Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: A Comprehensive Approach for Relief Through Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, Reg. Nutritionist, Nutrition Counselling, Integrative Psychotherapy and Functional Medicine in Limerick, Cork, Ireland and ONLINE

Claire Russell MSc. BSc. DipNT. Cl. Med Hyp. Cl. Hyp. RTT. Adv.RTT.,  MNTOI  MICIP  GHR  IHR

Autoimmune diseases are a complex group of disorders where the body’s immune system attacks its own cells, leading to chronic inflammation, fatigue, pain, and a range of other debilitating symptoms. These diseases affect around 10% of the population in Ireland and the UK, with autoimmune conditions becoming more prevalent every year (ox.ac.uk).

Living with autoimmune conditions can impact many aspects of life, making everyday tasks difficult. However, there is good news. Effective treatment for autoimmune diseases can go beyond pharmaceutical management, and natural, holistic approaches involving Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, Nutrition, and Functional Medicine offer sustainable, evidence-backed solutions.

As a Registered Nutritionist and Clinical Medical Hypnotherapist based in Ireland, I help clients manage autoimmune diseases and their autoimmune symptoms, with scientifically supported, integrative approaches that address the root causes of their autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. This article delves deeper into how each modality can improve autoimmune disease symptoms and provide lasting relief.

Prevalence of Autoimmune Diseases in Ireland and the UK

Research shows that autoimmune diseases are on the rise in both Ireland and the UK, with approximately 10% of the population affected (autoimmuneinstitute.org). Women are more commonly affected than men, and these conditions have a significant economic and emotional toll on adults, teens, children and families.

Given the growing prevalence, it is crucial to provide natural, non-invasive solutions that can help manage these conditions. Below, you will find a list of many of the Autoimmune diseases we commonly work with along with how Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, Nutrition, and Functional Medicine can be used to help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

 

Let’s work together to empower you with the tools and strategies to manage your autoimmune condition effectively.

Book a consultation with Claire Russell Registered Nutritionist, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Clinical Medical Hypnotherapist, Advanced RTT and Psychotherapy today!

Ring or Text Claire Today to arrange a chat to discuss how I can help

 

Top Commonly Autoimmune Diseases I have worked with and how I can help with Scientifically Proven yet Gentle Solutions combining Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, Registered Nutrition and Functional Medicine

Here along with inflammatory conditions and autoimmune diseases we work with, alongside Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, Nutrition, and Functional Medicine interventions:

