Immune system diseases are conditions that affect the body's ability to defend itself from infection and other foreign invaders. These conditions can range from mild to severe and can affect any part of the body.
The most common immune system diseases include asthma, allergies, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Asthma is an inflammatory disorder of the airways that causes wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to certain allergens, such as pollen, dust, and food. Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue, leading to inflammation and damage to the skin, joints, and other organs. IBD is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea. MS is an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system, leading to vision problems, muscle weakness, and fatigue. RA is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and damage to the joints, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness.
There are also more rare immune system diseases, such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), and immune deficiency disorders. ITP is a disorder in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys platelets, leading to excessive bruising and bleeding. GBS is a disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system, resulting in muscle weakness and paralysis. Immune deficiency disorders occur when the body is unable to develop or properly maintain an immune response to infection and other foreign invaders, leaving the body vulnerable to disease.
The treatment of immune system diseases depends on the specific condition, but may include medications, such as corticosteroids, biologics, and immunomodulators, as well as lifestyle modifications. In addition, patients may need to have regular follow-up visits with their healthcare provider to monitor their condition and ensure that they are responding well to treatment.