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An **autoimmune disease** occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy tissues, thinking they are foreign invaders. Normally, the immune system protects against infections (bacteria, viruses) by recognizing self from non-self. In autoimmune diseases, this self-recognition fails, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.
Genetic Factors: A family history of autoimmune disease increases the risk. Certain immune-related genes, especially HLA genes, are strongly linked to these conditions.
Environmental Triggers: Infections (viral or bacterial), exposure to chemicals or toxins, certain medications, and lifestyle habits like smoking can trigger or worsen autoimmune diseases.
Hormonal Influence: Women are more likely to develop autoimmune diseases, suggesting that hormones such as estrogen may affect immune system function.
Oxidative stress – Harmful molecules (called free radicals) can damage brain cells over time.
Immune System Dysregulation: An overactive immune system, abnormal T-cell or B-cell function, or loss of the body’s ability to recognize its own tissues can lead to disease development.
There are more than 80 recognized autoimmune diseases that affect different parts of the body. Women are more commonly affected than men, accounting for about 75% of cases. In some situations, a person may develop more than one autoimmune disease at the same time, as these conditions can occur together.