Los Angeles autoimmune doctor, Allen Green M.D. treats autoimmune diseases in Los Angeles and can provide you with tools that will put you on the path to recovery. With the right diagnosis, treatments, and lifestyle changes, your autoimmune disorder can be managed.

If you’re living with an autoimmune disorder, it can be hard to find a way out of the cycle of symptoms and flare-ups, but there is hope. Functional medicine offers personalized care and holistic therapies that can help manage Greater Los Angeles patients symptoms of autoimmune disorders and restore their body’s balance.

Autoimmune conditions can be complex and difficult to treat. However, when approached from a functional medicine perspective, these conditions can be managed more effectively. By taking an individualized approach that addresses the underlying causes of disease, treating the whole person rather than just their symptoms, and supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms, Allen Green, M.D. of Center for Optimum Health can help to restore balance and improve overall health. It is important to understand that autoimmune conditions are best treated with an individualized, holistic approach and that early diagnosis and intervention are key to achieving the best outcomes.

Get back in control of your life and start feeling better today! Call Allen Green, M.D. of Center for Optimum Health at (213) 753-0511 today for a integrative medicine consultation.

Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune diseases occur when a person’s immune system mistakenly attacks their own tissues and organs, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. These conditions can affect multiple systems in the body, including the joints, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of autoimmune diseases vary depending on the specific condition, but they typically involve fatigue, joint pain, skin rash, fever, and difficulty breathing.

Some autoimmune conditions treated by Allen Green, M.D. of Center for Optimum Health are:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints. It can lead to pain and stiffness in the joints, fatigue, and difficulty performing activities of daily living. While there is no known cure for RA, there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. With proper management, many people can live a normal, active lifestyle despite having RA.

Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder of the thyroid gland, which affects millions of people around the world. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the thyroid and disrupts the production of important hormones, leading to a wide range of physical and emotional health issues for those affected. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, dry skin, brittle hair and nails, hair loss, and joint and muscle pain.

Lupus affects individuals of all ages, gender, and racial backgrounds. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and often include intense fatigue, joint pain and swelling, skin rashes, and fever. While the cause of lupus is unknown, factors like stress, environmental exposures, and genetics are thought to play a role. By addressing symptoms with a comprehensive approach that includes both medical and emotional support, individuals living with lupus can live full, healthy lives.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells, located in the pancreas. This causes a person to be unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, vision changes, fatigue, and increased hunger. It can have serious long-term health consequences if left untreated, so it is important to seek medical advice and treatment at the first sign of any symptom.

Graves’ disease is a type of autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. It causes the body to produce too much of the hormone thyroxine, which can lead to a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, sweating, irritability, and bulging eyes. The exact cause of Graves’ disease is unknown; however, genetics, environmental factors, and other autoimmune conditions can play a role in its development. Treatment for Graves’ disease usually involves medications to reduce thyroid hormone levels and radioactive iodine therapy to destroy part of the thyroid gland.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and often disabling autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It is characterized by the destruction of myelin, the protective coating around nerve cells, which interferes with the communication between the brain and other parts of the body. Symptoms of MS can vary widely and can include blurred vision, muscle weakness, numbness, loss of coordination, fatigue, pain, problems with memory and thinking, depression, and cognitive impairments. While the cause of MS is still unknown, research has suggested that it is related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as early childhood infections and exposure to certain viruses or allergens.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin. It is characterized by red, scaly patches that are itchy and uncomfortable. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Treatment options vary, but typically include topical creams, oral medications, light therapy, or injections. While there is no known cure for psoriasis, it is possible to manage it and reduce its symptoms with the right combination of treatments.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects around 1 in 100 people worldwide. It is caused by an immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Those with celiac disease can suffer from a wide range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and anemia. Over time, untreated celiac disease can lead to further complications such as osteoporosis and infertility. Treatment involves following a strict gluten-free diet and avoiding foods that contain gluten.

Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the gastrointestinal system. It can cause serious digestive problems, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss, and more. The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Those with Crohn’s disease are encouraged to eat a balanced diet and get enough rest, as well as discuss any medications or treatments with their doctor. It is important to manage stress levels and stay active wherever possible in order to help reduce flare-ups and symptoms.

Ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune disease that affects the large intestine and can cause severe intestinal inflammation and abdominal pain. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis may include bloody diarrhea, fever, weight loss, rectal pain, fatigue, and anemia. In some cases, ulcerative colitis can cause other complications such as seizures and serious infections. Treatment for the condition is focused on controlling the inflammation of the intestines with medications and lifestyle modifications, such as a low-residue diet, to help reduce the symptoms and improve quality of life.

