Autoimmune Conditions

Addison's disease, or primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare chronic condition in which the adrenal glands fail to produce enough cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones are vital for maintaining various bodily functions, such as stress response, blood pressure regulation, and electrolyte balance. The most common cause of Addison's disease is an autoimmune response that damages the adrenal glands. This leads to reduced hormone production.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and potential joint damage. It occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial membrane lining the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to significant disability and reduced quality of life if left untreated.

Pernicious anaemia is an autoimmune disorder that hinders the body's ability to absorb vitamin B12, leading to a deficiency. It is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein necessary for B12 absorption, resulting in decreased red blood cell production. Symptoms may develop slowly and worsen over time, requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the inner lining of the large intestine (colon). It is characterised by periods of symptom flare-ups followed by periods of remission. The exact cause of UC is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, immune, environmental, and microbial factors.

Dermatomyositis is a rare inflammatory condition that affects the muscles and skin, causing weakness and a distinctive rash. It is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. While the exact cause is unknown, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Graves disease is an autoimmune disorder that leads to an overactive thyroid gland, causing symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and eye problems. It is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism and is triggered by antibodies that stimulate the thyroid to overproduce hormones. Treatment options include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery.

Reactive arthritis is an inflammatory condition that develops in response to certain bacterial infections, particularly those affecting the genitourinary or gastrointestinal systems. It is characterised by joint pain and swelling, typically in the knees, ankles, and feet, and can also involve the eyes, skin, and urethra. While not contagious, reactive arthritis can be triggered by sexually transmitted infections or foodborne bacteria.

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the gastrointestinal tract, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. It can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, but most commonly affects the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine. The exact cause of Crohn's disease is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors.

Coeliac disease sprue is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine in genetically predisposed individuals who develop an intolerance to gluten. When individuals with coeliac disease consume gluten, their immune system reacts by damaging the lining of the small intestine, leading to malnutrition and various symptoms. The primary treatment for coeliac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet.

Hashimoto thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body's immune system to attack the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage. This results in the thyroid gland being unable to produce sufficient thyroid hormones, causing hypothyroidism. Hashimoto thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in developed countries.