How to Treat Autoimmune Diseases

Millions of individuals live with some form of autoimmune disease each year. From Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus, autoimmune diseases can do terrible things to the body, producing reactions and symptoms that are very unpleasant to live with. If you're not sure if you have an autoimmune disease, or have just been diagnosed with one, here is some information that one should know about treating it.

Instructions

Go to the Doctor's

• 1

  Make an appointment with your primary physician to figure out a pain management plan. Your doctor may be able to prescribe certain prescription medications, such as Dexagrin, Cortate, Cortisone Acetate, or Alin Depot, to treat the disease.

• 2

  Eat healthy, balanced meals each day in order to strengthen your immune system. Include all the food groups. Since autoimmune diseases essentially attack the immune system and harm the body, you'll want to eat plenty of healthy foods each day, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, to enhance your immune system.

• 3

  Reduce the amount of stress in your life by re-evaluating situations, such as employment and family situations. Having a great amount of stress will only exacerbate the symptoms of autoimmune diseases, which is why daily stresses should be kept to a minimum.

• 4

  Invigorate your body and feel rejuvenated by performing daily exercises. Depending on how much muscle and joint pain you may experience, your doctor may actually advise against exercise, but in most cases exercises are recommended provided that one doesn't over-do it. Simple, yet powerful exercises for the body, include Yoga, Tai-Chi, and even water exercises that relieve pain felt in muscles and joints.

• 5

  Treat your autoimmune disease and your body by getting a full night's sleep (seven to eight hours of rest each night). Most autoimmune diseases leave you feeling fatigued and weak, so your body needs all the rest it can get.

• 6

  Make a daily routine of relaxing and practicing imagery for a few minutes throughout the day. You can do this by listening to your favorite music or even listening to a guided imagery tape or CD. These techniques should help not only de-stress, but also provide you with strength to get through the rest of the day.