There are more than 80 autoimmune diseases. They are difficult to diagnose, and most people with these incurable conditions need lifelong treatment.

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Patient Describing Symptoms

Doctor Talking with Teenage Girl

Dermatological skin disease. psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, allergies. Skin lesions on the elbows.

Using mobile phone.

Doctor Listening to Patient

Woman exhausted at desk with coffee

Medicine and vitamins

Omega-3 fats are good for your skin

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Medline Plus

Johns Hopkins

Autoimmune Diseases

BMC Medicine

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

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The immune system protects the body against infection. However, it's more like a little army than a giant shield. Germs, bacteria, and viruses primarily enter the body through contact with infected surfaces or through the air. The microscopic army fights off the invaders and remembers their weaknesses for next time. The next time your body encounters a similar infection, your immune system is better equipt to fight it. This process also happens on a smaller scale when you get flu shots and vaccines.

An important part of this system is white blood cells, which seek and destroy germs as soon as they enter the body. Doctors can test the levels of white blood cells in your body to see if you have the flu or a similar infection. If you have a high level of white blood cells you are probably fighting off an infection. You can boost your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle.

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Conditions

"Condition" is a general term for particular abnormal diseases that negatively affect a part or all of the body. Conditions are not due to any external injury. Therefore, a broken bone does not classify as a condition, whereas Herpes, OCD, Shingles, and Ulcers do.

Medical conditions are classified by specific symptoms and signs. While each person's experiences can vary, there are consistent signs and symptoms that doctors will look for when diagnosing their patients. We always recommend that people seek a professional diagnosis. Afterward, supplement medical advice and opinion with accurate and easy to read information.

Most people only spend an average of a couple minutes with their doctor during a checkup. Oftentimes patients don't receive the fullest explanation of their diagnosis. Easily search through the vast amount of articles that Facty Health offers for ones that address your specific needs. From there, allow us to help you with those unanswered questions.

Immune System

Autoimmune Diseases and How They Affect the Body

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