Autoimmune Disease Treatment in Northern Virginia
Comprehensive Care for Autoimmune Conditions
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system, which normally protects the body from infections, mistakenly attacks healthy cells. This can lead to inflammation, tissue damage, and dysfunction in various organs. Depending on the condition, autoimmune diseases can affect a single organ or multiple body systems, making diagnosis and treatment complex.
There are over 80 known autoimmune diseases, many of which share similar symptoms. This overlap often makes diagnosis challenging, and some individuals may develop more than one autoimmune disorder simultaneously. These conditions typically alternate between remission (periods with few or no symptoms) and flare-ups (when symptoms worsen).
Common Types of Autoimmune Diseases
- Rheumatoid arthritis – Causes joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain
- Lupus – Affects the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs
- Psoriasis – Leads to irritated, flaky skin with red and silver-white patches
- Sjögren’s syndrome – Reduces tear and saliva production, causing dry eyes and mouth
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – Results in an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
- Graves’ disease – Triggers an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- Celiac disease – An immune reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine
- Scleroderma – Affects connective tissue, leading to skin thickening and organ complications
- Type 1 diabetes – Destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas
- Vitiligo – Causes loss of skin pigmentation, leading to white patches
- Addison’s disease – Reduces adrenal hormone production, impacting metabolism and energy levels
Symptoms of an Autoimmune Disease
While symptoms vary depending on the condition, common signs include:
Chronic fatigue Persistent fever Joint or muscle pain Skin rashes or discoloration Digestive issues Dry eyes and mouth General feelings of illness (malaise)
Autoimmune diseases can affect multiple body systems, including the joints, muscles, skin, blood vessels, endocrine glands, and connective tissues. Early diagnosis and specialized treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Schedule an appointment today with our expert rheumatologists in Northern Virginia for personalized autoimmune disease care.
Why Choose Our Practice?
Our experienced rheumatologists use advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to manage autoimmune diseases effectively. We focus on controlling symptoms, preventing flare-ups, and improving your quality of life.
