Thyroid Disease and Depression: What New Research Reveals About Their Connection

If you live with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD), you might have also experienced symptoms of depression. You're not alone—and now, science is uncovering why these two conditions often go hand in hand.

A new study looked at the genetic link between AITD and major depressive disorder (MDD), and the results are eye-opening.

What Did the Study Find?

Researchers used large-scale genetic data to explore whether thyroid disease and depression are connected at the DNA level. Here's what they discovered:

• There is a genetic link between thyroid disease and depression. People with certain genes may be more likely to develop both conditions.

• Some genetic markers are shared between the two diseases. These markers weren’t linked to thyroid disease or depression on their own—but they were when both conditions were present together.

• Depression may increase the risk of thyroid disease. The study found evidence suggesting that depression could play a causal role in triggering autoimmune thyroid disease.

 Key Takeaways for Patients

• Mental health matters. If you have thyroid disease and struggle with depression, it's not just in your head—your genes may be playing a role.

• Treating depression may help your thyroid. While more research is needed, managing your mental health could support your overall well-being, including your thyroid.

• Talk to your doctor. If you're experiencing symptoms of depression—like low mood, fatigue, or trouble concentrating—bring it up during your thyroid check-ups.

Final Thoughts

This research is a reminder that our bodies and minds are deeply connected. If you’re living with thyroid disease, paying attention to your emotional health is just as important as managing your hormone levels. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that help is available—and you deserve it.

READ FULL RESEARCH REPORT

Updates on MS Treatments: Balancing Effectiveness and Safety

 

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) often means making big decisions about treatment. Over the past few decades, powerful immune-suppressing medicines have changed the outlook for many people with MS. These therapies can reduce relapses, slow down disability, and prevent new brain and spinal cord lesions from forming.

But while these medicines can be highly effective, they also come with risks. Doctors and patients must carefully weigh the benefits against possible long-term side effects like infections or even certain cancers.

Types of Immunosuppressant Treatments

There are both older and newer medicines used in MS treatment:

• Older drugs such as azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and mitoxantrone are effective but can be harder on the body. They have been linked to risks like bone marrow suppression, liver problems, and in some cases, cancers such as leukemia or bladder tumors.

• Newer drugs include cladribine, alemtuzumab, and anti-CD20 therapies (rituximab, ocrelizumab, ofatumumab, ublituximab). These are generally more targeted in the way they work but still require careful monitoring.

What to Know About Each:

• Cladribine – Taken as a short course, it lowers certain immune cells and can control MS activity. It has a relatively manageable safety profile but still requires regular check-ups for infections and cancer risk.

• Alemtuzumab – A strong treatment that can lead to long-term remission for some people. However, it carries risks of developing new autoimmune conditions (like thyroid disease or low platelets) and rare heart issues, so very close follow-up is needed.

• Anti-CD20 therapies (rituximab, ocrelizumab, ofatumumab, ublituximab) – These drugs are effective at reducing relapses and MRI activity. Risks include infections, reactivation of hepatitis B, and possible links to cancer with long-term use.

Why Monitoring Matters

Even though these treatments are powerful, no therapy is without risks. Doctors usually recommend:

• Careful screening before starting treatment (such as infection checks, cancer screenings, and blood tests).

• Regular monitoring during treatment to pick up side effects early.

• Individualized care, meaning the treatment chosen depends on your type of MS, health history, and how active your disease is.

Looking Ahead

Research is ongoing to find better ways to predict who will respond best to certain therapies and who may be at higher risk of side effects. With the right selection and monitoring, many people can achieve strong, long-term control of their MS while minimizing risks.

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Takeaway: Immunosuppressant therapies—both old and new—play an important role in treating MS. They can be life-changing for people with aggressive disease, but they require careful medical oversight to keep patients safe in the long run.

Sources:

"Updates on immunosuppressant safety and malignancy risk in patients with multiple sclerosis"

• A cohort study from Palermo, Italy, of 531 MS patients treated with older immunosuppressants (azathioprine, mitoxantrone, cyclophosphamide) found a dramatically higher cancer risk—adjusted hazard ratio of 11.05 compared to untreated MS patients or the general population BioMed Central+1.

