How does Ananta Health Treat Autoimmune Diseases?
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body against harmful pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders. It is responsible for identifying and neutralizing harmful pathogens, and it also helps to repair and regenerate damaged tissue. The immune system includes various types of white blood cells, such as T cells and B cells, as well as specialized cells and molecules that work together to protect the body. It is constantly monitoring the body for signs of infection and disease, and it can also learn to recognize and remember pathogens, so that it can respond more effectively in the future.
What is an Autoimmune Disease?
Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages healthy tissues in the body. This can lead to inflammation, tissue damage, and various symptoms depending on the specific disease. The exact cause of autoimmune diseases is not fully understood, but it is believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors may contribute to the development of these conditions. Some examples of autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes. These diseases can be chronic, and they may require lifelong management through a combination of medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes.
Some of the most commonly known autoimmune diseases are:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Lyme disease
- ALS
- MS
- Celiac disease
- Pernicious anemia
- Vitiligo
- Scleroderma
- Psoriasis
- Crohn’s disease
- Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
- Type 1 diabetes
How does an Autoimmune Disease Start?
Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages healthy tissues in the body. The exact cause of autoimmune diseases is not fully understood, but it is believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors may contribute to the development of these conditions.
Symptoms of autoimmune diseases can vary depending on the specific disease, but some common early symptoms include:
- Fatigue: A feeling of exhaustion that is not relieved by rest or sleep
- Achy muscles: Pain or discomfort in the muscles
- Swelling and redness: Inflammation of the affected tissue
- Low-grade fever: A slight increase in body temperature
- Trouble concentrating: Difficulty focusing on tasks or remembering things
- Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet: Loss of sensation or a tingling feeling in the extremities
- Hair loss: Thinning or loss of hair
- Skin rashes: Irritated or discolored patches of skin
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases can help to prevent or slow down the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for the patients.
What does Chronic Pain with an Autoimmune Disease look like?
In an autoimmune disease, pain can manifest in various forms and can be classified as both acute and chronic. Acute pain can be caused by inflammation in a specific area, such as joint pain in rheumatoid arthritis or muscle pain in lupus. Chronic pain can be caused by ongoing inflammation and damage to the affected tissue. This can cause persistent discomfort, fatigue, and a decreased ability to perform daily activities. It can also be associated with other symptoms such as stiffness and difficulty moving the affected joints in rheumatoid arthritis or fatigue and headaches in multiple sclerosis.
In some autoimmune diseases, pain can also be neuropathic, which means it is caused by damage or dysfunction in the nervous system. This type of pain is often described as burning, tingling, or numbness and can be difficult to treat.
In summary, pain in autoimmune diseases can be caused by inflammation, damage to the affected tissue, or dysfunction in the nervous system. It can manifest as acute or chronic pain, and can be associated with other symptoms, depending on the specific autoimmune disease.
How are Autoimmune Diseases Treated?
Autoimmune diseases can be challenging to treat as the underlying cause is not fully understood and the symptoms can vary widely. However, with the right approach and treatment, patients can often achieve significant relief from symptoms and improve their quality of life.
At Ananta Health, we use a holistic approach to treating autoimmune diseases by first taking an assessment of the patient’s health history, including family history and performing a BioScan SRT assessment. This assessment helps to identify any foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins that may be contributing to the autoimmune disorder.
Our course of treatment is designed to address anything foreign in the body, while regulating the immune system. We use a combination of Chinese herbs and supplements that are carefully selected to not over stimulate the immune system or work against any medication. We also recommend dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as stress management to help support the treatment. As the patient starts to feel better and the underlying cause is treated, they can move to management or maintenance care. With autoimmune diseases, since there is no cure, it is important to continually monitor the immune system and continue to implement any lifestyle changes to help keep the symptoms under control.
How is Chronic Pain Managed and Treated when you have an Autoimmune Disease?
Chronic pain management in autoimmune diseases is a complex process that requires a multifaceted approach. Treatment plans are often tailored to the individual and their specific needs, as different people may respond differently to various therapies.
- Analgesics: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications can help to reduce pain symptoms.
- Counseling and therapy: Talking with a professional can help individuals cope with the emotional and psychological impact of living with chronic pain.
- Relaxation and meditation techniques: Yoga and meditation can be beneficial in managing pain.
- Exercise and physical therapy: Movement can help to improve mobility, strength, and function in the affected joints or muscles.
- Acupuncture: Helps relieve pain and improve overall well-being
- Massage Therapy: Also helps relieve pain and improve overall well-being.
At Ananta Health, BioScan SRT testing is used to determine the root cause of the pain, which can help to create a personalized treatment plan that includes methods of Traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and herbs, and lifestyle and dietary adjustments.
It is important to work closely with a healthcare professional to find the most effective treatment plan for managing chronic pain in autoimmune diseases. It is important to keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for another and that a combination of different treatments may be necessary to achieve the best possible outcome.
How can Acupuncture help Autoimmune Diseases and Chronic Pain?
Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. It is believed that acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities and restoring balance to the body’s energy or Qi.
In autoimmune diseases, acupuncture can help to reduce pain and inflammation by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. It can also help to improve circulation, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected areas. Acupuncture can also help to improve the function of the immune system, which is often compromised in autoimmune diseases. By regulating the immune system, acupuncture can help to reduce the severity and frequency of flare-ups and improve overall well-being. It can also help to reduce fatigue, which is a common symptom of autoimmune diseases. Acupuncture can also help to reduce anxiety and depression, which can be associated with living with a chronic illness.
At Ananta Health, we strive to provide our patients with the best possible care and treatment options for autoimmune diseases. With our holistic approach, we work to address the underlying cause of the disorder, while also providing support and guidance to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.