Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks and destroys healthy cells in your body. Your immune system is set up to fight disease. When you are infected by an autoimmune disorder, your body mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. Autoimmune diseases can affect many parts of your body including your nerves, muscles, and endocrine system.
According to the website www.WomensHealth.gov there are over 80 types of autoimmune disorders. Autoimmune disorders are difficult for doctors to diagnose because many of the symptoms are similar to those of other disorders. Womenhealth.gov provides information for some of the most common autoimmune diseases and their corresponding symptoms.
The most common autoimmune diseases include:
- An underactive thyroid, also known as Hashimotos thyroiditis.
- An overactive thyroid also known as Graves Disease.
- Lupus
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
Each autoimmune 
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Sensitivity to cold
- Weight gain
- Muscle weakness
- Dry hair
- Insomnia
- Light menstrual periods
- Fine, brittle hair
- Swelling and damage to joints, skin, kidneys, heart and lungs
- Muscle pain
WomensHealth.gov recommends that you see your doctor if you are experiencing any or all of these symptoms. If you are diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, WomensHealth.gov makes the following suggestions to help ease your discomfort:
- Keep your immune system as healthy as possible by eating a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and other nutrient-rich foods.
- Do 30 minutes of exercise per day.
- Get at least seven hours of sleep per night.
- Reduce your stress level
