Contents
About Health
Many people around the world suffer from autoimmune diseases. These conditions can be difficult to manage and often don’t have any easy answers. Unfortunately, myths about autoimmune diseases abound, and these misguided beliefs can prevent people from getting the treatment they need to lead healthy lives. Here, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about autoimmune conditions and discuss what you need to know to stay healthy.
Myth #1: Autoimmune Diseases Are Contagious
It’s a common misconception that contracting an autoimmune disease is as simple as catching a cold. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, autoimmune diseases are not contagious. These conditions are caused by an individual’s own immune system overreacting to certain proteins in their bodies.
Myth #2: Most Autoimmune Diseases Only Affect Females
Though certain autoimmune conditions are associated with one gender more than the other, it’s misguided to think that only one gender is affected by these diseases. For example, the most common autoimmune condition, rheumatoid arthritis, affects both males and females equally. In addition, male-specific conditions such as Graves’ Disease affect a significant number of males.
Myth #3: Autoimmune Diseases Can’t Be Treated
Though autoimmune diseases are chronic conditions, there are many treatments available to help patients manage their symptoms. For example, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to reduce swelling, while immunosuppressants can help reduce the severity of flare-ups. In addition, lifestyle modifications such as stress reduction, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can help autoimmune patients lead healthy lives.
Myth #4: It’s Not Possible to Live With an Autoimmune Disease
It’s a common perception that living with an autoimmune disease is impossible. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Living with an autoimmune condition can be difficult, but it is definitely possible—and many people with these diseases lead healthy, active lives.
The Bottom Line
Autoimmune diseases can be difficult to manage and there are many myths about these conditions. It’s important to understand the facts about autoimmune diseases and to discuss your symptoms and treatment options with your healthcare provider. The more you know about your specific autoimmune condition, the better equipped you will be to manage your symptoms and lead a healthy life.
Keywords: Autoimmune Diseases, Contagious, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Stress Reduction, Healthy Diet, Regular Exercise, Immunosuppressants, NSAIDs, Graves’ Disease.
