New Delhi is seeing a rise in autoimmune diseases, particularly among women. Dr. Uma Kumar, head of Rheumatology at AIIMS Delhi, pointed out that the winter season and high pollution levels might be worsening these conditions.
Autoimmune diseases can impact one organ, like the pancreas, or be systemic, affecting multiple organs. There are about 60 types of autoimmune diseases. They often show up in women, particularly during their reproductive years. Dr. Kumar explained that hormones and genes on the X chromosome could be factors in this phenomenon. While younger women might face a female-to-male ratio of 9:1 for these diseases, this evens out to nearly 1:1 after menopause.
Many women suffer in silence due to misconceptions that these diseases are hereditary or contagious. This misunderstanding can lead to mental health issues as they often feel neglected.
Dr. Kumar noted that winter can intensify symptoms. Cold temperatures can lead to joint stiffness, while pollution, reduced sunlight, and viral infections also contribute. Recent studies show that people exposed to high pollution levels have increased inflammatory markers, which can heighten the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Chronic stress and lack of sleep can worsen inflammation too. Interestingly, many night-shift workers report higher rates of these conditions. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an uptick in autoimmune disorders, indicating that lifestyle and environmental factors play significant roles.
Lifestyle choices are also critical. Poor diet, smoking, and obesity can heighten inflammation, putting individuals at a greater risk. Obesity itself is an inflammatory state that can lead to autoimmune issues.
There’s also been a rise in awareness about these diseases in recent years. Diagnostic tools are better now, allowing earlier recognition and treatment. However, treatment often requires lifelong management, similar to diabetes or hypertension.
Symptoms of autoimmune diseases can vary widely. They may include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and even neurological symptoms. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis, as testing without guidance can lead to confusion; autoantibodies can show up in healthy people too.
Dr. Kumar cautioned against using steroids and painkillers without medical advice, as they aren’t necessary for all autoimmune diseases. Instead, she emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes. Adequate sleep, stress management, regular exercise, and weight control are key to preventing flares. Techniques like yoga can also help manage inflammation and improve sleep quality for those with these conditions.
Overall, awareness and lifestyle choices are crucial in managing autoimmune diseases effectively.
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