The 5 Most Common Autoimmune Diseases: Symptoms and Tips for Feeling Better

Autoimmune diseases are like our body turning against itself. I live with one, like many of us, and on this blog, I love sharing what I learn. Today, we’re chatting about the five most common autoimmune diseases, how many people they affect (mostly in Western countries, where they’re more often diagnosed), and some ideas for feeling better by finding what works for us.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Understanding Its Effects

Rheumatoid arthritis attacks our joints, causing pain and inflammation. About 40 to 80 million people, especially women (three times more than men) are affected.

Common symptoms:

• Symmetrical joint pain (hands, wrists).

• Morning stiffness that lingers.

• Chronic fatigue.

  
  

  Tips to try: Eating anti-inflammatory foods, like green veggies or flaxseeds, seems to help many people. Gentle activities, like yoga or walking, can keep us moving, depending on our energy. Taking a moment to relax, maybe with light meditation, sometimes makes a difference.

  
  

Lupus: An Unpredictable Disease

Systemic lupus erythematosus can affect our skin, joints, kidneys, or brain. About 8 million people are impacted, mostly women (nine times more than men).

Common symptoms:

• "Wolf mask" rashes on the face.

• Intense fatigue and fever.

• Joint pain.

  
  

  Tips to try: Using sunscreen or wearing protective clothing can sometimes reduce flare-ups triggered by the sun. Connecting with a support community, online or in person, reminds us we’re not alone. Things like acupuncture appeal to some for a bit of comfort.

  
  

Multiple Sclerosis: Living with Its Challenges

Multiple sclerosis (MS) disrupts our central nervous system, making coordination trickier. About 8 to 16 million people are affected, especially young adults, with more women.

Common symptoms:

• Tingling or numbness.

• Vision issues (blurry or double vision).

• Fatigue and balance problems.

  
  

  Tips to try: Tailored exercises, like those from MS Gym, help many stay mobile and balanced Check out our MS Gym article. Food-wise, an anti-inflammatory diet with veggies, fatty fish, or nuts can give us a boost, especially by avoiding triggers like dairy. Taking relaxing breaks, with music or mindful breathing, can sometimes calm things down.

  
  

Crohn’s Disease: Managing Inflammation

Crohn’s disease puts our digestive system through the wringer, with pain. About 24 million people in Western countries are affected, often younger folks.

Common symptoms:

• Abdominal pain and diarrhea.

• Fatigue and weight loss.

• Nutrient deficiencies.

  
  

  Tips to try: Keeping a food journal can help us spot triggers, like lactose. Staying hydrated is often key. Meditation or a good chat with a friend can offer some emotional support.

  
  

Psoriasis: Caring for Our Skin

Psoriasis causes red, scaly patches, sometimes with psoriatic arthritis (30% of cases). About 160 to 240 million people are affected.

Common symptoms:

• Red patches with silvery scales.

• Itching or burning.

• Joint pain (if arthritis is present).

  
  

  Tips to try: Natural creams, like aloe vera, soothe the skin for many. An oatmeal bath can ease itching. Relaxing activities, like yoga, seem to reduce stress, which can worsen symptoms.

  
  

Living with an Autoimmune Disease: Finding Our Rhythm

Living with an autoimmune disease is a personal journey. Here are some ideas that resonate with many of us:

Eating Mindfully

A Mediterranean diet, with olive oil and veggies, feels good for some. Testing what works for us is a solid start.

Moving Gently

Walking or stretching, at our own pace, can lift our mobility and mood.

Recharging

Quiet moments, like deep breathing or journaling, help some of us manage stress.

Complementary Approaches

Naturopathy or osteopathy piques the interest of some of us. A practitioner can guide us.

An autoimmune disease is a challenge, but it doesn’t define us. By listening to our body and trying what feels good, we can find a balance that suits us. What tips help you day-to-day? Share in the comments or join our community!