
autoimmune condition
An autoimmune condition occurs when the body's immune system, which normally fights off infections, mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues and organs. This happens because the immune system loses the ability to distinguish between harmful intruders and the body's own cells. As a result, this attack can cause inflammation, tissue damage, and symptoms specific to the affected area, such as pain, swelling, or dysfunction. Autoimmune diseases can affect any part of the body and vary widely in severity, with common examples including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. The exact cause is often unknown, and these conditions typically require ongoing management.