Autoimmune Diseases List

If you suspect that you might be suffering from a disorder that is related to your immune system, it can be helpful to read through an extensive autoimmune diseases list, as there are over 80 different varieties. The immune system is what defends the body against infections and disease, through antibodies. Autoimmune conditions arise from the accidental attacking and destruction of healthy and normal body tissue.

1. Rheumatoid arthritis - Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that is characterized by joint inflammation. Apart from joint inflammation, the condition also leads to surrounding tissue inflammation as well. In general, rheumatoid arthritis affects the small joints of the feet and hands. The disease's long-term possibilities include deformity of the joints and wearing away of the bones.
2. Addison's disease - Addison's disease is an autoimmune disorder that results from the insufficient production of hormones by the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are organs that are situated directly above the kidneys. Some common symptoms of the condition includes weakness of the muscles, excessive cravings of salt, skin discoloration (the skin tends to get darker), lower appetite, loss of weight and joint and muscle aches.
3. Grave's disease - Grave's disease is an autoimmune condition that causes thyroid gland overactivity, which is also known as hyperthyroidism. The disease results from the mistaken attacking of the thyroid gland by the immune system, which ultimately leads to producing too much of thyroxine, which is a thyroid hormone. Some signs of the condition are heat sensitivity, finger and hand tremors, weight loss, irritability and anxiety.
4. Multiple sclerosis - Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the nervous system. The disease results from damage to the myelin sheath, which serves as protection for the nerve cells. This causes the nerve impulses to either halt or slow down significantly. The condition has the potential to be debilitating, and is particularly common in women.
5. Sjogren syndrome - Sjogren syndrome is a chronic disorder that involves the destruction of the saliva and tear glands. The autoimmune disease can have effects on many different areas of the body, such as the lungs and kidneys. Some signs of the disease are excessive dryness of the eyes and the mouth.