The simplest way to explain an autoimmune disease is when the body’s immune system malfunctions and attacks healthy cells for no apparent reason. This reaction is known as an autoimmune response, and its progression can lead to numerous chronic diseases affecting individuals of all ages, including infants, at any given time. Most disorders exhibit a myriad of symptoms, but there are a few key silent signs that also indicate active progression.

Commonly diagnosed autoimmune diseases
Myasthenia Gravis is a neuromuscular autoimmune disease that affects the skeletal muscles, resulting in muscle weakness, droopy expression, impaired speech, blurry vision, and even shortness of breath. People are also at equal risk of developing celiac disease, multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and Addison’s disease, among other conditions.

4 silent signs of autoimmune diseases
Note that these symptoms can develop in any order and exhibit varying levels of severity.

Muscle pain and joint problems
The pain and tendency to get hurt can develop in a unique pattern that may indicate the presence of autoimmune responses. Aches, stiffness, and muscle tightness can migrate from one point to various body parts. This migration makes it tough for doctors to diagnose the source of the pain and inflammation.

Persistent fatigue and resulting confusion
Constant fatigue is a distinctive red sign to look out for. It is worsened by vitamin and nutritional deficiencies, increasing tiredness and fatigue and leading to poor sleep quality. Lack of rest can further induce brain fog (confusion) and the exhaustion continues to set in without a break. Prolonging these symptoms can result in serious autoimmune complications.

Nerve damage
Shooting pains in the arms and legs, experiencing a tingling sensation at the extremities, or increased sensitivity to touch are all progressive indicators of nerve damage linked to autoimmune diseases. People also experience muscle loss and muscle weakness as a result and are forced to limit their physical activity due to underlying fatigue. This nerve damage, known as neuropathy, can lead to dizziness, poor coordination, and vertigo symptoms.

Fever and gut problems
The body rapidly increases its core temperature to combat infections and allergic reactions. Fever is also one of the silent indicators of developing autoimmune disorders. If a fever develops without any common underlying causes, immediate attention from a healthcare professional is advisable. Gut problems, specifically acid reflux, bloating, and cramps, are usually common signs of autoimmune diseases.

Suggested nutrition to manage autoimmune diseases
A majority of the foods to help tackle autoimmune diseases must contain anti-inflammatory compounds. These can be gotten from fish, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, legumes, and assorted nuts and seeds. Certain vegetables are also a rich source of antioxidants and healthy omega 3s to help repair and maintain healthy cell integrity. It is advisable to consult with a nutritionist to discuss the best food plans. Plus, eliminating certain gluten, dairy, and poultry products, that may trigger inflammation, will help improve the autoimmune responses. Note that the list of foods to include or exclude will vary depending on the condition.