Question 1

What is Autoimmune disorder?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy cells and tissues instead of foreign invaders. They are caused by the production of autoantibodies that target specific organs or systems, triggered by genetic factors, infections, or environmental exposures. The Candida albicans Ab (IgG, IgA, IgM) test is the most important test for identifying immune system dysfunction associated with autoimmune conditions.

Question 2

What causes autoimmune disorders?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune disorders are caused by a malfunction in the immune system that leads it to produce autoantibodies against the body's own tissues. This happens when genetic predisposition combines with environmental triggers such as viral or bacterial infections, exposure to toxins, or hormonal changes. The immune system loses its ability to distinguish between self and non-self, resulting in chronic inflammation and tissue damage in various organs including the thyroid, joints, skin, or digestive system.

Question 3

What is the best test for autoimmune disorders?

Accepted Answer

The Candida albicans Ab (IgG, IgA, IgM) test is the most important test for detecting immune system dysfunction associated with autoimmune disorders because it measures antibodies against Candida albicans yeast. Elevated levels of these antibodies, particularly IgG, indicate an overactive immune system that may be producing antibodies against the body's own tissues. This test helps identify immune dysregulation early, allowing healthcare providers to assess whether your immune system is mistakenly attacking healthy cells alongside fighting infections.

Question 4

When should I get tested for autoimmune disorders?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent unexplained fatigue, joint pain or swelling, recurring fevers, skin rashes, or digestive problems that last for weeks or months. Testing is especially important if you notice multiple symptoms affecting different body systems simultaneously, or if you have a family history of autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or thyroid disease. Early detection through blood testing allows for prompt treatment that can prevent permanent organ damage and improve your quality of life.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of autoimmune disorders?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms include chronic fatigue that does not improve with rest, joint pain and stiffness especially in the morning, unexplained weight changes, recurring low-grade fevers, and skin rashes or sensitivity to sunlight. You might also experience muscle weakness, difficulty concentrating or brain fog, digestive issues like bloating or diarrhea, hair loss, and numbness or tingling in your hands and feet. Because autoimmune disorders can affect any part of the body, symptoms vary widely depending on which organs or tissues are being attacked by your immune system.

Question 6

Who is at risk for autoimmune disorders?

Accepted Answer

Women are at significantly higher risk than men, accounting for about 80% of autoimmune disorder cases, particularly during childbearing years and after menopause. People with family members who have autoimmune conditions face increased genetic risk, as these disorders often run in families. Other risk factors include having one autoimmune condition already (which increases risk for developing others), exposure to certain infections, smoking, obesity, and exposure to environmental toxins or chemicals that can trigger immune system dysfunction.

Question 7

What happens if autoimmune disorders are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated autoimmune disorders lead to progressive and often irreversible damage to affected organs and tissues as the immune system continues its attack unchecked. This can result in permanent joint deformity and disability, organ failure affecting the kidneys or heart, vision loss, severe chronic pain, and significantly reduced quality of life. Early complications include increased risk of infections due to immune dysfunction, development of additional autoimmune conditions, cardiovascular disease, and increased cancer risk in some cases. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent these serious long-term consequences.

Question 8

Can autoimmune disorders be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are the primary diagnostic tool for autoimmune disorders because they detect specific autoantibodies and inflammatory markers that indicate immune system malfunction. Tests measure antibodies like antinuclear antibodies (ANA), rheumatoid factor, anti-thyroid antibodies, and inflammation markers such as C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. While no single blood test diagnoses all autoimmune conditions, a combination of antibody tests along with your symptoms and medical history provides accurate diagnosis and helps identify which specific autoimmune disorder is present.

Question 9

How are autoimmune disorders treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment focuses on suppressing the overactive immune response and managing symptoms through immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or biologic agents that target specific immune system components. Anti-inflammatory medications help reduce pain and swelling, while lifestyle modifications including stress management, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and an anti-inflammatory diet support overall immune function. Treatment is highly individualized based on which organs are affected and how severe the condition is, with many people requiring ongoing medication adjustments to maintain remission and prevent flare-ups.

Question 10

How can I prevent autoimmune disorders?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot change genetic risk factors, you can reduce your likelihood of triggering autoimmune disorders by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, managing stress through meditation or yoga, and getting adequate sleep of 7-9 hours nightly. Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and chemicals, treat infections promptly to prevent immune system overactivation, and maintain a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vegetables, and fruits while limiting processed foods and sugar. Regular check-ups and early blood testing are important if you have family history or notice concerning symptoms.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with autoimmune disorders?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches that support immune system balance include following an anti-inflammatory diet emphasizing fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, nuts, and olive oil while eliminating potential trigger foods like gluten, dairy, and processed sugars. Supplements such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and curcumin may help reduce inflammation when used alongside medical treatment. Stress reduction techniques like meditation, gentle yoga, and adequate sleep are essential for regulating immune function. However, natural remedies should complement rather than replace prescribed medications, so always discuss supplements with your healthcare provider to avoid interactions or interference with treatment.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Autoimmune Disorder Blood Test

What is Autoimmune disorder?

What causes autoimmune disorders?

What is the best test for autoimmune disorders?

When should I get tested for autoimmune disorders?

References

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