Understanding Autoimmune Diseases and Inflammation Q&A
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly targets the body’s cells and tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and various health complications. Understanding the causes, risk factors, and treatments for autoimmune diseases is crucial for managing their impact on overall health and quality of life. Meet Dr. Nicole Anderson MD, FAAP, IFMCP, LLMD, CPAAM, and Dr. Kelly Blundy DC, IFMCP, DNM, at the Functional Medicine Center of New Jersey to learn more about autoimmune diseases and inflammation. Contact us for more information or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 70 East Allendale Rd., Saddle River, NJ 07458.




Autoimmune diseases represent a significant and growing challenge in modern medicine. Over the past two decades, the prevalence of autoimmune conditions has been steadily increasing, with more than 50 million Americans now affected by various autoimmune disorders. This rise reflects a broader trend observed globally, emphasizing the need for effective and comprehensive approaches to diagnosis and treatment.
Autoimmune disorders arise when the immune system erroneously targets the body’s tissues as if they were external threats. This error can cause persistent inflammation and harm to different organs and systems. There are more than 80 known types of autoimmune conditions, each characterized by distinct symptoms and impacts. Common examples include:
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: A condition that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and potential joint deformity.
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): A systemic illness that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs, often leading to fatigue, joint pain, and rash.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, causing problems with muscle control, vision, and balance.
• Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to high blood sugar levels.
• Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism and associated symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance.
• Celiac Disease: An autoimmune reaction to gluten that damages the lining of the small intestine, causing digestive issues and nutrient malabsorption.
• Psoriasis: A skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches that can lead to discomfort and joint pain.
Conventional medicine often focuses on managing symptoms rather than addressing the underlying causes of autoimmune diseases. Common treatments include immunosuppressive drugs, anti-inflammatory medications, and hormone replacement therapies. While these approaches can provide symptom relief, they often fall short in resolving the root causes that triggered the autoimmune response.
Key limitations include:
• Symptom Management: Conventional treatments typically aim to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response but do not necessarily address why the immune system is attacking the body in the first place.
• Side Effects: Many autoimmune medications come with significant side effects, such as increased susceptibility to infections, gastrointestinal issues, and potential long-term health risks.
• Lack of Root Cause Analysis: Traditional medicine often does not delve deeply into the potential triggers of autoimmune disease, such as genetic predispositions, environmental factors, or chronic infections.
Our Approach to Autoimmune Diseases and Inflammation
At our center, we take a comprehensive and integrative approach to autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation. Our goal is to not only manage symptoms but to address the underlying causes and promote long-term health.
• Advanced Diagnostic Testing: We utilize a range of specialized tests to identify potential triggers and underlying factors contributing to autoimmune responses. This includes testing for specific antibodies, genetic markers, and environmental factors that may influence disease development.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Recognizing that each autoimmune condition and patient is unique, we develop tailored treatment plans that address both the symptoms and the root causes of your illness. This may include a combination of conventional treatments and innovative therapies.
• Holistic Therapies: We incorporate holistic approaches to support overall health and well-being. This includes dietary adjustments, stress management techniques, and lifestyle changes designed to reduce inflammation and support immune function.
• Root Cause Focus: Our approach emphasizes identifying and addressing the underlying triggers of autoimmune disease. We work to uncover factors such as gut health, chronic infections, and environmental exposures that may contribute to your condition.
We are dedicated to offering a thorough and compassionate approach to managing autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation. Our expertise and commitment to holistic care allow us to support you in achieving not just symptom relief but a deeper resolution of your health challenges. By focusing on the root causes of your condition, we aim to enhance your quality of life and promote long-term wellness.
If you are struggling with an autoimmune disease or chronic inflammation and seek a comprehensive, personalized approach to your care, contact us today. Let us help you navigate your path to health and vitality.
If you are struggling with an autoimmune disease or chronic inflammation and seek a comprehensive, personalized approach to your care, contact us today. Let us help you navigate your path to health and vitality. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 70 East Allendale Rd., Saddle River, NJ 07458. We serve patients from Saddle River NJ, Wyckoff NJ, Ramsey NJ, Montvale NJ, Paramus NJ, Franklin Lakes NJ, Waldwick NJ, and surrounding areas.

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