Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system, which typically defends the body against harmful invaders like bacteria and viruses, malfunctions and targets healthy cells. There are over 100 known autoimmune diseases, ranging from organ-specific conditions like Type 1 Diabetes to systemic diseases like Lupus.
| Disease | Primary Target | Common Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) | Joints | Joint pain, swelling, stiffness |
| Multiple Sclerosis (MS) | Nervous system | Numbness, tingling, vision problems |
| Lupus | Multiple organs | Fatigue, joint pain, butterfly-shaped facial rash |
| Psoriasis | Skin | Red, scaly patches |
| Type 1 Diabetes | Pancreas | Extreme thirst, frequent urination |
| Sjögren’s Syndrome | Glands (eyes/mouth) | Dry eyes, dry mouth |
While each autoimmune disease has unique characteristics, many share overlapping symptoms due to the underlying immune dysfunction. Let’s examine these common symptoms in detail.
Fatigue is one of the most prevalent and debilitating symptoms of autoimmune diseases. Unlike ordinary tiredness, autoimmune fatigue is profound and persistent. It can interfere with daily activities and is often unrelieved by rest.
A 2015 survey found that 98% of individuals with autoimmune diseases experience fatigue, with 68% describing it as their most disabling symptom58.
Joint pain and swelling are hallmark symptoms of many autoimmune conditions. Inflammation in the joints can lead to stiffness, tenderness, and reduced mobility.
Patients with RA often report stiffness that is worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Autoimmune diseases frequently manifest as skin problems. These can range from rashes to more severe conditions like psoriasis.
| Condition | Skin Manifestation |
|---|---|
| Lupus | Butterfly rash across cheeks/nose |
| Psoriasis | Thickened red patches with silver scales |
| Dermatomyositis | Purple or red rash on eyelids/knuckles |
Many autoimmune diseases affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
It’s important to differentiate between gluten sensitivity (which doesn’t involve autoimmunity) and Celiac Disease (an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten)14.
Autoimmune diseases affecting the nervous system can cause neurological issues such as numbness, tingling sensations, or even paralysis.
In MS patients:
Hair loss is another common symptom tied to autoimmune activity. It may be patchy (alopecia areata) or diffuse.
Low-grade fever and a general feeling of being unwell (malaise) are common during flare-ups of autoimmune diseases.
Sjögren’s Syndrome is particularly known for causing dryness in mucosal tissues like the eyes and mouth.
| Symptom Severity | Description |
|---|---|
| Mild | Occasional dryness |
| Moderate | Persistent discomfort |
| Severe | Impaired vision/speech due to dryness |
Autoimmune diseases often follow a cyclical pattern:
Understanding these cycles can help patients manage their conditions more effectively.
If you experience persistent symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain/swelling, unexplained weight changes, or skin rashes that don’t resolve with standard treatments:
Recognising common symptoms across autoimmune conditions is critical for early diagnosis and effective management. While each disease has unique features, shared signs such as fatigue, joint pain/swelling, skin issues, digestive problems, and neurological changes should not be ignored.If you suspect an autoimmune condition based on these symptoms:
By understanding your body’s signals and working closely with healthcare providers, you can take proactive steps toward managing your health effectively.
Gemma is a dedicated clinician who manages her own multiple sclerosis (MS) with resilience and expertise. In addition to her medical practice, she holds a degree in philosophy, providing her with unique insights to navigate complex and challenging situations.