Chronic fatigue and pain are conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. The intensity of these particular ailments varies. Some are able to cope with the discomfort, or rely on pain medications to ease achy muscles and joints.

On the other hand, a large percentage of individuals plagued with chronic pain are unable to rise from bed in the morning. Many people underestimate the severity of chronic, unexplained pain. The truth is that widespread pain may be as debilitating as other life-threatening illnesses. Those who suffer from this condition may feel alone. Friends and family are generally unable to fully comprehend the situation, whereas physicians may dismiss patients when they are unable to determine a cause.

However, those who suffer from feelings of extreme tiredness and pain are not crazy, or exaggerating their condition. Autoimmune diseases, which are known to cause these exact symptoms, affect millions of people.

What is an Autoimmune Disease?

Our bodies are designed with an immune system, which is intended to fight infections that attack our bodies. However, in the case of an autoimmune disease, the immune system attacks the body. There are over 80 known autoimmune diseases which can affect organs and tissues. Parts of the body that may be affected include the muscles, nerves, digestive system, and so forth. These diseases occur more often in women of childbearing age. In addition, African-American women, and Latin women are more prone to develop an autoimmune disease. Genes greatly affect a person’s chances of developing one of many autoimmune diseases. Common autoimmune diseases include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Graves’ disease. Another condition that affects millions of people is fibromyalgia. Although fibromyalgia sufferers display similar symptoms, many researchers question whether this illness is an autoimmune disease.