Autoimmune disease - the symptoms are real

Often these illnesses are invisible, but the symptoms are real. On this podcast episode, we will look at what happens when your immune system turns on you. I know from experience how it feels to struggle with autoimmune disease.  Those shopping cart memes that paint people who don’t return them as jerks, still hits a sore spot with people who have invisible illnesses. Do you have a bunch of weird symptoms and no one can figure out what is causing them? Maybe your own immune system is attacking you. It’s designed to protect you, but can also try to kill you. Be your own advocate and be specific when discussing symptoms with your doctor. Eight million Americans are affected by autoimmune diseases. The symptoms range from annoying to debilitating. The gut microbiome is thought to be a big contributor, as well as stress, exposure to toxins, infections and sleep. Invisible illnesses can be isolating. Many of us fake being well. Awareness campaigns help spread the word.