Combating Auto Immune Disorders – Learn about Common Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Among the body’s many complex systems is the immune system, which is designed to fight against bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances containing harmful molecules, called “antigens.” However, when the immune system fails to distinguish between antigens and healthy tissue, the body can begin to attack healthy tissue leading to an increased risk of infection. This condition is known as an “auto immune disorder.” Although scientists still do not know the exact cause of auto immune disorders, many of them have been linked to a number of common vaccinations.

What Causes Auto Immune Disorders?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “[t]he exact cause of autoimmune disorders is unknown.” Some researchers have theorized that bacteria and viruses containing antigens may actually disrupt the immune system, leading to auto immune disorders. In addition, certain individuals may have genetic predispositions that make them more likely to experience auto immune disorders when they become infected.

In some studies, researchers have also found evidence to suggest that some auto immune disorders may be caused by certain types of vaccinations.

What Are the Symptoms of an Auto Immune Disorder?

There are more than 80 types of auto immune disorders, and the symptoms can vary in both type and severity from one disorder to the next. However, NIH notes that some of the more-common symptoms among auto immune disorders include:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Inflammation
• Generally feeling ill
• Joint pain
• Rash
• Redness
• Swelling
• Warm skin

While most auto immune diseases are chronic, symptoms can generally be managed with proper care. For many individuals, the most dangerous risks associated with auto immune disorders are actually those related to the medications used for treatment. In particular, medications that suppress the immune system can lead to an increased risk of infection.

How Do Doctors Treat Auto Immune Disorders?

Treatment for auto immune disorders focuses on symptom management. Common forms of treatment include:

• Blood transfusions
• Immunosuppressive medications, including both corticosteroids and non-steroid drugs
• Physical therapy to rehabilitate bones, muscles and joints that are affected by the disorder
• Thyroid hormone, vitamin B12 and insulin supplements
• Tumor necrosis factor (TFN) blockers

Often, treatment will focus on reducing inflammation, though certain forms of treatment (such as corticosteroids) directly target the body’s immune response as well.

Diagnosing auto immune disorders can often be a challenge. As can be seen from the above list, the symptoms of these disorders are common among many types of illnesses; and, with so many types of auto immune disorders, physicians often struggle to properly pinpoint the correct diagnoses. If you are experiencing the symptoms listed above – particularly if you have recently been vaccinated – it is important to seek prompt medical attention to begin an appropriate course of treatment as soon as possible.

Have You Been Diagnosed with an Auto Immune Disorder Following a Vaccination?

If you have been diagnosed with an auto immune disorder following receipt of a vaccination, you may be entitled to compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. To learn more, or to find out how to file a claim at no financial cost to you, call (202) 800-1711 or contact our vaccine attorney online for a free consultation today.

Leah Durant Bio

Experienced vaccine attorney Leah Durant focuses on representing clients in complex vaccine litigation matters. Leah Durant is the owner and principal attorney of the Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC, a litigation firm based in Washington, DC. Leah Durant and her staff represent clients and their families who suffer from vaccine-related injuries, adverse vaccine reactions and vaccine-related deaths. The Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC is dedicated to assisting individuals in recovering the highest level of compensation as quickly and efficiently as possible. To learn more, contact vaccine attorney Leah Durant today.