Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune diseases are more common than you may think, and finding the right practitioner is an essential part of successful treatment. For many in Salt Lake City, Utah, David Shaskey, MD, of Millcreek Rheumatology is their provider of choice. When you need top-quality autoimmune disease diagnostic or treatment services, call or click to schedule a visit at Millcreek Rheumatology online.

What is an autoimmune disease?

An autoimmune disease is not a single condition but a term used to describe more than 80 different types of disease. These conditions develop when your immune system mistakenly identifies your tissues as potentially harmful and launches an attack. 

As your immune system continues to destroy your healthy cells, it becomes less able to fight off bacteria, fungi, and viruses. As a result, you become more at risk for infection. 

Some of the more common forms of autoimmune diseases include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Psoriasis
• Graves’ disease
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Type 1 diabetes mellitus
• Lupus

These are just a few examples of conditions that fall under the umbrella of autoimmune diseases.

What causes an autoimmune disease?

Researchers are unaware of the exact causes of autoimmune diseases, but it’s suspected that an injury or infection prompts the immune system to kick into action, and that response continues long after the risk of harm has passed. 

Some of the risk factors believed to increase the chances of developing autoimmune diseases include:

• Smoking
• Certain medications 
• Genetic predisposition
• Being overweight or obese

If you have any of these risk factors, stay alert to the symptoms of autoimmune diseases and seek a diagnostic assessment if needed. 

What are some signs I might have an autoimmune disease?

While there are many different types of autoimmune diseases, many share the same set of symptoms that might include:

• Fatigue
• Recurring fever
• Swollen glands
• Joint pain and swelling
• Digestive problems or abdominal pain
• Skin issues

Diagnosing autoimmune disorders is not a straightforward process. It’s important to work with a highly skilled practitioner like Dr. Shaskey, who has the training and experience needed to diagnose your condition properly. 

If you have an autoimmune disorder, Dr. Shaskey explains all available treatment options and provides the details you need to make an informed decision about your care. Feel free to ask questions and express concerns as they arise. 

When you’re ready to move forward, booking a visit at Millcreek Rheumatology takes just moments online or over the phone. Taking a proactive approach allows you to begin treatment as quickly as possible.