Elsa Angel Rose
Having a strong immune system does not mean the immune system might eventually start attacking one’s own healthy tissues. Autoimmune diseases occur when one’s own immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own healthy tissues. “A strong immune system does not mean a person is more likely to develop an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune disorders happen when the immune system becomes confused and mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. This is due to a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, not because the immune system is ‘too strong.’ The goal is a well-balanced immune system rather than simply a stronger one,” shared Dr Nagnath R Khadke, Consultant, Rheumatology, Manipal Hospital.
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Autoimmune diseases: Why women face a higher risk
Recent findings and studies show that women are more susceptible to autoimmune diseases than men, and there are several reasons for this. “About 7 out of 10 autoimmune patients in India are women. The reasons are multifactorial. Biologically, hormonal changes during reproductive age and after childbirth, along with immune-related genes on the X chromosome, contribute to this higher risk. Women’s immune systems are also generally more robust. Social factors play a role as well, as women often overlook early symptoms like tiredness or joint pain and delay seeing a doctor due to family responsibilities. Together, genetics, hormones, and lifestyle make women more vulnerable,” shared Dr Mithila Kudchadkar, Preventive and Social Medicine consultant at Manipal Hospital.
The major autoimmune diseases seen in women are Rheumatoid arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s), Sjogren’s syndrome, and Psoriasis. Seen in both genders and relatively more in men include Ankylosing spondylitis, Type 1 diabetes, and vasculitides. “Overall, autoimmune diseases affect about 8% of the population, with 78% showing female preponderance,” said Dr Mithila. There is also a strong connection between puberty, pregnancy, menopause and autoimmune disorders, with hormonal changes coming under focus. “Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause are periods when hormones like estrogen fluctuate, which may trigger or worsen certain autoimmune diseases in people who are already genetically prone. For example, some autoimmune diseases may first appear after puberty, improve during pregnancy, and flare up after childbirth or around menopause. However, hormones alone do not cause these diseases. They are only one of several contributing factors,” said Dr Nagnath.
When persistent symptoms need medical attention
There is no single cause of autoimmune disorders. It is usually a combination of genetics, hormones, environmental factors, and lifestyle. “A family history can increase the risk, while hormones, especially estrogen, also play a role. Environmental factors such as infections, pollution, and industrial chemicals may contribute, along with lifestyle factors like stress, obesity, nutritional deficiencies, and poor sleep. Sometimes, symptoms worsen in winter due to cold, less sunlight, and more infections,” explained Dr Mithila.
Now, when to consult a doctor? If a person has persistent symptoms for more than 2-3 weeks that don’t fit a simple infection, such as joint pain, swelling, or morning stiffness; unexplained fatigue, fever, or weight loss; skin rashes, dry eyes or mouth, or hair fall; and thyroid symptoms, breathlessness, or organ involvement, one has to consult a Doctor. “Because women often dismiss these as stress or ageing, early screening helps prevent long-term damage. Primary care physicians play a big role in recognising these and referring to a Rheumatologist,” shared Dr Mithila.
Goa mirrors the national trend
Just like the other parts of the nation, Goa witnesses more people being diagnosed with autoimmune disorders and precisely more women. Better awareness and improved diagnostic facilities have led to more diagnoses and treatments for the disease. “Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and thyroid-related autoimmune diseases are more commonly seen in women, especially during their reproductive years. Women are generally two to ten times more likely than men to develop certain autoimmune disorders because of hormonal and genetic differences,” said Dr Nagnath.
The major aspect to bring things under control is the lifestyle. How one lives their life, what food they consume, how they keep their body active, and more, play a significant role in managing autoimmune diseases. Dr Nagnath explains, “Lifestyle plays an important role in managing autoimmune diseases. Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, getting enough sleep, avoiding smoking, and managing stress can help reduce disease flares and improve overall health. Emotional well-being is equally important, as living with a chronic illness can affect mental health. Support from family, counselling, patient support groups, and regular follow-up with a rheumatologist can help patients cope better and improve their quality of life.”
