Autoimmune disorders develop when your own immune system attacks healthy parts of your body the same way it would attack invading germs.
Living with one of the more than 80 autoimmune conditions means you may need to change elements of your lifestyle, including your attitude toward preventing infections or illnesses. No matter what type of autoimmune disease or disorder you have, the condition transforms your life.
Dr. Nichelle Renk and the team at Alpenglow Pain & Wellness of Anchorage, Alaska, prioritize your health and wellness. Take a moment to explore advice on preventing infections when you have an autoimmune disorder.
With the right information and support, your diagnosis becomes more manageable, with fewer negative impacts on your body and mind.
Common autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, Type 1 diabetes, and lupus. Women have a higher risk of autoimmune disorders than men.
People with this type of condition run a higher risk of infections becoming a serious health problem. Also, some common treatments put you at greater risk of developing infections in the first place.
Sometimes, an infection may trigger your autoimmune disease. After you’re diagnosed, you may learn that you have a higher risk of developing infections than other people due to your disordered immune response. You also may also be more vulnerable to infections turning serious, or even septic.
Some courses of treatment for your autoimmune condition weaken your immune system, meaning that you need to take extra care with infections and infectious diseases. These treatments include immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and corticosteroid therapy.
Preventing infections while also managing your autoimmune condition involves maintaining a delicate balance.
Your partnership with Dr. Renk and the Alpenglow Pain & Wellness team allows you to stay informed about the side effects and risks associated with your underlying condition and treatment strategy. We let you know when you need to pay particular attention to your infection risk, and what preventive measures you can take.
You can reduce your risk of infections and illnesses by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Make sure your body is optimally positioned to handle threats of infection or contagion by keeping rested, nutritionally supported, and on top of stress.
Rest and a good night’s sleep make a big difference in your body’s ability to heal itself. Don’t push yourself too hard during the day, and set aside plenty of time to sleep at night.
Manage stress in other parts of your life as much as possible. Meditation, mindfulness, and even moderate exercise can help with this. Many autoimmune patients find stress relief in support groups, as well.
Pay attention to your diet and nutritional needs, especially after receiving an autoimmune disorder diagnosis. Your body needs plenty of essential vitamins and nutrients, such as those found in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein, to stay strong and responsive to threats of illness or infection.
Talk to Dr. Renk about your diet. You may benefit from nutritional counseling or supplementation.
For the comprehensive support you need to stay well after an autoimmune diagnosis, contact Alpenglow Pain & Wellness online or over the phone today.
