Protect Your Body From Itself

When your immune system turns against you, there are steps you can take to boost your health.

- ANDREW WEIL, M.D.

A strong immune system protects you from foreign invaders such as viruses, bacteria, and other germs. But when yours mistakes your body's own tissues for a threat, you could develop an autoimmune condition. Here are four key things to know about autoimmune disorders and how a holistic treatment plan can help.

1 There are many autoimmune disorders.

In fact, experts estimate that there are more than 80. Common ones are rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, type diabetes, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, and certain thyroid conditions. Depending on the condition, symptoms can include pain, inflammation, and fatigue, which can flare, subside, and flare up again over time.

2 Women are at higher risk.