Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and organs. They are responsible for a range of medical conditions and can be very serious, even life-threatening in some cases. While all autoimmune diseases are serious, some are more severe than others. The following is a look at the deadliest autoimmune disease:
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects multiple organs and tissues in the body. Symptoms of SLE include joint pain, skin rashes, fatigue, and fever. It can also cause inflammation in the heart, lungs, kidneys, and brain. SLE is a potentially fatal illness, and it is estimated that it kills up to 50,000 Americans each year.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system. Symptoms of MS include numbness, fatigue, and difficulty with balance and coordination. In some cases, it can lead to paralysis. MS is also a potentially fatal disease, and it is estimated that it kills around 11,000 Americans each year.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's own immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without enough insulin, the body is unable to properly process sugar, leading to high blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes is a life-threatening condition, and it is estimated that it kills around 5,000 Americans each year.
Graves’ Disease
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Symptoms of Graves’ disease include fatigue, weight loss, and an enlarged thyroid. It is a potentially fatal condition, and it is estimated that it kills around 1,000 Americans each year.
Autoimmune diseases can be serious and even life-threatening, and it is important to seek medical treatment if you suspect you may be suffering from one. While some autoimmune diseases are more severe than others, the deadliest ones are systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), type 1 diabetes, and Graves’ disease.