  1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – A condition causing chronic inflammation in the joints. Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy with Functional Medicine helps manage pain and inflammation, while anti-inflammatory diets such as the Mediterranean Diet can support joint health.
  2. Psoriasis – An autoimmune disease that leads to scaly, itchy skin. Functional Medicine, Probiotic-rich diets and stress-reduction techniques via clinical medical hypnotherapy help reduce flare-ups.
  3. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – MS affects the central nervous system, and hypnotherapy can aid in pain management, while nutrition supports myelin repair and inflammation reduction.
  4. Type 1 Diabetes – The body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Registered Nutritionist, and Nutritional interventions such as low-glycemic diets help regulate blood sugar along with Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy to help the nervous systems and help the body systems.
  5. Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) – A systemic disease affecting multiple organs. Nutrition and Hypnotherapy aids in stress reduction, which can alleviate flare-ups.
  6. Graves’ Disease – This thyroid condition leads to hyperthyroidism. Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy and  Functional medicine can help restore thyroid health, while nutrition supports hormone balance.
  7. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis – A common cause of hypothyroidism. Iodine-rich foods and anti-inflammatory diets support the thyroid gland.
  8. Celiac Disease – An immune reaction to gluten. Hypnotherapy, Nutrition along with gentle changes and Elimination diets are key to managing symptoms, along with gut-healing strategies using probiotics.
  9. Crohn’s Disease – A type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Anti-inflammatory foods and functional medicine to support gut health and reduce inflammation along with Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy
  10. Ulcerative Colitis – Affects the colon and rectum. Prebiotic and probiotic-rich foods help restore gut health.
  11. Sjögren’s Syndrome – Characterised by dry eyes and mouth, this condition can be managed through hydrating foods and stress-reduction hypnotherapy.
  12. Myasthenia Gravis – A neuromuscular disorder causing weakness in voluntary muscles. Hypnotherapy can improve muscle relaxation and reduce stress.
  13. Addison’s Disease – Affects the adrenal glands and results in low hormone production. Adrenal-supportive nutrition and stress management are essential for symptom relief.
  14. Alopecia Areata – An autoimmune condition that causes hair loss. Scalp massage and stress-relieving techniques, including hypnotherapy, can encourage hair regrowth.
  15. Guillain-Barré Syndrome – A neurological condition that can cause muscle weakness and paralysis. Nutritional support focused on nerve regeneration helps with recovery, along with Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy
  16. Vitiligo – A condition where the immune system destroys pigment cells. Antioxidant-rich foods help protect skin cells from further damage.
  17. Autoimmune Hepatitis – Chronic liver inflammation. Liver-supportive nutrition can aid in healing, while hypnotherapy can reduce stress on the liver.
  18. Scleroderma – Causes hardening of the skin and connective tissues. Anti-inflammatory nutrition and collagen-supportive foods like vitamin C-rich fruits can support healing.
  19. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) – Chronic, unexplained fatigue that can worsen autoimmune disease symptoms. Hypnotherapy helps in relaxation, while nutrition boosts energy levels.
  20. Fibromyalgia – A condition marked by widespread pain and tenderness. Hypnotherapy helps to manage pain perception and anti-inflammatory foods support symptom relief.
  21. Sarcoidosis – An inflammatory disease that causes tissue damage. Functional medicine focuses on reducing inflammation and supporting organ function.
  22. Polymyositis – A muscle disorder leading to weakness. Anti-inflammatory diets and muscle-supportive nutrition can enhance muscle function.
  23. Dermatomyositis – A form of inflammatory muscle disease with skin rashes. Nutritional support for skin health and hypnotherapy can reduce flare-ups.
  24. Ankylosing Spondylitis – A type of arthritis affecting the spine. Anti-inflammatory diets and functional exercise (yoga, pilates) can help manage stiffness.
  25. Biliary Cirrhosis – A chronic liver condition that affects bile ducts. Liver detoxification diets and hypnotherapy reduce stress, which can affect liver health.
  26. Meniere’s Disease – Affects balance and hearing, causing vertigo. Nutritional interventions and stress-reduction techniques can support symptom management.
  27. Reactive Arthritis – Arthritis caused by an infection in the body. Immune-modulating foods help reduce inflammation in the joints.
  28. Wegener’s Granulomatosis – A rare disease affecting the blood vessels, leading to damage in organs. Immune system support through nutrition can help restore balance.
  29. Eosinophilic Esophagitis – An allergic condition affecting the esophagus. Gut-healing nutrition and food sensitivity testing can guide dietary changes.
  30. Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) – A neurological condition affecting peripheral nerves. Nerve-supportive nutrients help manage symptoms.
  31. Lichen Planus – A skin condition that causes itching and inflammation. Anti-inflammatory diets and stress management help reduce flare-ups.
  32. Pemphigus Vulgaris – Causes blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. Nutritional support to strengthen skin health and hypnotherapy to reduce stress and anxiety.
  33. Thyroiditis – Inflammation of the thyroid gland. Nutritional therapies can support thyroid function, while stress-reducing hypnotherapy can balance thyroid hormones.
  34. Rheumatic Fever – An inflammatory disease following a throat infection. Heart-supportive nutrition and hypnotherapy for emotional stress can help manage symptoms.
  35. Vasculitis – Inflammation of blood vessels. Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, Anti-inflammatory nutrition and stress management can improve circulation and reduce vessel inflammation.
  36. Pernicious Anemia – A deficiency in vitamin B12 that leads to fatigue and weakness. Functional Medicine, Nutrition and Hypnotherapy along with Vitamin B12-rich foods and supplementation are essential for treatment.
  37. Primary Biliary Cholangitis – A chronic liver disease leading to cirrhosis. Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy,  Liver detoxification foods and functional medicine can help support liver health.
  38. Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis – Involves scarring and inflammation of bile ducts. Bile-supportive nutrition and stress-reduction strategies help manage symptoms.
  39. Chronic Urticaria (Hives) – Chronic skin condition causing itchy hives. Anti-inflammatory foods and hypnotherapy to reduce skin flare-ups.
  40. Behçet’s Disease – Causes inflammation of blood vessels. Hypnotherapy and Functional medicine approaches help manage blood flow and reduce inflammation.
  41. Multiple System Atrophy – A progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Neurological support through antioxidant-rich foods and hypnotherapy to reduce mental stress.
  42. Cystic Fibrosis – A genetic disorder causing lung and digestive system damage. Digestive-supporting nutrition and breathing exercises aid in managing symptoms.
  43. Hyperparathyroidism – Overproduction of parathyroid hormone. Nutrient-dense foods to balance calcium levels and hypnotherapy for managing associated fatigue.
  44. Osteoarthritis – A degenerative joint disease. Joint-supportive nutrition, such as turmeric and omega-3 fatty acids, helps manage pain and stiffness.
  45. Neuroinflammation – Inflammation in the nervous system. Brain-supportive nutrients and stress-relieving hypnotherapy can enhance cognitive function.
  46. Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma – A cancer originating in lymphatic tissue. Functional medicine to support immune function and improve overall vitality.
  47. Systemic Sclerosis – A disease causing skin and connective tissue hardening. Collagen-boosting nutrition and hypnotherapy for stress reduction.
  48. Lupus Nephritis – Kidney inflammation caused by lupus. Anti-inflammatory nutrition and hydration strategies help support kidney health.
  49. Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis – Severe skin reaction causing skin peeling. Skin-protective foods and hypnotherapy to alleviate pain and stress.
  50. Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) – Increases the risk of blood clots. Circulatory-supportive nutrition and hypnotherapy to address emotional factors.

