Page 16 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

At present, there are at least eighty known autoimmune diseases, with some being more
common than others. Each autoimmune disease has its own specific set of
symptoms, but there are some general signs that one might be suffering from
an autoimmune disease:

• Recurring, low grade fevers
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chronic tiredness/fatigue
• Skin issues like eczema or psoriasis

• Bowel Issues
• Pain or inflammation in the joints
• Sudden onset of any of these symptoms when previously healthy

Don’t dismiss any of these symptoms, especially if they become chronic. These are
indicators that a larger issue may be going on in the body. Although there are no known
cures for most autoimmune diseases, many can be managed with the right diet and
treatments. There are many natural ways to help treat and manage the symptoms of
autoimmune diseases. In addition, there are ways to avoid triggers that can set off an
immune disease. This book aims to address ways to manage autoimmune disease
naturally, while providing a deeper understanding of several common autoimmune
diseases.

Autoimmune Diseases

Of the many types of autoimmune disorders, some are more common than others. One of
the most common types of negative autoimmune responses is an allergy. Allergies are
significantly on the rise, especially in Westernized countries.

Allergies

An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to something that is usually harmless.
Some of the most common airborne allergies include mold, pollen, dust mites, and pet
dander. Food allergies are just as common. Some common foods that incite allergic
reactions include peanuts, shellfish, diary, eggs, soy, and fish. The results of exposure to
these airborne and food allergies vary. Symptoms of an allergy to common substances like
pollen might include a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and even hives if the allergy is
severe enough. Food allergies seem to cause more severe allergic reactions in most people.
Someone with a food allergy that accidentally ingests a food containing the substance they
are allergic to may develop hives or a deadly reaction known as anaphylaxis.

The truth is that allergies are not harmless and can frequently result in severe damage or
death. Anaphylaxis is a rapidly developing reaction that is characterized by sudden
swelling of the throat or tongue, itchy hives, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath. If

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