5 Fatal Autoimmune Diseases To Know About
The immune system is essential for protecting the body against harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, sometimes, it mistakenly attacks the body's own proteins, leading to autoimmune diseases.
A 2023 study found that approximately 1 in 10 individuals is affected by these disorders, analysing data from over 22 million people between 2000 and 2019 and revealing a rising trend in autoimmune conditions.
Around 80 types of autoimmune disorders exist, affecting various body parts. While many can severely affect the quality of life, some are life-threatening. Conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus and multiple sclerosis pose significant health risks. Thankfully, recent treatment advancements offer hope for better management. Here is a list of fatal autoimmune diseases to know about.
What are the most serious autoimmune diseases to know?
Many autoimmune diseases are diagnosed worldwide, but only a few are considered the most dangerous autoimmune diseases that can lead to serious complications and even be fatal. In such cases, immediate treatment is a must. Below is a list of the top 5 autoimmune diseases, explained in detail to address the question: can autoimmune disease kill you.
1. Giant Cell Myocarditis
Giant cell myocarditis is one of the rare autoimmune diseases that causes inflammation of the heart, affecting only about 0.13 people out of 100,000. It progresses rapidly and can be fatal, significantly impacting daily life for those affected. Initial symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, heart palpitations, fatigue, or swelling in the ankles, making routine activities challenging.
Individuals diagnosed with this condition typically require a heart transplant, and studies indicate that survival rates after transplantation can be around 60% to 70% at five years. Immunosuppressant medications are the main line of treatment because they help reduce inflammation and prevent the immune system from attacking the heart tissue. This can stabilise the patient’s condition until a transplant can be performed. Without treatment, life-threatening complications can arise within five months of symptom onset, and this fatal autoimmune disease is most often found in middle-aged individuals between 20 and 40.
2. Vasculitis
Vasculitis is a rare and potentially fatal autoimmune disease, often considered one of the worst autoimmune diseases, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s blood vessels, leading to inflammation. There are several types of vasculitis, some of which can have severe consequences, such as Granulomatosis with polyangiitis and Takayasu’s arteritis.
Symptoms vary depending on which blood vessels and organs are affected, but common signs include loss of appetite, fatigue, weight loss, generalised aches, and fever. The current standard treatment for ANCA-associated vasculitis involves cyclophosphamide combined with high-dose glucocorticoids. This approach is effective in 70% to 90% of patients. However, cyclophosphamide carries risks such as leukopenia, severe infections, cancer, and ovarian failure.
Vasculitis can occur separately or alongside other autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjogren’s syndrome. The common prescription medications used in severe cases are steroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). In some severe cases, the blood flow can be blocked and lead to organ damage or death.
3. Multiple sclerosis (MS)
In multiple sclerosis, the overactive immune system damages the covering layer of nerves in the brain and spinal cord. It can cause muscle weakness, vision problems, and loss of balance. MS commonly affects people aged between 20 and 30, and women are more likely to get affected than men. It is one of the common causes of disability in younger adults.
A study found that people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have a median life expectancy of about 76 years, compared to 83 years for those without MS. This indicates that MS can lower life expectancy, but many individuals with the condition still live into their 70s.
Although multiple sclerosis itself is not fatal, severe MS can cause complications due to chest or bladder infections and swallowing difficulties. Disease-modifying therapies, corticosteroids, and counselling can help manage symptoms. With advancements in treatment, many people with this condition can lead productive lives now.
4. Lupus
Systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly known as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes widespread inflammation and pain throughout the body. It’s estimated to affect around 1.5 million people in the UK, with women, particularly those aged between 15 and 45, being more likely to be diagnosed. Common lupus symptoms include rashes, joint pain, fever, and persistent fatigue.
Certain types of lupus, such as lupus nephritis, can cause serious complications like kidney damage, heart problems, and increased infection risk, which can be life-threatening. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing organ damage, typically using anti-inflammatory medications, hydroxychloroquine, and steroids. Thanks to advancements in treatment and earlier diagnosis, many people now enjoy longer, healthier lives.
5. Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis
In this autoimmune disorder, the antibodies produced by the immune system attack the NMDA receptors located in the brain, which plays a critical role in memory. It mainly affects young people, with about forty per cent of the cases being under 18 years of age. Also, women are more likely to get this condition than men.
Often, the initial symptoms are less severe and quickly progress to a stage requiring hospitalisation. The common symptoms are problems with speech, seizures, problems with cognition, loss of consciousness, changes in behaviour, and abnormal movements in the arms, mouth, and legs. Some people with this disorder also have a tumour, most commonly ovarian teratoma in women. Approximately 50% of patients have a tumour, most commonly an ovarian teratoma in women, which can impact prognosis and treatment outcomes.
Plasma exchange, immunoglobulin therapy, steroids, and tumour removal (if present) are the treatment options for anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. Most patients make a full recovery in two years from disease onset, while around 6% of the patients die from this disease.
Is Autoimmune Disease Deadly?
Autoimmune diseases themselves are not inherently deadly, but they can significantly impact a person's health and quality of life. These conditions, as noted in an autoimmune diseases list, occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, leading to a range of symptoms and potential complications. The severity and outcome of autoimmune diseases vary widely, with some manageable through medication and lifestyle changes.
Certain autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of infections or other life-threatening conditions due to a weakened immune response or the effects of treatments like immunosuppressants. For example, conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis can lead to complications like kidney damage or cardiovascular disease, which can be fatal if not properly managed.
Early diagnosis and appropriate medical management are crucial in managing autoimmune diseases and reducing the risk of severe outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you live long with autoimmune disease?
Yes, many people with autoimmune diseases can live long, healthy lives. With proper treatment, lifestyle changes, and regular medical care, individuals can manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Early diagnosis and effective management are key to improving longevity.
2. Can autoimmune diseases be cured?
Currently, most autoimmune diseases cannot be cured, but they can be effectively managed with treatment. Advances in medicine help control symptoms and improve the quality of life for many patients.
3. What are the worst foods for autoimmune disease?
The worst foods for autoimmune disease often include processed foods, refined sugars, and gluten-containing grains, as they can trigger inflammation. Dairy products and high-sugar items may also worsen symptoms for some individuals, so it's essential to pay attention to how your body reacts to different foods.
4. Can stress cause autoimmune disease?
Yes, stress can contribute to the onset and flare-ups of autoimmune diseases by affecting the immune system. Chronic stress may trigger inflammation and disrupt the body's ability to regulate immune responses.
Fight Through Some Bad Days To Earn Best Days Of Your Life
Living with serious autoimmune diseases can be difficult, but advancements in medical care have improved survival rates for many conditions. There are several ways to help manage symptoms and enhance your well-being. Reducing stress through healthy methods can help prevent flare-ups, and getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night is important for overall health.
It’s also essential to be aware that some medications can weaken your immune system, so try to avoid places where you might be exposed to infections. Learning more about your condition can help you make informed lifestyle choices that may improve your quality of life.
References
- Diagnosis, Treatment, and Outcome of Giant-Cell Myocarditis in the Era of Combined Immunosuppression
- https://www.niaid.nih.gov/diseases-conditions/autoimmune-diseases
- https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9241572361
- https://medlineplus.gov/lupus.html
- https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/multiple-sclerosis
