Women health guide: Why Women experience autoimmune disorders? 5 ways to manage them

Autoimmune diseases might be more prevalent in women. Knowing the why is the beginning of the healing process — and coping with these diseases using strength and insight is the path ahead.

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Autoimmune diseases are perhaps the most confusing and most poorly comprehended health ailments — and they impact women a great deal more than men. Indeed, almost 80% of patients suffering from autoimmune diseases are women, the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA) estimates. From lupus and rheumatoid arthritis to Hashimoto's thyroiditis and multiple sclerosis, autoimmune diseases have the potential to greatly diminish a woman's quality of life.

But why are women more susceptible, and how can they control these disorders more effectively? Let's get down to brass tacks.

Why Women experience autoimmune disorders

1. Hormonal Factor

Hormones such as estrogen are thought to have a great influence on immune processes. Estrogen can heighten immune response, and that is a double sword: it aids in the resistance against infections but may also lead the immune system to target healthy tissues, resulting in autoimmune disease.

Autoimmune conditions tend to flare during hormonal fluctuations, like puberty, pregnancy, or menopause — reinforcing the connection between immune imbalance and female hormones.

2. Genetic Influences

Most autoimmune conditions have a high hereditary component. Women can inherit gene mutations that predispose their immune system to failure. Some genes on the X chromosome (of which women possess two) also predispose women to autoimmune risk.

3. Greater Immune Reactivity

Women have a more robust immune system than men naturally. This natural immunity aids in resisting infections but can also lead to an overactive immune response, increasing the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.

How Women Can Manage Autoimmune Disorders

Autoimmune disorders are frequently chronic and non-curable, but they can be well controlled through a combination of proper medical treatment, dietary modifications, and psychological support.

1. Early Diagnosis and Regular Checkups

Many autoimmune diseases are hard to diagnose and tend to mimic other diseases. Women must speak up for themselves, monitor their symptoms, and see specialists (such as rheumatologists) when necessary. Routine screenings can identify flares early and avoid long-term damage.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Diet is very important. An anti-inflammatory, gut-friendly diet with plenty of leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, berries, and whole grains can alleviate symptoms. Staying away from processed foods, sugars, and gluten (in some situations) can also assist with reducing inflammation.

3. Stress Management

Long-term stress can exacerbate autoimmune symptoms. Yoga, mindfulness meditation, journaling, and gentle exercise are vital in maintaining a balanced mind and immune system.

4. Medication and Supplements

Depending on the disease, physicians might prescribe immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatory medication, or hormone replacement therapy. A few women also find benefit in taking vitamin D, omega-3, and probiotics — always under a physician's guidance.

5. Support and Community

Being with an autoimmune disease can be lonely. Attending support groups, whether virtual or face-to-face, allows women to exchange stories, obtain information, and remain mentally strong.