Autoimmune Diseases

Shine Health and Wellness

Kimberley I. Shine, MD

Family Medicine & Functional Medicine located in Pasadena, CA

More than 20 million Americans suffer from autoimmune disease, and symptoms can be debilitating. At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, California, you receive the care you need to address your disease. Kimberley Shine, MD, offers extended appointment times and in-depth physical exams to get to the root of the problem. Dr. Shine knows that living with autoimmune disease can be challenging, and she is committed to helping her patients regain their health and vitality. Call the office today or book an appointment online.

Autoimmune Diseases Q & A

What is autoimmune disease?

Our immune systems work hard to protect us from health threats such as viruses or bacteria. However, sometimes our bodies can't tell the difference between dangerous pathogens and healthy tissue. In those cases, the immune system may attack its own cells.

Common symptoms of autoimmune disease include:

  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Joint pain
  • Skin problems
  • Abdominal pain
  • Swollen glands

The symptoms of autoimmune disease can be vague. That's why these conditions are often difficult to diagnose. At Shine Health and Wellness, Dr. Shine performs extensive laboratory tests to help determine the underlying condition that is causing your symptoms.

What causes autoimmune disease?

With an autoimmune disease, your body attacks its own cells. If you have an autoimmune disease, your body may not recognize healthy cells as part of your body. Instead, it sees these cells as a foreign invader and destroys them.

Doctors aren't sure what causes these conditions. However, women are generally more likely than men to be affected by autoimmune disease. Some autoimmune disorders may also affect certain ethnic groups more than others.

In addition, exposure to harmful substances such as toxic mold may trigger an autoimmune disease. During your appointment, Dr. Shine asks about your diet and lifestyle to identify cases of toxic exposure.

What health problems are linked to autoimmune disease?

Left untreated, autoimmune disease can have a severe impact on your health. Chronic inflammation can destroy your quality of life. In some cases, it may even shorten your lifespan.

Each autoimmune disease also carries unique risks. Some autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or Graves’ disease, can be life-threatening.

When properly treated, many autoimmune diseases go into remission. During remission, you may experience complete relief from painful or troubling symptoms.

How is autoimmune disease treated?

There are more than 80 known autoimmune diseases, and each one requires a unique treatment strategy.

Dr. Shine provides the personalized attention you need to determine which condition is causing your symptoms. Once you have an accurate diagnosis, she helps you better understand how to manage your health.

Dr. Shine designs a personalized care plan specifically for your medical needs. Your care plan may include dietary changes, wellness counseling, acupuncture, and more.

If you’re struggling with autoimmune disease, don't suffer alone. Call the office today or book an appointment online.