According to Dr. Arghya Chattopadhyay, Consultant, Rheumatology, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, India, autoimmune diseases are conditions that disrupt the body's immune response. This causes the immune system to mistakenly attack its own tissues and organs.
“The immune system is thought to protect against external threats,” Dr. Chattopadhyay said. However, when this system malfunctions, it works against internal structures, potentially affecting any organ from the brain, lungs, kidneys and more.”
Types of autoimmune diseases that affect mobility
Some types of autoimmune diseases can affect mobility.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that involves the joints, causing inflammation and pain that can hinder movement. RA is also one of the most common types of arthritis.
- Myositis is an autoimmune disease, the immune system accidentally attacks your body instead of protecting it.
Autoimmune encephalitis is a group of related conditions in which the body's immune system attacks the brain, causing inflammation.
- Vasculitis affects the nerves, severely impairing mobility and making daily activities difficult.
Lupus occurs when your body's immune system attacks your tissues and organs, leading to inflammation in your joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart and lungs.
Should you stop exercising if you have an autoimmune disease?
Living with an autoimmune disease can be challenging, especially if it affects mobility, making daily tasks difficult.
However, Dr. Chattopadhyay suggests that exercise can play an important role in managing autoimmune diseases, even for those affecting joints. Movement helps maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength, contributing to overall mobility. Regular exercise can also improve heart health and mood.
Conclude
While regular exercise can help people with autoimmune diseases manage symptoms, adopting a healthy lifestyle can also provide these benefits.
Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, avoiding fried foods and reducing alcohol intake can help support immune function and minimize symptoms.
