Frequently Asked Questions
Can autoimmune diseases be cured?
Most autoimmune diseases cannot currently be cured but can be controlled. Many patients achieve remission — a state where the disease is not active — with appropriate treatment. The goal is to sustain remission and protect organ function over the long term.
Are autoimmune diseases hereditary?
Genetic susceptibility plays a role, but autoimmune diseases are not directly inherited in the way some single-gene disorders are. Having a family member with an autoimmune condition raises your risk modestly; it does not determine your future.
Can stress cause autoimmune disease?
Stress does not directly cause autoimmune disease, but it can trigger flares in people already diagnosed. Many patients report that disease onset or worsening coincided with periods of significant psychological stress.
Is it safe to get pregnant with an autoimmune disease?
For most autoimmune conditions, pregnancy is possible and can be managed safely with appropriate planning. Timing matters — disease should ideally be in remission for at least six months before conception. Some medications need to be adjusted before and during pregnancy. This requires coordinated care between a rheumatologist and an obstetrician.
Can autoimmune disease patients receive vaccines?
Yes, with some restrictions. Most inactivated vaccines are safe and recommended. Live attenuated vaccines (such as BCG, oral polio, yellow fever, and MMR) are generally avoided in patients on significant immunosuppression. Discuss your specific medications with your specialist before any vaccination.
This article is for educational purposes. It does not constitute medical advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified specialist. Dr. Keerthi Vardhan, MD (Internal Medicine), DM (Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology), Assistant Professor, NIMS Hospital, Hyderabad.