What Triggers Autoimmune Disorders?

Our immune systems are pretty amazing! They protect our bodies from any harmful, foregin substances such as bacteria, viruses, cancer cells and toxicants that the body recognizes as an antigen. These antigens trigger the production of antibodies that help fight and destroy infectious agents invading the body. However, for someone with an autoimmune disorder, their immune cells do not distinguish between antigens and healthy cells and instead destroy both. This can cause damage and destruction of tissues, altered organ growth or altered organ function.

What Causes Autoimmune Disorders?

There are over 80 different autoimmune disorders and many share similar symptoms, making them difficult to diagnose. The most common symptom among them is inflammation, the reaction of body tissues to injury or disease. Some of the most common autoimmune disorders include Diabetes (Type 1), Graves Disease, Psoriasis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, Multiple Sclerosis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

What Triggers Autoimmune Disorders?

Autoimmune disorders can be triggered by a number of factors including bacteria, viruses, drugs, chemical irritants, environmental toxicants, allergies, food sensitivities and emotional stressors.

This is a pretty broad range of triggers, which is why autoimmune disorders can be so difficult to correctly diagnose and treat. The cause of autoimmune disorders is unknown, but evaluating the triggers of the disease helps keep the disorder under control.

How Can Autoimmune Disorders Be Treated?

There is no known cure for autoimmune disorders but there are various ways to manage and ultimately beat the disorder. The goal of any treatment should be to reduce symptoms, control the autoimmune process and maintain the body’s ability to fight disease. With a naturopathic approach, we will focus on the individual patient and their body’s reaction to exposed triggers, food sensitivities, lifestyle habits and environmental toxicants.

What Are the Next Steps?

Dr. Cutler will discuss treatment options with you during your initial consultation. When he creates a treatment plan, he focuses on treating the entire body and tailoring everything directly to the patient’s needs. Every individual will have their own specific needs to address their health complaints. He will run tests and work with you to prescribe a treatment plan to help you manage your health.

Start Managing Your Autoimmune Disorders!

Call us today at (248) 663-0165 to book an appointment with Dr. Cutler!‍

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