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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – Most diseases have a face. Whether it’s Lou Gehrig for ALS, Magic Johnson for HIV, or groups like Susan G. Komen for cancer but one very widespread illness still remains faceless: autoimmune disease. In a recent national study, 41% of respondents do not understand the term “autoimmune disease” and 80% weren’t aware that there are over 100 types of conditions in this disease category.
More than 50 million Americans are affected by autoimmune disease, yet most don’t know much about it and all too often their diseases go undiagnosed for many years. Even among more commonly seen autoimmune diseases like lupus, identifying the specific disease can be a complicated and difficult process. Many autoimmune diseases tend to mimic one another and a trial-and-error approach to tests can be frustrating to patients who are looking to regain control of their health. A recent survey showed that 1,423 respondents reported seeing an average of four different physicians and waiting approximately 3 years before ever receiving a diagnosis. While many autoimmune disorders fly under the radar because they are not life threatening, others are more severe and if left untreated, can lead to death. Regardless of the long-term effect of the disease, the fact of the matter is that the quality of life of millions ofindividuals is affected and raising awareness by sharing what we know is what can make the difference to someone experiencing a health battle.
As there is no “typical patient” for many autoimmune diseases including lupus, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s and others, AARDA continues its fight to bridge the diagnosis gap through its partnership with The Highmark/Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Autoimmunity Institute. This first-of-its-kind facility will be key in accelerating improved diagnosis, treatment and ultimately cures for autoimmune diseases. Through this partnership and beyond, AARDA works tirelessly to combat misconceptions and to empower and support patients and their families.
If you or a loved one is struggling with diagnosing a healthcare issue, here is a quick guide that may help:
- Know your family medical history
- Keep a symptom list
- Seek referrals to good physicians
- Obtain a thorough clinical examination
- Get a second, third, and even fourth opinion
- Partner with physicians to manage your disease
- Understand the long-term effects of autoimmune disease
- Remember: Getting a diagnosis can be a challenging journey