Autoimmune diseases can be incredibly serious and can, in some cases, lead to death. Some autoimmune diseases that can potentially lead to death include systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus), rheumatoid arthritis, primary Sjogren’s syndrome, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, pemphigus, autoimmune hepatitis, celiac disease, and Grave’s disease.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, lungs, and/or other organs. SLE can cause inflammation, flares, and tissue damage, leading to organ failure.
In severe cases, this can be fatal.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks its own healthy tissue, specifically the joints. If untreated, the continued damage and destruction can cause organs to fail and lead to death.
Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects the body’s moisture-producing glands (e.g. salivary and lacrimal glands). If untreated, complications can arise that are potentially life-threatening, such as severe dehydration, pneumonia, bleeding, and infection.
Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable, autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). If left untreated, complications can arise such as swelling of the brain, seizures, and even death.
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the nerve channels to the muscles and can cause gradual weakening of the muscles, leading to paralysis and respiratory failure if left untreated.
Pemphigus is an autoimmune disorder of the skin that causes blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. If left untreated, it can lead to dehydration and infection, both of which can lead to death.
Autoimmune hepatitis is an autoimmune disorder of the liver that can cause inflammation and damage to the liver. If left untreated, it can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and potentially death.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder of the small intestine that causes damage to its lining when gluten is ingested. If left untreated, this can lead to malabsorption of vitamins and minerals, leading to anemia, osteoporosis, and potentially intestinal failure and death.
Grave’s disease is an autoimmune disorder of the thyroid gland. It can cause the heart to beat rapidly and can cause an increase in blood pressure, leading to heart failure and death.
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What is the most life threatening autoimmune disease?
The most life threatening autoimmune disease is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) due to the number of complications that it can cause in the body. SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks its own tissues and organs.
This can cause inflammation and damage to a variety of body systems, including the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs. People with SLE have an increased risk of infection, cardiovascular disease, and organ damage due to inflammation in these areas.
They may also develop lupus nephritis, which is a serious kidney complication that can lead to kidney failure. SLE is a potentially serious and even life-threatening condition, so it is important to receive fast, appropriate treatment to manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of complications.
What is a rare autoimmune disease that attacks organs?
A rare autoimmune disease that attacks organs is called Autoimmune Polyendocrinopathy-Candidiasis-Ectodermal Dystrophy (APECED) Syndrome. This condition occurs when the immune system, which normally defends against invading organisms, turns on the body’s own tissues and organs.
Specifically, APECED attacks the endocrine glands as well as certain parts of the skin and sweat glands. This can lead to chronic fatigue, joint pain and swelling, anemia, and skin problems such as rashes and hair loss.
Other possible symptoms include low levels of sex hormones and glucose intolerance. So treatment typically focuses on alleviating symptoms and controlling the disease with medications. People living with APECED should also stay away from diseases or infections that can exacerbate this condition.
What are the 3 early warning signs of kidney disease?
The three early warning signs of kidney disease include:
1. Changes in the amount of urine, such as an increase in frequency, darker in color, or changes in odor.
2. Swelling in the feet, ankles, and/or face.
3. Easily fatigued and/or lack of energy.
It is important to note that any changes in these symptoms should be discussed with a doctor as they may be early warning signs of kidney disease. Other warning signs of kidney disease include blood in the urine, difficulty sleeping, and a change in appetite.
It is important to check with a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms so that any issues can be addressed promptly.
What are 5 common symptoms of an autoimmune disorder?
The five common symptoms of an autoimmune disorder vary depending on the type of disorder and its severity, but generally include inflammation, fatigue, joint and muscle aches, skin rashes, and digestive issues.
1. Inflammation: This is often seen in the form of swelling in specific areas of the body, usually accompanied by pain and stiffness.
2. Fatigue: This can range from general tiredness to extreme exhaustion and is often experienced even after normal resting periods.
3. Joint and muscle aches: Symptoms can range from minor annoyances to extreme pain, depending on the type of disorder and its severity.
4. Skin rashes: This can vary by condition, but often includes patches of red, itchy skin.
5. Digestive issues: Many people with autoimmune disorders experience abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and changes in appetite and bowel movements.
Do autoimmune diseases get worse with age?
Yes, autoimmune diseases generally become worse with age. Autoimmune diseases usually start with mild or modest symptoms, but can progress over time. This progression can be gradual and can involve changes in the severity, frequency, and progression of symptoms.
Age-related wear and tear can also lead to a further deterioration in the condition. For example, people with rheumatoid arthritis may find that they are more prone to joint damage as they age. Similarly, people with multiple sclerosis may find that their symptoms progress more quickly as they get older.
Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures and see a doctor regularly when living with an autoimmune condition. By monitoring symptoms, ensuring good nutrition and taking any medication prescribed by your doctor, you can help manage your condition, even as it progresses.
What happens if an autoimmune disease is left untreated?
If an autoimmune disease is left untreated, it can lead to a wide range of complications. Depending on the autoimmune disorder, a person may experience organ damage, fatigue, and skin problems. Over time, the disease could lead to serious tissue damage, scarring, and even organ failure.
It might also require amputation due to nerve or muscle damage. Furthermore, an untreated autoimmune disorder can cause long-term, systemic inflammation, leading to secondary conditions like heart disease, stroke, and various cancers.
Additionally, complications from the autoimmune disorder can lead to serious infections in the person’s joints, skin, lungs, and other organs. Finally, an untreated autoimmune disorder can cause extreme emotional strain, as a person is likely to experience pain, social isolation, and the inability to perform activities that they once enjoyed.
As such, it is important to receive appropriate medical care and treatment to manage an autoimmune disorder to prevent these potential future complications.
