Our immune system is designed to protect us. It identifies harmful bacteria, viruses, and toxins and fights them to keep us healthy. But in autoimmune diseases, this protective system becomes confused and mistakenly attacks the body’s own healthy cells, tissues, or organs. This internal attack leads to long-term inflammation, pain, and a wide range of symptoms that can deeply affect daily life.

Autoimmune diseases are not rare. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, thyroid disorders, and type 1 diabetes all fall under this category. What makes autoimmune diseases especially challenging is that their symptoms often appear slowly and vary from person to person. Fatigue, joint pain, skin issues, digestive problems, hair loss, mood changes, and recurring infections are common signs, but they are often ignored or misdiagnosed in the early stages.

One of the biggest questions people ask is: Why does the immune system turn against the body? The exact cause is still not fully understood. However, experts believe it is a combination of genetic factors, hormonal changes, chronic stress, infections, poor gut health, environmental toxins, and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Women are more commonly affected than men, especially during hormonal shifts like puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.

Modern medicine mainly focuses on managing symptoms and suppressing immune activity. While this can help control flare-ups, many people look for holistic approaches that focus on long-term balance rather than only symptom relief. This is where Ayurveda offers a different perspective.

According to Ayurveda, autoimmune diseases are linked to an imbalance in the body’s doshas, weakened digestive fire (Agni), and the buildup of toxins (Ama). Ayurveda does not treat autoimmune disorders as a single disease but as a condition rooted in lifestyle, digestion, mental stress, and immunity. The approach focuses on detoxification, strengthening digestion, improving immunity, and restoring balance through personalized diet plans, herbal formulations, stress management, and daily routines.

For those seeking natural and integrative guidance, consulting an experienced practitioner is important. Many people turn to the Best Ayurvedic doctor in Ludhiana to explore supportive care options that align with their body type and health condition. Clinics like Dr. Handa’s Ayurveda emphasize a root-cause approach, focusing on long-term well-being rather than temporary relief, while maintaining general health awareness and preventive care.

Living with an autoimmune disease can be physically and emotionally exhausting, but early awareness, lifestyle changes, and the right guidance can make a meaningful difference. Understanding how the immune system works—and why it sometimes attacks itself—is the first step toward better management and improved quality of life.