• A broader review highlighted that the duration and dose of immunosuppressant exposure, rather than any specific agent, drive increased malignancy risk in MS patients SpringerLink.

2. Cladribine (Newer Immune Reconstitution Therapy)

• A recent expert narrative review concluded that although initial trials showed a slight imbalance in cancer cases, long-term data indicate that cladribine’s malignancy risk is similar to background levels and other disease-modifying therapies SpringerLink+1.

• An independent meta-analysis found that cladribine did not increase malignancy risk compared with other DMTs MSARD Journal.

• Long-term integrated safety data (up to 8 years) confirm a favorable safety profile, with no emerging safety signals over time ScienceDirect+1.

• A systematic review and meta-analysis reported malignancy occurrence in only ~0.4% of cladribine-treated patients—a reassuringly low rate SpringerLink.

• Regulatory and approval history, along with comparative malignancy risk data, are also discussed in sources like the Wikipedia summary for cladribine Wikipedia.

3. Anti-CD20 Monoclonal Antibodies (Ocrelizumab, Rituximab, etc.)

• Ocrelizumab’s safety profile includes increased infections, hepatitis B reactivation, and signs of higher malignancy incidence, specifically more breast cancer cases in clinical trials compared to placebo or other treatments Wikipedia.

• (Additional sources may cover rituximab and ofatumumab, but aren't explicitly cited here—let me know if you'd like those added.)

4. General Safety, Monitoring, and Mechanistic Context

• A review in Neurotherapeutics notes that MS differs from other autoimmune diseases in baseline cancer risk, but managing safety remains critical given immunosuppressants’ inherent risks neurotherapeuticsjournal.org.

• A comprehensive overview of MS immunosuppressants outlines potential complications—from infections to malignancy—and examines individualized risk-benefit balances SAGE Journals.

• An immunology-focused review warns that while immunosuppression controls MS inflammation, the immune system plays a key role in preventing cancer, raising concerns about DMT-induced changes Frontiers.

Practical Steps for Managing an Autoimmune Disease

Living with any autoimmune disease, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes or Sjogren's Disease, requires proactive management to maintain your health and quality of life. Below are general steps to help you navigate your condition effectively:

1. Stay Informed About Your Condition and Research
   Keep yourself updated on your autoimmune disease and emerging treatments, such as regulatory T cell (Treg) therapies, through reputable sources. Join patient advocacy groups like the Lupus Foundation of America, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, or Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation for reliable information and support. Discuss potential clinical trials or new therapies with your healthcare provider to explore future treatment options.

2. Communicate Regularly with Your Healthcare Team
   Schedule regular check-ins with your doctor (e.g., rheumatologist, endocrinologist, or other specialists) to monitor your condition and discuss new symptoms, treatment adjustments, or emerging research like Treg-based therapies. Ask specific questions about how new findings might apply to your disease and whether they could impact your treatment plan in the future.

3. Adhere to Your Prescribed Treatment Plan
   Follow your doctor’s recommendations for medications, such as immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatories, or biologics, to manage symptoms and prevent flares. Report any side effects promptly and don’t skip doses, as consistency is key to controlling disease activity.

4. Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle
   If appropriate for your condition, consider an anti-inflammatory diet (e.g., Mediterranean-style, rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil or fish). Consult a dietitian to ensure it suits your needs, as dietary triggers vary (e.g., gluten for celiac disease). Incorporate low-impact exercise like walking or yoga to support joint health and reduce stress, but avoid overexertion, which can trigger flares.

5. Manage Stress and Mental Health
   Chronic illness can impact mental health, increasing risks of anxiety or depression. Practice stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or gentle stretching. Consider connecting with a therapist or support group to share experiences and coping strategies with others who understand your challenges.

6. Monitor Symptoms and Track Triggers
   Keep a journal to track symptoms, flares, and potential triggers (e.g., stress, foods, or weather changes). Share this with your doctor to identify patterns and adjust your management plan. Being proactive about recognizing early warning signs can help prevent severe flares.

7. Build a Support Network
   Surround yourself with supportive family, friends, or community groups who understand your condition. Online or in-person support groups for your specific autoimmune disease can provide emotional support and practical tips for daily living.

By following these steps, you can take control of your health, stay informed about advancements like Treg-based therapies, and work closely with your healthcare team to manage your autoimmune disease effectively. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your treatment or lifestyle.

