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RISING WOMEN EXPERT
ADVICE...
What are “autoimmune diseases”?
Autoimmune diseases arise from an overactive immune response of the body
against substances and tissues normally present in the body. In other words,
the immune system mistakes some part of the body as a pathogen and attacks
its own cells.
There are more than 80 illnesses caused by autoimmunity. Overall, autoimmune
diseases are common, affecting more than 23.5 million Americans, which are
often chronic, debilitating and life-threatening. It has been estimated that
autoimmune diseases are among the two leading causes of death among women in
all age groups.
Symptoms of autoimmune disease vary depending on the disease as well as the
person’s immune system. Common symptoms include inflammation, fatigue,
dizziness, elevated fever and high body temperature, plus extreme
sensitivity to cold in the hands and feet. This can also include weakness
and stiffness in muscles/joints, weight changes, digestive or
gastrointestinal problems, low or high blood pressure, irritability, anxiety
and/or depression. Infertility, reduced sex drive and blood sugar changes
are also common, and depending on the type of autoimmune disease, an
increase in the size of an organ or tissue, or the destruction of an organ
or tissue can result. Certain events or environmental exposures may cause
some autoimmune diseases, or make them worse. Sunlight, chemicals called
“solvents”, and viral and bacterial infections are linked to many autoimmune
diseases.
If you are living with an autoimmune disease, there are things you can do
each day to feel better. Autoimmune diseases are often associated with food
allergies and abnormal bowel permeability, linking them closely to diet and
lifestyle. Certain fats (processed vegetable oils, in particular) stimulate
the formation of inflammatory chemicals, while others (the omega-3 fatty
acids found in cold-water fish and flaxseed) actually reduce inflammation.
The immune system needs a strong nutritional foundation over a long period
of time to combat autoimmune diseases.
Rest allows your body tissues and joints the time they need to repair.
Sleeping is a great way you can help both your body and mind. If you don’t
get enough sleep, your stress levels and your symptoms could get worse.
Stress and anxiety can trigger symptoms to flare up, so finding ways to
simplify your life and cope with daily stressors will help you to feel your
best. Meditation, self-hypnosis and guided imagery, are simple relaxation
techniques that might help you to reduce stress, lessen your pain, and deal
with other aspects of living with your disease.
Kimberly Mast, owner of Essential Energetics, specializes in
Bio-Feedback. To learn more about the benefits of this health
assessment/treatment, call at 403.818.3978. |
