Women Are at Greater Risk of Autoimmune Disease

Approximately 50 million Americans have an autoimmune disease, and 4 out of 5 of those are women. An autoimmune disease is a condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. A healthy immune system defends the body against disease and infection, but if the immune system does not function properly, it can attack healthy cells, tissues and organs.

Why are women at greater risk?

Scientists are not sure why people develop autoimmune diseases, but research shows that they are likely caused by interactions between genetic factors and environmental factors. A person’s gender, race and ethnicity are linked to a likelihood of developing an autoimmune disease.

“The immune system can be impacted by hormones, however many explanations as to why women have a higher incidence have been proposed, including sex hormones, X chromosome, microchimerism, environmental factors and microbiome,” explained Kristina F. Brown, DO, FACOG, a board-certified physician who practices obstetrics and gynecology with Penn Highlands Healthcare. “Many autoimmune disorders affect women during stressors such as pregnancy and hormonal changes.”

What are examples of autoimmune disorders?

There are approximately 80 different autoimmune disorders. Common examples include celiac disease, multiple sclerosis, lupus, Type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

What are the symptoms?

Because there are so many and such a wide range of autoimmune diseases, there is not one set of symptoms that indicates the disease. The symptoms depend on the part of the body that is affected.

Many autoimmune diseases could cause signs of inflammation: redness, swelling, heat and pain. Because other illnesses often cause these same symptoms, however, it is not always a reliable indicator, and patients with unusual autoimmune diseases may suffer years before getting a correct diagnosis.

How are they diagnosed?

In many cases, there is not a single test that can diagnose a specific autoimmune disease and because symptoms may be caused by another condition, diagnosis can also be difficult. Your provider will likely want to learn about your family history and the characteristics of your symptoms. How long do they last? What makes them better? What makes them worse?

It generally takes multiple visits and possibly a referral to a specialist to diagnose an autoimmune disease. And while most cannot be cured, they can be controlled with medications and other treatments.

If you have been healthy and suddenly feel fatigue, joint stiffness, skin problems, digestive issues or other problems, talk to your healthcare provider. Because women are at a greater risk for autoimmune diseases, it is important to schedule regular checkups and wellness appointments with your women’s health provider and discuss any unexplained symptoms you are experiencing.

From preventive screenings to maternity care to the special needs of women after menopause, Penn Highlands Healthcare provides comprehensive women’s health services throughout Pennsylvania for women of all ages. To learn more, visit www.phhealthcare.org/women.