Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune disease has become a significant health concern for western civilizations due to the debilitating effects of both the illness and medical management. Primary pathology of autoimmune disease is persistent inflammation related to immune dysfunction. The healthy immune system activates a well-orchestrated inflammatory response to combat intrusion of foreign organisms. This sequence of cellular activities destroys harmful pathogens, and subsequent restoration of cellular integrity ensues. Dysfunction at any level will lead to development of autoantibodies in the form of autoimmune disease. Autoimmune disease leads to other chronic illnesses that increase morbidity and mortality. Rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and psoriasis are all part of the autoimmune spectrum. Known causative agents include hormonal changes, physical or psychological stress, medications, and diet. Westernized societies have a higher prevalence of autoimmune disease largely due to a sedentary lifestyle and standard American diet consisting mainly of caloric dense, nutrient poor, processed foods. Evidence consistently supports integration of lifestyle therapeutics in the prevention and management of autoimmune disease. Nurses can impact community health by implementing lifestyle modalities through education and health coaching.