In this episode, Dr. Diana Girnita and Dr. Vishnu Devala explore the complexities of autoimmune diseases, discussing their causes, symptoms, and the latest treatments. They delve into the role of gut health, environmental triggers, and the potential of AI in transforming diagnosis and treatment. The conversation also addresses common myths and misconceptions, offering insights into managing these conditions effectively.

Takeaways

• Autoimmune diseases can affect various body systems, not just joints.
• AI has potential but cannot replace rheumatologists.
• Gut health plays a significant role in autoimmune conditions.
• Vaccines do not increase the risk of autoimmune diseases.
• Lifestyle changes can significantly impact autoimmune disease management.
• CAR T cell therapy shows promise for autoimmune treatment.
• Genetic testing for autoimmune diseases is not recommended for everyone.
• Environmental triggers can influence autoimmune disease onset.
• Women are more prone to autoimmune diseases due to biological factors.
• Misinformation about autoimmune diseases is widespread and harmful.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Autoimmune Diseases
• 00:03:00 Role of AI in Medicine
• 00:06:00 Gut Health and Autoimmunity
• 00:09:00 Vaccines and Autoimmune Diseases
• 00:12:00 Lifestyle Changes and Management
• 00:15:00 New Treatments and CAR T Cell Therapy
• 00:18:00 Genetics and Autoimmune Diseases
• 00:21:00 Environmental Triggers
• 00:24:00 Women and Autoimmune Diseases
• 00:27:00 Combating Misinformation

Support the show

More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD

• Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/
• Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

In this inspiring episode of Thriving with Arthritis, Dr. Diana Girnita, board-certified rheumatologist and founder of Rheumatologist OnCall, is interviewed by Raha Saber—a courageous woman navigating life with Sjogren’s Syndrome. Raha shares her powerful journey through years of misdiagnosis, and how she ultimately found answers, support, and strength. Raha reached out to Dr. Girnita after years of following her content on Youtube and Instagram and asked her to share her approach on treating this complex autoimmune disease.

Dr. Girnita breaks down what Sjogren’s Syndrome really is, why it’s often misunderstood or overlooked, and how a comprehensive, holistic approach can make a meaningful difference in managing this autoimmune disease.

The conversation blends medical expertise with real-life experience to shed light on integrative treatments, nutrition, supplements, and mindset shifts that can help patients thrive.

Whether you’re living with Sjogren’s, caring for someone who is, or simply seeking expert guidance on autoimmune health, this episode delivers education, empowerment, and encouragement.

What You’ll Learn:

• The real-life challenges of living with Sjogren’s Syndrome
• Common signs, symptoms, how is Sjogren's disease diagnosed
• Why diagnosis is often delayed
• The role of anti-inflammatory diets, supplements, and stress management
• How to advocate for yourself as a patient
• Expert advice from a top expert rheumatologist on managing Sjogren’s holistically

Check out Dr. Girnita's Youtube channel to learn more about Sjogren's Disease.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnLTV1sl8cpyrIZmRfZ6hHt897QLYJwel

Support the show

More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD

• Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/
• Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Thriving With Arthritis, hosted by Dr. Diana Girnita—rheumatologist, immunologist, and founder of Rheumatologist OnCall. In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Girnita is joined by Ms. Sona, a courageous patient who shares her personal journey from pain, frustration, and delayed Rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis to healing, hope, and empowerment through a holistic and personalized care approach.

If you’ve ever felt lost in the healthcare system, uncertain about medications, or afraid of your autoimmune diagnosis, this episode will speak directly to you. Ms. Sona opens up about her experience navigating months of undiagnosed rheumatoid arthritis, her struggle to find relief within a traditional insurance-based model, and how discovering direct specialty care and a telemedicine-based practice changed everything.

Together, they discuss:

• The challenges of getting a timely RA diagnosis
• Why traditional healthcare often fails autoimmune patients
• The power of personalized, holistic care—including lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory diets, and supplements
• How Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) medications can be safely introduced when paired with patient education and support
• The emotional toll of chronic illness—and how to reclaim your identity beyond the disease

Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with rheumatoid arthritis for years, this episode will offer insight, inspiration, and real-world strategies to help you thrive—not just survive—with autoimmune disease.

📚 Mentioned in this episode:
Dr. Girnita’s book Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis—a holistic roadmap that bridges cutting-edge treatments with lifestyle medicine. Now available on amazon.com: https://amzn.to/3ZVmKpX

🎧 Listen to discover:

• Real RA symptoms and early warning signs
• The benefits of telemedicine in autoimmune care
• Why standard RA treatment should be personalized
• How to implement holistic practices without fear or confusion
• Hopeful, science-backed strategies for reducing inflammation naturally

Support the show

More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD

• Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/
• Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200