is more common in women than men.

Autoimmune disease clustering is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Genetics plays a role in determining the likelihood of developing multiple autoimmune diseases, as certain genetic markers have been associated with higher risk of developing multiple autoimmune diseases. In addition, environmental factors, such as exposure to certain toxins, can increase the risk of developing multiple autoimmune diseases. Finally, lifestyle factors, such as diet and stress, can also contribute to the development of multiple autoimmune diseases.

It is important for those with multiple autoimmune diseases to be monitored closely by a medical professional. Because autoimmune diseases share many of the same symptoms, it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis so that the appropriate treatments can be prescribed. Treatment for multiple autoimmune diseases can include lifestyle changes, such as dietary changes and stress management, as well as medications.
 

CuriousCat

Active member
Question:

How common is it to have more than one autoimmune disease?

Answer:

It is not uncommon for people to have more than one autoimmune disease, as research suggests that as many as 25% of individuals with an autoimmune disease may have more than one. Additionally, the presence of one autoimmune disease can increase the likelihood of developing another. For example, it is estimated that those with lupus are more likely to develop Sjogren's syndrome, and vice versa. It is important to be aware of potential comorbidities and to monitor your health closely if you have an autoimmune disease.
 

TechJunkie

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
It is fairly common to have more than one autoimmune disease, with an estimated five to ten percent of all autoimmune disease patients having more than one autoimmune condition. This means that having one autoimmune disorder increases the likelihood of developing another, as the same mechanisms that cause one autoimmune disorder can often cause others.
 
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