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Autoimmune Disorders Specialist

Rheumatology of Central Indiana

Rheumatology located in Muncie, IN & Richmond, IN

Your immune system protects you from harmful substances like germs and toxins. However, with autoimmune disorders, your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body, causing a wide range of symptoms. Rheumatology of Central Indiana specializes in diagnosing and treating autoimmune disorders. Taking a patient-centered approach to care, the rheumatology practice combines medical expertise with cutting-edge technology to help you get the treatment you need. To schedule a consultation, call the office in Muncie, Richmond, New Castle, Greensburg, Shelbyville, or Marion, Indiana, or click the online booking button.

Autoimmune Disorders Q & A

What are autoimmune disorders?

Autoimmune disorders occur because of an immune system malfunction. Normally, your immune system protects you from illness and disease by attacking and destroying harmful, foreign substances, like germs, toxins, and cancer cells.

With an autoimmune disorder, the immune system mistakenly attacks your body’s own healthy cells, tissues, and organs. These attacks significantly affect body function and may even lead to life-threatening conditions.

Though the exact cause of autoimmune disorders is still under investigation, doctors and researchers theorize that the immune system malfunction may be a genetic condition triggered by an environmental factor. 

What are the types of autoimmune disorders?

Autoimmune disorders may affect any part of your body. Currently, there are more than 80 known types of autoimmune disorders, including:

  • Lupus
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Psoriatic arthritis
  • Graves’ disease
  • Hashimoto’s disease
  • Sjogren’s syndrome
  • Raynaud’s syndrome
  • Scleroderma
  • Vasculitis

Because these disorders may affect any body system, symptoms vary, which may make getting an accurate diagnosis difficult. Many people with autoimmune disorders experience a range of symptoms that might include joint pain, low-grade fevers, rashes, or fatigue.

If you feel ill and can’t get the answers you need, schedule a consultation at Rheumatology of Central Indiana.

How are autoimmune disorders diagnosed?

Rheumatology of Central Indiana takes a patient-centered approach to care. The experienced health providers combine their medical expertise with advanced diagnostic technology to help find the root cause of your symptoms. 

During your evaluation, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, and family history. They perform a physical exam and run various diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork or imaging tests.

Your provider may also perform a biopsy to confirm or rule out a suspected diagnosis. 

How are autoimmune disorders treated?

Rheumatology of Central Indiana provides patient-focused, results-oriented medical treatments for their patients with autoimmune disorders.

The specifics of your treatment plan depend on your diagnosis, severity of symptoms, overall health, and personal needs and goals. Treatment focuses on care that minimizes symptoms and prevents worsening of your condition.

Autoimmune disorder treatments may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Corticosteroids
  • Pain medication
  • Disease-specific medication
  • Nutritional supplements
  • Physical or occupational therapy
  • Biologic agents

Autoimmune disorders are chronic health conditions. However, with the right care, you can take control of your life and your health.

Rheumatology of Central Indiana strives to lead you to total health and wellness. To schedule an appointment, call the office nearest you or book online today.