Autoimmune Disease Specialist

Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC

Rheumatology & Allergy & Immunology located in Manchester, CT

Your immune system is designed to protect you from disease and infections by attacking foreign invaders. Unfortunately, for some people their immune system may attack healthy cells, causing damage and disease, often referred to as an autoimmune disease. The experienced team at Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC in Manchester and Middletown, Connecticut, specialize in autoimmune diseases and can help you manage your symptoms for better health. For more information on managing autoimmune diseases, schedule an appointment online or by phone today.

860-646-9929

Autoimmune Disease Q & A

What is an autoimmune disease?

An autoimmune disease refers to a condition in which your body’s own immune system attacks the healthy cells in your body, causing various symptoms. Autoimmune diseases can affect any body system or body part.

Researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of autoimmune diseases, but theorize that your family history and environmental exposures may play a role in their development.

What are common autoimmune diseases?

There are more than 80 types of autoimmune diseases. The most common conditions treated at Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC include:

Lupus

Lupus is a systemic autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks and damages various organs or tissue in your body.

Inflammatory autoimmune arthritis

Inflammatory autoimmune arthritis occurs when your immune system attacks your joints, leading to pain and inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common type of inflammatory autoimmune arthritis. If left untreated, inflammatory autoimmune arthritis can lead to permanent joint damage and severe disability.

Adult immunodeficiency

Adult immunodeficiency refers to a condition in which your immune system is suppressed, and may leave you more vulnerable to disease. This condition was most often seen in children, but it’s being diagnosed more and more in adults.

Type 1 diabetes and Hashimoto’s disease are also types of autoimmune diseases, but these conditions may be treated by other medical specialists or your primary care physician.

How are autoimmune diseases diagnosed?

Your specialist at Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC conducts a comprehensive examination to determine if your symptoms are related to an autoimmune disorder. Your examination may include a review of your symptoms, medical and family history, and a physical exam. You may also need diagnostic tests, such as a blood test or imaging, to further evaluate the underlying cause of your symptoms and their effect on your body.

What treatments are available for autoimmune diseases?

Your specialist develops a personalized treatment plan to manage your autoimmune disease. Your treatment may include anti-inflammatories to relieve pain and symptoms or medications to suppress your immune system to prevent the attacks on your healthy cells.

The team at Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC also offer infusions to help support immune function and your body’s fight against the immune system attacks.

To learn more about your treatment options for autoimmune diseases, call Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC or schedule an appointment online today.

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