The immune system is normally responsible for attacking invading bacteria and viruses to protect us.
In autoimmune diseases, this system makes a mistake and attacks the body’s own healthy tissues.
Internists play a major role in the early diagnosis and management of many systemic autoimmune diseases.
Rheumatoid arthritis is one such disease that causes severe inflammation, pain, and swelling in various joints of the body.
Lupus is also a complex autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, and even the brain.
Persistent fatigue, unexplained fevers, and joint pain are common symptoms in many autoimmune diseases.
Diagnosing these diseases requires specialized blood tests and careful clinical evaluation due to overlapping symptoms with other conditions.
There is no definitive cure for these diseases, but the main goal of modern medicine is to suppress inflammation and prevent tissue damage.
Immunosuppressants and corticosteroids are often prescribed to control the flare-ups of these conditions.
Close cooperation between the patient, internist, and rheumatologist is vital to maintaining the patient’s quality of life.