Autoimmune disorders cause your immune system to turn against you, attacking healthy cells and tissues that it mistakes for illness-causing invaders. An estimated 50 million people in the United States live with the daily challenges of autoimmune disease.
While you may be familiar with more common autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a less talked-about condition that can lead to dangerous blood clots and pregnancy complications. It can occur on its own, known as primary APS, or in the company of other autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, celiac disease, and SjÓ§gren’s syndrome.
At the Center for Multisystem Disease in Denver, Colorado, Jill R. Schofield, MD, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of complex autoimmune conditions, including APS. With her deep understanding of this disorder and years of clinical experience, Dr. Schofield offers a comprehensive approach, taking the time to identify and address the root cause of your symptoms.
A properly functioning immune system produces antibodies to protect you from harmful substances that can invade your body, such as viruses, bacteria, and toxins. However, in APS, the immune system produces abnormal antibodies that can cause the blood to clot more easily — giving APS its other, more graphic moniker: sticky blood.
For many individuals, the first indication of this disorder is a blood clot. You may not experience any noticeable symptoms beforehand. Blood clots can affect veins, arteries, and organs, leading to serious complications, such as:
While high levels of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies in the blood increase your risk of health problems, not everyone with the condition develops blood clots. Symptoms of abnormal clotting may include swelling in your arms or legs, chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, memory loss, or headaches. You may also notice a pattern of reddish-blue skin discoloration, known as livedo reticularis.
Pregnancy can be especially challenging for women with APS. In fact, the disorder is a leading cause of recurrent miscarriage. APS can also put you at risk of other pregnancy complications, including stillbirth, slow fetal growth, and preeclampsia.
APS is significantly more common in women, who account for roughly 70% of cases. A family history of APS or a preexisting autoimmune condition can also put you at risk.
Even if you don’t have any symptoms, the presence of aPL antibodies increases your likelihood of life-threatening blood clots, particularly with:
Blood tests can detect the presence of aPL antibodies, the key markers of APS.
While there’s no cure, anticoagulant medications (blood thinners) can help prevent blood clots. In some cases, Dr. Schofield may recommend immune-modulating treatments.
With proper diagnosis and treatment, patients with APS can live fulfilling lives — including starting a family, if that’s what you choose. Dr. Schofield can help you minimize the risks with regular monitoring, medication adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.
If you’re struggling with complex or unexplained symptoms that point toward an autoimmune condition like APS, Dr. Schofield works closely with you to understand what you’re experiencing and address the root of the problem. Call or click to schedule an appointment at the Center for Multisystem Disease today.
