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Autoimmune diseases Archive

Articles

Do you still need your thyroid medication?

Diagnosing hypothyroidism can be tricky because typical symptoms (such as fatigue and trouble losing weight) have many other possible causes. Some people treated for hypothyroidism may be able to safely stop treatment with close medical monitoring.

What are the long-term risks of taking the biologic treatment Humira?

Humira can control autoimmune disease, such as psoriatic arthritis. But it also alters immune defenses. Learn about infection, cancer, and other potential long‑term risks.

Can pernicious anemia be treated with vitamin B12 pills instead of injections?

Monthly vitamin B12 shots for pernicious anemia can be a hassle. Explore whether high‑dose vitamin B12 pills or other non‑injection treatments might be an option.

Why do I have a white patch on my tongue?

A white area on the tongue can stem from dryness, irritation, infection, or an immune condition. If the patch is persistent, your doctor should take a closer look.

Is your skin problem actually an autoimmune condition?

Autoimmune disorders that may involve skin symptoms include psoriasis, lupus, scleroderma, dermatomyositis, vitiligo, bullous pemphigoid, alopecia areata, lichen planus, autoimmune thyroid disease, celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and sarcoidosis.

Decoding rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects two to three times as many women as men. Scientists are uncovering RA's potential genetic and hormonal underpinnings, which point to potential reasons why women are more vulnerable. The newest treatments, called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, resulted from research that has teased out delicate differences in immune system pathways. They block numerous proteins that ramp up inflammation fundamental to RA. The wide array of drug options now available for RA help doctors personalize therapies to each patient.

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