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Autoimmune diseases: what they are, symptoms and how they are treated

In an autoimmune disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. There are more than 80, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. They require medical diagnosis and follow-up, usually with a rheumatologist.

Educational information prepared by Dr. Belinda Martínez, physician and surgeon. Last updated: October 3, 2026. It does not replace an assessment by a doctor.

Common examples

  • Rheumatoid arthritis: inflammation of the joints, especially the hands and feet.
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus: can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, blood and other organs.
  • Hashimoto's thyroiditis: affects the thyroid.
  • Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis: skin and joints.
  • Multiple sclerosis: nervous system.
  • Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease: other examples of autoimmune origin.

Signs that may suggest them

Symptoms depend on the disease and sometimes appear gradually and nonspecifically:

  • Pain and swelling in several joints, with prolonged morning stiffness.
  • Persistent fatigue and low-grade fever with no clear cause.
  • Skin rashes, especially if they worsen with sun exposure.
  • Hair loss, mouth sores or dry eyes and mouth.
  • Fingers changing color in the cold.

How they are diagnosed

The medical history, exam and lab tests are combined, such as antinuclear antibodies (ANA), rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP, inflammation markers (ESR and CRP) and tests of the affected organs. A single positive result is not enough for a diagnosis: it is interpreted together with the symptoms.

How they are treated

The goal is to control inflammation, prevent damage and maintain quality of life. Depending on the disease, treatment uses anti-inflammatories, short courses of corticosteroids, disease-modifying drugs (such as methotrexate or hydroxychloroquine), biologic therapies or JAK inhibitors. This is accompanied by adapted exercise, skin care, nutrition and vaccination as indicated.

These medications can increase the risk of infections. They should not be stopped on your own or replaced with supplements or unproven therapies.

Therapies under investigation

Hematopoietic stem cell transplants are being studied in very severe, selected cases of some diseases, as are advanced cell therapies, such as CAR-T, in refractory lupus. These are research options in specialized centers: they are not treatments for general use and should not be confused with unsupported commercial "stem cell" offers.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical care soon if you have any of these signs:

  • High fever with pain and swelling in a joint.
  • Chest pain or shortness of breath, leg swelling, or foamy or dark urine (possible organ involvement).
  • Sudden weakness, or changes in vision or speech.
  • Sores that do not heal, or fingers changing color with severe pain.

Frequently asked questions

Can autoimmune diseases be cured?

Most do not have a definitive cure, but with proper treatment they can be controlled and remission can be achieved in many cases. Early diagnosis and follow-up are key.

Which doctor treats them?

Mainly the rheumatologist. Depending on the organ affected, dermatologists, endocrinologists, neurologists or nephrologists are also involved.

Can a special diet cure them?

No diet cures autoimmune diseases, although balanced eating helps overall health, and some, such as celiac disease, require a specific diet.

Book your free assessment

Dr. Belinda Martínez reviews your case at her office in Guadalajara. The assessment is free of charge and does not commit you to any treatment.

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This content is informational and educational; it is not a diagnosis or a treatment recommendation. If you have any symptoms, consult a health professional.