Specific help for:

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

ACR Guidelines for living with Rheumatoid Arthritis 

Sjogren's info has hundreds of articles for managing and understanding Sjogren's Disease.

Living with the Fatigue of Autoimmune Disease - 10 tips

Nourishing from the Inside: Food Sources of Vitamin D

While sunshine is the most well-known source of vitamin D, many people with autoimmune disease — especially those with fatigue, or sun sensitivity—may struggle to get enough through sunlight alone. Thankfully, certain foods can help bridge the gap.

Here are some naturally rich and fortified sources of vitamin D:

Food	Type of Vitamin D	Approximate Amount per Serving
Salmon (wild-caught, cooked)	D3	600–1000 IU per 100g
Sardines (canned in oil)	D3	270 IU per 100g
Cod liver oil	D3	~450 IU per teaspoon
Egg yolks	D3	~40 IU per yolk
Mushrooms (UV-exposed)	D2	400–500 IU per 100g
Fortified plant milks (almond, oat, soy)	D2 or D3	100–150 IU per cup
Fortified cereals	D2 or D3	40–100 IU per serving

Tips for absorption:

• Vitamin D is fat-soluble, so pair it with healthy fats (like avocado, olive oil, or nuts) to boost uptake.

• If you’re vegetarian or vegan, UV-exposed mushrooms and fortified plant-based products are especially helpful.

Note for Australians: Even in sunny places like Sydney, vitamin D deficiency is common—especially in winter, or for those with autoimmune conditions. Food sources can offer gentle, consistent support alongside supplementation.

10 Tips for Living with Autoimmune Disease Fatigue

Living with autoimmune disease fatigue is tough, but I’ve found ways to manage my energy and improve my day-to-day life. Here are 10 tips that work for me, with some notes on how I put them into practice and why they help. Number 2 and 3 have been so helpful in reducing the extreme fatigue I use to have constantly. 

1. Prioritize Restful Sleep
   This is somethin that we hear is so important  - aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night. I know I feel better when I get these 8 hour nights but they rarely happen for me. I am struggling with sleep apnea, a new CPAP machine, and strange night time sensations. I am doing all the suggested things - I stick to a consistent bedtime routine, dim lights, no screens an hour before bed, and a cozy bedroom setup with soft bedding. At least I am trying. I'll write more about my sleep issues another time. 

2. Pace Myself
   I use the "spoon theory" to budget my energy. I break tasks into small chunks, like doing laundry in stages over a few days. This keeps me from crashing and lets me accomplish what’s most important without feeling overwhelmed. Pacing has been one of the most difficult things to learn but so beneficial. 

3. Incorporate Gentle Movement
   I do short yoga sessions or a 10-minute walk when I’m up for it. I start with just a few stretches on rough days, and it boosts my mood and energy without wiping me out. It’s like a gentle nudge to my system.

4. Optimize Nutrition
   I focus on anti-inflammatory foods—lots of veggies, salmon, and nuts—and avoid sugar and processed junk. Meal prepping simple dishes like quinoa bowls saves energy, and I notice less brain fog when I eat this way.

5. Stay Hydrated
   I se to keep a water bottle with me and sip 8-10 cups a day. Now that I am retired I keep a bottle in my car and have a glass of water every time I walk into the kitchen and when taking tablets twice a day and that results in around 8 glasses a day. Staying hydrated keeps my headaches at bay and helps my body function better, especially when fatigue feels like it’s dragging me down.

6. Manage Stress
   Stress makes my fatigue worse, so I carve out time for myself and this includes mindfulness. I do five minutes of deep breathing or a quick meditation daily. It calms my nerves and helps me feel like I have more control over my energy. I also have created a small comfy seating area just for me on my patio where I can quietly sit and watch the clouds and the birds and read a book. 

7. Use Energy-Saving Tools
   I rely on tools like a lightweight vacuum or pre-chopped veggies to make tasks easier. These save my energy for things I enjoy, like spending time with friends, instead of wasting it on chores.

8. Schedule Rest Breaks
   I plan a quiet time every afternoon. I set my phone alarm in case I fall asleep. These breaks are essential to get through the rest of the my day without feeling like I’m running on empty. They are part of my pacing strategy.

