What Are Immune Disorders? Understanding the Body’s Defense System Gone Wrong
Immune disorders occur when the immune system — the body’s natural defense against illness — functions abnormally. These disorders can result in either an overactive response (autoimmune disease), an underactive system (immunodeficiency), or a misdirected response to harmless substances (allergies).
Examples include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, immunodeficiencies like common variable immune deficiency (CVID), and more. These conditions affect millions of people and can impact organs, joints, skin, and even mental health. Immune disorders are often chronic, require long-term management, and vary greatly in symptoms and severity from person to person.
As new therapies emerge, clinical research plays a vital role in improving outcomes and identifying more targeted treatments for these complex conditions.
Symptoms of Immune Disorders
Immune disorders present with a wide range of symptoms depending on whether the immune system is overactive or weakened. Some symptoms may be episodic, while others are persistent or progressive.
Common Autoimmune Symptoms:
- Fatigue or chronic tiredness
- Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
- Skin rashes or changes
- Digestive issues (diarrhea, bloating, cramping)
- Fever or inflammation without infection
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Unexplained weight changes
Common Immunodeficiency Symptoms:
- Frequent infections (sinus, respiratory, ear, etc.)
- Slow recovery from illness
- Chronic cough or diarrhea
- Poor wound healing
- Recurrent fevers
Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce long-term damage and improve quality of life.
