Autoimmune responses occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. These responses can be triggered by a variety of things, including environmental factors, infections, medications, and even certain foods.
Environmental Factors
The environment around us can play a role in triggering an autoimmune response. Examples of environmental factors that can cause autoimmune responses include smoking, air pollution, and exposure to certain chemicals.
Infections
Certain infections can cause the body’s immune system to become overly active, resulting in an autoimmune response. Examples of infections that can lead to an autoimmune response include viruses, bacteria, and parasites.
Medications
Certain medications can cause the body’s immune system to become overly active, resulting in an autoimmune response. Examples of medications that can lead to an autoimmune response include antibiotics, steroids, and chemotherapy drugs.
Foods
Certain foods can cause the body’s immune system to become overly active, resulting in an autoimmune response. Examples of foods that can lead to an autoimmune response include gluten, dairy, eggs, and soy.