Help with Autoimmunity
Autoimmune diseases have become more prevalent in recent years—but what exactly are they? Autoimmunity is essentially the loss of the ability for one’s immune system to distinguish “self” from “non-self” tissue, resulting in an imbalance and deregulation. This results in a person’s own immune system and antibodies mistakenly attacking its own tissues.
The very destructive process will continue, and will often affect more than one tissue, and increase in severity, unless the patterns are identified early and nutritional, dietary, and lifestyle modifications are implemented to decrease the autoimmune expression, and support the patient’s overall health.
Using Functional Medicine to Help Autoimmunity
Part of the functional medicine approach to autoimmunity we take at Oak Creek Relief & Wellness is to first identify the affected tissues and patterns of the autoimmunity. Next, we can begin support protocols. Traditional healthcare models typically don’t identify autoimmunity or pay much attention to it until there is complete tissue destruction.
Through symptom mapping, antibodies or blood biomarkers, and other assessment techniques, patterns of autoimmunity can be identified in early stages, where there is more than can be done to help the patient. The aim is to support the body in its adaptive state of physiology, and focus on certain aspects of the immune system to help it regulate and come back into balance.
Tissues commonly affected by autoimmunity include:
- Thyroid (Hashimoto’s)
- Skin (Psoriatic Arthritis or Eczema)
- Pancreas (Type 1 Diabetes)
- Cartilage/Joints (Rheumatoid or Lupus)
- Gut/Digestive System (Celiac)
- Brain
- MANY other types
If you or someone you love is suffering from early autoimmunity, please contact us to set up an initial Autoimmunity and Functional Medicine Consultation. We look forward to helping you!
