Skip to main content
Heart Health

Autoimmune conditions and heart disease

By , Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
Print This Page
Threats to the heart may be undertreated in people with conditions that boost inflammation.

When the body’s immune system goes awry and mistakenly attacks its own tissues, it triggers an outpouring of white blood cells and other substances. Known as inflammation, this largely invisible, insidious process is the hallmark of autoimmune systemic inflammatory diseases (see "Mysterious immune system misfires").

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Source matters. Subscribe to HarvardHealthOnline+ FREE for 30 days for unlimited access to the site – where all content is reviewed by an HMS physician or faculty expert.

With HHO+ you get these exclusive benefits:

  • Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
  • 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
  • Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
  • In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
  • Interactive features like videos and quizzes
  • Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources
Learn more about the benefits of features of HHO+ »

SPECIAL OFFER! UNLOCK EXPERT ACCESS for 30 days FREE!

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

About the Author

photo of Julie Corliss

Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter

Julie Corliss has been the executive editor of the Harvard Heart Letter since 2013. She also writes for the Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Women’s Health Watch, and Harvard Men’s Health Watch, as well as for Harvard … See Full Bio
View all posts by Julie Corliss
Print This Page

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

You might also be interested in…

Inflammatory Skin Conditions: Eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis

The flaking and itchy skin caused by eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis can be very uncomfortable, and often leads to feeling self-conscious or alone during flare-ups. Fortunately, there is much you can do to tame these inflammatory skin conditions. It may take some trial and error, but chances are that you will find a strategy that works for you. This guide will help you understand your options. You’ll learn about what causes these skin conditions; typical symptoms of each; how these conditions are diagnosed and treated; and what you can do on your own (and with your doctor) to manage them.

Read More

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up