9. Communicate Needs
   I’m honest with my loved ones about my limits. I’ll say, “I need to sit this one out,” or ask for help with heavy tasks. It reduces stress and helps me focus on what I can handle. It's taken a long while to be able to do this, but it helps me and no one else understands me better than me!

10. Work with Healthcare Providers
    I check in with my doctors regularly to tweak my treatment plan. We’ve explored supplements like vitamin D, which helped my energy a bit. Having a supportive medical team keeps me on track and hopeful.

These are my go-to strategies, but everyone’s different. I always check with my doctor before making big changes to make sure they fit my specific conditions.

How Certain Genes Might Influence Autoimmune Diseases

 Autoimmune diseases happen when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Researchers have been studying whether specific gene variations, called polymorphisms, make people more likely to develop these conditions. This blog post simplifies a recent study that looked at two gene variations—FCGR2A rs1801274 and FCGR3A rs396991—and their connection to autoimmune diseases like immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

What Was the Study About?

The study combined data from multiple research papers over the last 20 years to see if these two gene variations increase the risk of autoimmune diseases. The researchers focused on two specific changes in the genes:

• FCGR2A rs1801274 (H131R): A variation in the FCGR2A gene.

• FCGR3A rs396991 (F158V): A variation in the FCGR3A gene.

They used four different ways to analyze the data, called genetic models, to check how these variations might affect disease risk.

Key Findings

FCGR3A F158V and Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)

The study found that people with the FCGR3A V158 variation have a higher chance of developing ITP, a condition where the immune system destroys platelets, leading to bleeding issues. This link was consistent across all four genetic models. For example:

• People with one or two copies of the V158 variation were about 2.7 times more likely to have ITP compared to those without it.

• The V158 variation itself was nearly twice as common in people with ITP.

FCGR3A F158V and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

The V158 variation was also linked to a slightly higher risk of rheumatoid arthritis, a disease that causes joint pain and swelling. The connection was weaker than for ITP but still significant in two of the genetic models.

FCGR2A H131R and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Interestingly, the FCGR2A R131 variation seemed to protect against rheumatoid arthritis. People with this variation had a slightly lower chance of developing RA compared to those without it.

What Does This Mean?

The FCGR3A V158 variation may increase the risk of certain autoimmune diseases like ITP and RA, but it’s only part of the story. Other factors, like additional genes or environmental triggers, likely play a role too. On the other hand, the FCGR2A R131 variation might lower the risk of RA, which is a promising clue for future research.

Why Is This Important?

Understanding how these gene variations affect autoimmune diseases could help scientists develop better treatments or even predict who’s at risk. However, it’s tricky to figure out exactly how much a single gene contributes to a complex disease.

This study gives us a clearer picture of how specific genes might influence autoimmune diseases, but there’s still a lot to learn!

READ SOURCE

Vitamin D and Its Link to Lupus (SLE)

A study, published on July 31, 2025, explores how Vitamin D levels relate to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease.

Researchers reviewed 43 studies involving 2,940 SLE patients and 2,458 healthy people to understand Vitamin D’s role in lupus risk and severity.

Key Findings:

• Lower Vitamin D in SLE Patients: People with SLE had much lower Vitamin D levels (by about 10 ng/mL) compared to healthy individuals.

• Link to Disease Severity: Lower Vitamin D levels were tied to worse lupus symptoms, as measured by the SLEDAI score (a tool to assess lupus activity).

• Impact on Immune Markers: Low Vitamin D was linked to higher levels of anti-dsDNA antibodies (a marker of lupus activity) and lower levels of C3 and C4 (proteins that help the immune system). Higher Vitamin D levels were associated with better C3 and C4 levels.

• Study Quality: The studies were evaluated for quality, and while results were consistent, some limitations like study biases and language restrictions suggest caution in interpreting the findings.

Conclusion: Low Vitamin D levels are strongly linked to a higher risk and worse symptoms of lupus. Maintaining healthy Vitamin D levels may help manage lupus, but more research is needed to confirm these findings due to some inconsistencies in the studies.

