Autoimmune Disorders

Around one in 10 individuals develops at least one autoimmune disease during their lifetime, a new study published by the University of Oxford reports. With personal and professional experience treating autoimmune disorders, integrative medicine specialist Michelle Sandwisch, ARNP, FNP-C, provides comprehensive care at Origin Medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Call the clinic today or schedule an appointment online to learn more. 

What are autoimmune disorders?

Autoimmune disorders occur when your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, organs, and cells. The immune system protects against harmful germs and pathogens (disease-causing agents). It keeps you healthy and helps fight off infections. 

When the immune system malfunctions, it produces autoantibodies (proteins attacking a person’s own body) and inflammatory responses that can damage your healthy tissues. Autoimmune diseases can be complicated to diagnose and even more difficult to treat. 

At Origin Medicine, Michelle works with you to accurately diagnose autoimmune disorders and develop an effective treatment plan that reduces your symptoms and addresses the underlying cause.

Are there different types of autoimmune disorders?

There are many types of autoimmune disorders, including:

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis causes inflammation in the synovial lining inside the joints, leading to pain, soreness, and limited range of motion. Without treatment, this autoimmune disease can worsen as you age.

Psoriasis

This chronic condition leads to red, scaly patches of skin caused by an accelerated skin cell growth cycle.

Celiac disease

This chronic disease means you’re intolerant to gluten, a protein found in certain grains. It can cause intestinal damage, leading to digestive problems, nutrient deficiencies, and other health complications.

Lupus

Lupus is a chronic disease that causes a range of symptoms, including joint pain, muscle soreness, skin rashes, and fever.

Crohn’s disease

This gastrointestinal disorder causes chronic cramping, bloating, and abdominal pain. Michelle’s firsthand experience with Crohn’s disease fueled her initial interest in functional medicine. She understands how patients grappling with this condition may endure constant pain and discomfort.

How can functional medicine treat autoimmune disorders?

Michelle focuses on addressing your autoimmune disease’s underlying cause through a series of laboratory tests and advanced diagnostic techniques. She uses LivingMatrix™, a functional medicine platform partnering with the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), to gather your health’s full picture.

With LivingMatrix and other diagnostic tools, Michelle tracks and monitors the following areas:

• Antecedents (risk factors for disease)
• Triggers
• Mediators (factors that perpetuate symptoms)
• Mental/emotional/spiritual
• Nutrition
• Relationships
• Sleep and relaxation
• Stress and resilience
• Exercise and movement

Considering all these factors allows Michelle to thoroughly document your disease, triggers, and factors that contribute to flare-ups and unwanted symptoms.

What can I expect from autoimmune disorder treatment with functional medicine?

Your personalized autoimmune disorder treatment plan may include:

• Pure Encapsulations hypoallergenic, research-based supplements
• PureGenomics® genetic testing
• ProLon® Fasting Mimicking Diet 
• Prescription medications
• Nutritional counseling
• Lifestyle counseling
• Exercise support
• Metagenics® supplements
• Stress reduction techniques
• Bredesen Protocol brain health screenings
• Brain health supplements to improve concentration and reduce brain fog

Michelle provides comprehensive care for all autoimmune disorders. Call Origin Medicine today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.