Often-Missed Symptoms Pointing Towards Autoimmune Disease

Lisette Marie

53. Sensation of a Lump in the Throat

Sad asian woman rubbing her throat, home interior. Photo Credit: Envato @Prostock-studio

A persistent feeling of having a lump in your throat, a sensation known as globus sensation, can be a surprising sign of an autoimmune thyroid condition, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis. This isn't a physical obstruction, but rather a feeling of pressure or tightness that can make swallowing feel difficult. It's caused by the inflammation and swelling of the thyroid gland, which is located at the base of your neck. If you’ve ruled out acid reflux and this sensation persists, it could be your thyroid gland quietly signaling that it’s under attack from your own immune system.

54. White Patches of Skin

Mature adult man massaging face rubbing cream. Photo Credit: Envato @boomeart

The sudden appearance of milky-white patches on your skin, often on your face, hands, or feet, could be a symptom of vitiligo, an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce skin pigment. While not physically painful, these patches can be a significant cosmetic concern and are a clear indication of a systemic immune issue. Vitiligo is often linked to other autoimmune conditions, such as thyroid disease or type 1 diabetes. The loss of skin color is not just a surface-level issue; it's a visible flag that your immune system is confused and targeting healthy cells.

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53. Sensation of a Lump in the Throat

54. White Patches of Skin

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