Addison’s disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency or hypocortisolism, is an autoimmune disorder where the adrenal glands do not produce enough of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, darkening of the skin (particularly in the face and extremities), mood swings, and decreased appetite. Without proper treatment, Addison’s disease can be fatal. Treatment typically involves hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, and supportive care. Because of its effects on the body’s hormones, Addison’s disease is often considered an endocrine disorder.

Sjogren’s Syndrome is a debilitating autoimmune disease that affects the salivary, lacrimal, and other exocrine glands. Those with this condition have an increased risk of developing issues with their joints, kidneys, digestive system, and other organs. Not only can the effects of Sjogren’s syndrome be physically exhausting, but it can also take an emotional toll. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include dryness in the mouth and eyes, joint pain and stiffness, fatigue, recurrent infections, and discomfort when consuming food or liquids.

What is Autoimmunity?

Autoimmune conditions involve the body attacking its own healthy cells, tissues, and organs. While the exact cause of autoimmunity is still unknown, it has been linked to certain environmental factors and genetics. In addition, dietary and lifestyle influences, such as smoking and a poor diet, are thought to increase the risk of developing an autoimmune condition. Currently autoimmune diseases affect an estimated 24 million adults in the United States alone, making them one of the most significant public health issues of our time.

Common Symptoms of Autoimmune Conditions

  • Fatigue
  • Joint Pain
  • Muscle Aches
  • Skin Rashes
  • Digestive Issues
  • Vision Problems

Autoimmune diseases can be difficult to diagnose due to their complex and variable nature, but treatments exist that help reduce symptoms and improve overall health.

Functional Medicine Approach to Treating Autoimmune Disorders

Functional medicine is a holistic approach to treating autoimmune conditions that takes into account the body’s physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Rather than just treating symptoms, this form of medicine seeks to uncover underlying causes in order to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses the root of the issue.

This type of care requires an expansive understanding of the body’s interconnected systems, and emphasizes lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, as well as supplement and medication protocols. Additionally, it involves looking at the body as a whole and taking into account how different organ systems interact and how lifestyle choices might be impacting the body’s overall function. Through this approach, functional medicine practitioners are able to identify and work with their patients to prevent chronic diseases from developing by making positive lifestyle changes. By taking a patient-centered approach, functional medicine practitioners are able to better understand and address the body’s unique needs. With a focus on prevention rather than reaction, functional medicine can be used to help those with autoimmune conditions regain their energy and improve their quality of life.

Functional medicine practitioners assess the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, nutrition and environment to determine root causes of the condition. They use tests such as blood tests and bio-markers to gain insight into the cause of the Autoimmune disease. Then they develop a custom treatment plan that may include dietary changes, supplementation and lifestyle modifications tailored to the individual’s needs. Additionally, they also monitor the patient’s progress over time and adjust the treatment plan if necessary. By utilizing this comprehensive and personalized approach, functional medicine practitioners can help individuals manage their autoimmune conditions in a more effective and sustainable way.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) Treatment for Autoimmune Disorders

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a form of treatment that helps to replenish deficient hormones, often resulting from the natural aging process. As people age, the body’s ability to create these hormones slows down, leading to a range of symptoms including fatigue and cognitive difficulties.

BHRT has been found to be effective in treating these issues, as it can help restore the balance of hormones in the body. While the treatment is primarily used for menopausal and perimenopausal women, it has also been recognized as an effective treatment for autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Through the use of bioidentical hormones, the body’s own natural hormones can be replaced and balanced, offering relief from the associated symptoms. In addition to symptom relief, BHRT may also help slow the progression of autoimmune diseases, making it an important and powerful tool for those struggling with autoimmune disorders.

A close-up of a doctor's gloved hand holding a vial a plasma, signifying autoimmune disease treatment from Allen Green, M.D. of Center for Optimum Health in Los Angeles.

Don’t Suffer in Silence

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Dr. Allen Green, Center for Optimum Health

Los Angeles Integrative Medicine Specialist

Dr. Allen Green, Los Angeles‘s leading integrative medicine specialist, blends conventional medical practices with holistic therapies to offer comprehensive, personalized care. Dr. Green’s focus is on treating the root causes of illness while optimizing overall health and wellness. By integrating nutrition, herbal medicine, and preventive care, Allen Green, M.D. of Center for Optimum Health provides treatments that address both acute and chronic conditions, empowering Greater Los Angeles patients to achieve long-term well-being through tailored, evidence-based solutions.

Integrative Medicine Services Offered by Allen Green, M.D. of Center for Optimum Health: