How do autoimmune disorders affect the human body?
Autoimmune and systemic disorders are experienced by more than 50 million people in our country. This type of disease stems from misfiring in the body’s natural immune response, in which healthy cells are mistaken as foreign. In response to the perceived antigen, the immune system seeks to destroy these cells. Several types of tissue in the body may be attacked through an autoimmune disorder. In some cases, organ function and growth are also altered.
How many different autoimmune conditions are there?
Researchers believe that there may be as many as 80 different autoimmune conditions. These conditions, which tend to have periods of flare-up and remission, can develop in conjunction with others and may share similar symptoms with other conditions as well. At this time, curative therapy for autoimmune disease does not exist. In caring for autoimmune patients, the goal is to relieve and manage symptoms as much as possible. Using multiple modalities and identifying triggers, your experienced physician offers you the relief you seek.
How does an autoimmune disorder affect the eyes?
An autoimmune disorder can affect multiple parts of the body, from joints and nerves, to the eyes. Because the list of autoimmune and systemic disorders is so extensive, knowing every way in which a disorder can affect eye health and vision is nearly impossible. If you have an autoimmune disorder, or even if you have not been diagnosed with one, and you experience vision changes such as sensitivity to light, pain, clouded vision, or blurriness, you should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist.
How does treatment minimize the effects of autoimmune disease?
With appropriate treatment, it is possible to minimize the effects of autoimmune disease on the eyes as well as other areas of the body. First, we must determine which area or areas of the eye are affected. Building blocks to eye health, such as sugars and proteins, are also assessed for the level of involvement.
The key to successful management, through which your quality of life is improved, is the depth of the assessment conducted. With a great deal of knowledge and experience, Dr. Elora Roy, MD performs diagnostic testing to fully understand your condition and reach a suitable treatment plan. For more information, contact us today or visit us online to book an appointment. We serve patients from Wesley Chapel FL, Land o Lakes FL, Lutz FL, New Tampa FL, Tampa Palms FL, Zephyrhills FL, San Antonio FL, Dade City FL, Tampa FL and surrounding areas.