Source: DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.70379

A Chinese Girl with NMOSD and Sjögren’s: case report

Case Report: A Chinese Girl with NMOSD and Sjögren’s Disease

This case involves a 14-year-old Chinese girl diagnosed with two rare autoimmune diseases: neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and primary Sjögren’s. NMOSD is a condition where the immune system attacks the central nervous system, particularly the optic nerves and spinal cord, causing symptoms like vision loss and pain. Sjögren’s is another autoimmune disorder that typically affects moisture-producing glands, like those for saliva and tears, but can also impact other organs.

What Happened?

- At age 11, the girl experienced sudden headaches, painful eye movements, and vision loss in her right eye. Tests showed she had NMOSD, confirmed by the presence of specific antibodies (AQP4-IgG) and MRI findings showing inflammation in her optic nerve.

- She was treated with strong anti-inflammatory drugs (methylprednisolone) and immune system support (immunoglobulin), which helped restore her vision. She was then put on long-term medications (prednisone and mycophenolate mofetil) to prevent further attacks.

- Later, tests showed she had elevated liver enzymes (ALT and AST), which led to further investigation. A biopsy of her salivary gland revealed signs of Sjögren’s, confirmed by specific antibodies (anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB). She met the official criteria for primary Sjogren's diagnosis.

- Because her liver enzymes remained high, her medication was switched from mycophenolate mofetil to tacrolimus, which normalized her liver function. She has not had any NMOSD relapses since the initial episode.

Why Is This Important?

- NMOSD and primary Sjögren’s are rare in children, and having both together is even rarer. This case shows the importance of checking for other autoimmune diseases in kids with NMOSD, as they can have additional conditions like Sjögren’s that need specific treatment.

- Regular testing for antibodies (like ANA or others) can help doctors catch these conditions early, improving treatment and quality of life. If someone with Sjögren’sdevelops neurological symptoms, testing for NMOSD is critical to avoid missing the diagnosis.

SOURCE: A Chinese girl with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder coexisting with primary Sjogren’s syndrome: a case report and literature review.

What is Pediatric Autoimmune Disease?

Pediatric autoimmune diseases are conditions where a child’s immune system mistakenly attacks their own body’s healthy cells, tissues, or organs — thinking they’re harmful invaders.

These diseases can affect many parts of the body, including the joints, skin, brain, gut, and vital organs. Symptoms vary widely depending on which area is affected.

Common Pediatric Autoimmune Diseases

1. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
   Inflammation in the joints causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.

2. Type 1 Diabetes
   The immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

3. Pediatric Lupus (SLE)
   Affects skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs.

4. PANS/PANDAS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome)
   Sudden OCD or tics after an infection (often strep).

5. Celiac Disease
   The immune system reacts to gluten, damaging the intestines.

6. Autoimmune Hepatitis, Thyroiditis, Vitiligo
   Other less common autoimmune types affecting liver, hormones, or skin pigmentation.

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Ongoing fevers with no infection

• Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness

• Extreme fatigue or weakness

• Sudden behavioral changes or tics (as in PANS/PANDAS)

• Skin rashes, mouth sores, or sun sensitivity

• Stomach pain, diarrhea, or weight loss

What Causes It?

There’s no single cause, but common factors include:

• Genetics (family history of autoimmune conditions)

• Environmental triggers (infections, stress, diet)

• Overactive or misdirected immune response

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis can be complex and may involve:

• Blood tests (e.g. ANA, inflammation markers)

• Imaging (e.g. X-rays or MRIs for joint issues)

• Specialist assessments (pediatric rheumatologists, endocrinologists, neurologists)

Treatment goals:

• Control immune activity

• Reduce inflammation

• Manage symptoms (pain, fatigue, organ damage)

• Maintain normal growth and development

Common treatments:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs

• Immunosuppressants

• Biologic therapies

• Diet and lifestyle changes

• Mental health support

Living with a Pediatric Autoimmune Disease

• Early diagnosis = better outcomes

• Many children go into remission or live full lives with good care

• Support is key: physical, emotional, educational

• Advocacy and awareness help reduce stigma and improve research

🔗 Support Resources

• Arthritis Foundation – Kids Get Arthritis Too

• Lupus Foundation of America

• JDRF – Type 1 Diabetes

• PANDAS Network

• Local pediatric hospitals and chronic illness support groups