Combining Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, Nutrition, and Functional Medicine for Optimal Autoimmune Disease Management and Improvement of Autoimmune Symptoms

By combining Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, Nutrition, and Functional Medicine, for each of these Autoimmune and Inflammatory Conditions, adults, teens and children can address the underlying causes of autoimmune diseases rather than simply masking symptoms. These therapies work together to create a holistic integrative approach that is scientifically proven to improve overall health and reduce inflammation, pain, and stress.

Book a Consultation Now

If you’re ready to explore a personalised plan that incorporates Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, nutrition, and functional medicine to manage your autoimmune disease, book a consultation today. Together, we’ll develop a comprehensive approach tailored to your needs and help you achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life.

Additional Autoimmune Information and Inflammatory Condition Services

  • In-person Consultations: Available in Adare, Newcastle West, Abbeyfeale, LIMERICK, Kanturk, Charleville, Midleton, Youghal, Cork, and Dungarven, Waterford, Ireland.
  • Online Services: Access Registered Nutritionist Services, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy, RTT, Advanced RTT and Nutrition Consultations from anywhere in Ireland, UK, UAE, USA, Australia and worldwide via Zoom, Skype and other secure Video and ONLINE platforms through English only.

Let’s work together to empower you with the tools and strategies to manage your autoimmune condition effectively. Book a consultation with Claire Russell Registered Nutritionist, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Clinical Medical Hypnotherapist, Advanced RTT and Psychotherapy today!

Or Ring or Text Claire Today to arrange a chat to discuss how I can help

 

Academic References:

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  21. Sieczkowska SM, Smaira FI, Mazzolani BC, Gualano B, Roschel H, Peçanha T. Efficacy of home-based physical activity interventions in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2021;51(3):576-587. doi:10.1016/j.semarthrit.2021.04.004
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    5. Conrad, N., et al. (2023). “Incidence, prevalence, and co-occurrence of autoimmune diseases in the UK: a population-based study of 22 million individuals.” The Lancet, 401(10371), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00457-9ScienceDirect+3The Lancet+3The Lancet+3

    6. Singh, M., et al. (2025). “Trends in the prevalence of autoimmune diseases during the 21st century.” The Lancet Rheumatology, 7(5), e344-e352. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2665-9913(25)00039-6ScienceDirect

    7. Abend, A. H., et al. (2025). “Estimation of prevalence of autoimmune diseases in the United States.” Journal of Clinical Investigation, 135(3), e178722. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI178722

    8. Moutsopoulos, H. M., & Mavragani, C. P. (2006). “The complexity of Sjögren’s syndrome: novel aspects on pathogenesis.” Immunology Letters, 106(1), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.imlet.2006.03.001Wikipedia

    9. Barnes, J., & Mayes, M. D. (2012). “Epidemiology of systemic sclerosis.” Current Opinion in Rheumatology, 24(2), 165-170. https://doi.org/10.1097/BOR.0b013e328351b9e1

    10. Jammie, B., & Mayes, M. D. (2012). “Epidemiology of systemic sclerosis.” Current Opinion in Rheumatology, 24(2), 165-170. https://doi.org/10.1097/BOR.0b013e328351b9e1

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    14. Barnes, J., & Mayes, M. D. (2012). “Epidemiology of systemic sclerosis.” Current Opinion in Rheumatology, 24(2), 165-170. https://doi.org/10.1097/BOR.0b013e328351b9e1

    15. Moutsopoulos, H. M., & Mavragani, C. P. (2006). “The complexity of Sjögren’s syndrome: novel aspects on pathogenesis.” Immunology Letters, 106(1), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.imlet.2006.03.001

    16. Conrad, N., et al. (2023). “Incidence, prevalence, and co-occurrence of autoimmune diseases in the UK: a population-based study of 22 million individuals.” The Lancet, 401(10371), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00457-9The Lancet+1

    17. Singh, M., et al. (2025). “Trends in the prevalence of autoimmune diseases during the 21st century.” The Lancet Rheumatology, 7(5), e344-e352. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2665-9913(25)00039-6ScienceDirect

    18. Abend, A. H., et al. (2025). “Estimation of prevalence of autoimmune diseases in the United States.” Journal of Clinical Investigation, 135(3), e178722. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI178722

    19. Moutsopoulos, H. M., & Mavragani, C. P. (2006). “The complexity of Sjögren’s syndrome: novel aspects on pathogenesis.” Immunology Letters, 106(1), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.imlet.2006.03.001Wikipedia

    20. Barnes, J., & Mayes, M. D. (2012). “Epidemiology of systemic sclerosis.” Current Opinion in Rheumatology, 24(2), 165-170. https://doi.org/10.1097/BOR.0b013e328351b9e1

    21. Jammie, B., & Mayes, M. D. (2012). “Epidemiology of systemic sclerosis.” Current Opinion in Rheumatology, 24(2), 165-170. [https://doi.org/10.1097/BOR.0b013e328351b9e1](https://doi.org/10.1097/BOR.0b013e328351b9

 

Let’s work together to empower you with the tools and strategies to manage your autoimmune condition or inflammatory conditions effectively.

Book a consultation with Claire Russell Registered Nutritionist, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Clinical Medical Hypnotherapist, Advanced RTT and Psychotherapy today!

Ring or Text Claire Today to arrange a chat to discuss how I can help