What can be done to prevent the condition?

No ways are known to prevent autoimmune disorders. Avoiding the triggers can help prevent symptoms from getting worse.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

The long-term effects vary with each disorder. Long-term effects of these disorders include destruction of tissue or a function loss in part of the body. For example, kidney failure is a fairly common problem in persons with severe systemic lupus erythematosus. Those with severe rheumatoid arthritis may not be able to tie their shoes due to the damage in the joints of their hands. Many persons with autoimmune disorders are also at a higher risk of infections.

Autoimmune disorders are often long-term. The courses they take are hard to predict. In severe cases, serious disability and death can occur.

What are the risks to others?

Autoimmune disorders are not contagious and pose no risk to others.