How autoimmune disease affects pregnancy, from flare risks to medication safety, fertility, and long-term health, plus expert guidance on managing care.
Carolyn Serraino
Why Autoimmunity Emerges Postpartum and How to Recognize It
Why autoimmune disease can emerge after childbirth, common postpartum autoimmune symptoms, and treatment considerations while breastfeeding.
The Vital Role of Caregivers in Autoimmune Disease
Autoimmune disorders impact millions of Americans, with over 80 currently known disorders. Informal caregivers play an essential role in supporting many adults living with these disorders. If you’re helping a loved one manage their health, your role is vital, and as the number of autoimmune diagnoses grows, understanding what you do and how to support […]
Innovative Diagnostic Techniques for Detecting Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune disease is a complex group of diseases, where symptoms can vary, wax and wane, and overlap with those of other conditions. This often means the time to diagnosis can take several months to years. Current tests available for autoimmune disease testing include antinuclear antibody (ANA) testing, C-reactive protein tests, ELISAs, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate […]
Decoding the Role of Autoantibodies in Autoimmunity
Your immune system makes antibodies against foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria. Sometimes, your body makes autoantibodies, proteins that mistakenly attack your body’s tissue, leading to autoimmunity. What are Autoantibodies? Under normal conditions, antibodies protect us by recognizing and attacking harmful substances. However, autoantibodies mistakenly identify the body’s tissues as threats. Faulty autoantibodies can target […]
Is Your Oral Microbiome Fueling Autoimmune Disease?
Trillions of microorganisms colonize our bodies. These microorganisms, collectively known as the microbiome, help us out in many ways, from protecting us from invading bacteria to digesting our food. However, the microbiome can sometimes get out of balance, which has been correlated with a variety of diseases, including autoimmune diseases. In this article, we examine the […]
What is the Microbiome and Why is it Important?
Many chronic illnesses, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease, appear to be affected by the microbiome. The relationship between autoimmunity and the microbiome is still being studied intensely, but these conditions are likely associated with an imbalance in the gut microbiome. Although strong evidence is still emerging, studies suggest that autoimmune patients exhibit reduced microbial diversity.
Vitiligo: What We Know and What We Don’t Know
Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease characterized by a loss of pigment (color) in the skin, resulting in lighter spots or patches that may gradually expand. While it commonly affects a person’s face, hands, arms, feet, and legs, vitiligo patches can also appear anywhere else in the body. How Does Vitiligo Develop? Cameron Coury, MD, a […]
Biologics for Autoimmune Disease: What You Should Know
How biologics work to treat autoimmune diseases, their benefits, risks, costs, and what to expect if your doctor prescribes one.
A Guide for Immunocompromised Individuals in a Post-Pandemic World
Even as the world moves on from the pandemic, immunocompromised individuals continue to face heightened health risks. With fewer people wearing masks, navigating daily life safely can be challenging. This guide explores the science behind immune function, the impact of mask-wearing, legal protections, and practical strategies for advocating for personal health. Whether seeking protection in healthcare settings, workplaces, or social interactions, immunocompromised individuals can find support and solutions to maintain both physical and mental well-being in an increasingly unmasked world.