Multisystem diseases: When the body loses its internal balance
Many people experience symptoms that seem unrelated: constant fatigue, brain fog, digestive problems, joint pain, hormonal imbalance or recurring inflammation. Often, tests are done organ by organ, yet no clear explanation emerges. This is where the concept of multisystem diseases becomes essential.
Multisystem diseases are conditions that affect several regulatory systems of the body at the same time, rather than a single organ. They are increasingly common in modern societies and require a different way of thinking about health.
What are multisystem diseases?
A multisystem disease is not limited to one diagnosis like “a gut problem” or “a nerve issue.” Instead, it involves multiple systems working out of balance together, including:
- the immune system (defence system)
- the nervous system (brain and nerves)
- the endocrine system (hormones)
- the energy system of the cells (mitochondria)
- the inflammatory regulation of the body
In simple words: The body’s internal coordination is disturbed.
This explains why symptoms are often widespread, change over time, or seem to affect different organs without a clear pattern.
Why chronic inflammation is central
According to scientific findings, most multisystem diseases are driven by chronic inflammation.
Chronic inflammation does not mean a visible infection or acute illness. It is often a silent inflammation, working in the background for years. Importantly, it is not just about immune cells being “active.”
Research shows that four key processes form a self-reinforcing cycle (also called a vicious circle):
- Immune activation
The immune system stays permanently “on alert,” even without an acute threat. - Oxidative stress
This means an excess of aggressive oxygen molecules (“free radicals”) that damage cells. - Nitrosative stress
A similar process involving reactive nitrogen molecules that interfere with cellular signalling. - Mitochondrial dysfunction (mitochondriopathy)
Mitochondria are the “power plants” of our cells. When they are impaired, energy production (ATP) drops.
These four mechanisms continuously amplify each other, making recovery difficult if only one aspect is treated.
Why symptoms can be so different
One person may mainly feel exhausted, another may develop autoimmune symptoms, while a third struggles with gut problems or neurological complaints. This happens because:
- different triggers affect different systems first
- genetic predisposition varies between individuals
- the body’s resilience and nutrient status differ
In early stages, only one system may be affected. Over time, however, several systems become involved, which is why multisystem diseases often feel confusing and inconsistent.
What can trigger multisystem diseases?
Triggers are factors that push the body out of balance. According to the diagnostic data, common triggers include:
- chronic infections (e.g. viruses, bacteria, fungi)
- environmental toxins (metals, solvents, plastics)
- chronic stress (psychological or physical)
- gut imbalance (“leaky gut”)
- devital teeth or hidden dental inflammation
- electromagnetic fields, noise, pollutants
- nutrient deficiencies
Each trigger affects the system differently. For example:
- infections mainly activate immune cells first
- toxins often damage mitochondria and increase oxidative stress
- stress disrupts hormonal and nervous system regulation
Why immune tolerance gets lost
A healthy immune system can distinguish between real threats and harmless stimuli. This ability is called immune tolerance.
Chronic inflammation disrupts this tolerance. As a result, the body may start reacting to things it previously tolerated, such as:
- certain foods
- environmental substances
- stress
- even parts of its own tissue (autoimmunity)
This explains why people with multisystem diseases often develop new sensitivities over time.
How multisystem diseases can be measured
Modern laboratory diagnostics do not look at one value only. Instead, they assess six key markers that reflect the four regulatory systems:
- TNF-α = marker of systemic inflammation
- IP-10 = marker of immune overactivation (TH1 response)
- Histamine = marker of mast cell-related inflammation
- ATP (intracellular) = indicator of mitochondrial energy production
- MDA-LDL = marker of oxidative stress
- Nitrotyrosine = marker of nitrosative stress
Looking at these markers together helps identify:
- whether a multisystem disease is present
- which systems are most affected
- which triggers may be involved
- how treatment should be prioritised
Why a holistic approach is essential
Treating multisystem diseases symptom by symptom rarely leads to lasting improvement. A holistic approach focuses on:
- restoring regulation instead of suppressing symptoms
- reducing triggers
- supporting mitochondria and energy production
- calming chronic inflammation
- rebuilding immune tolerance
This requires time, precision and a personalised strategy.
What this means for you
If you recognise yourself in this description: unexplained symptoms, changing complaints, long diagnostic journeys, understanding multisystem diseases can be a turning point.
It offers:
- clarity instead of confusion
- structure instead of trial-and-error
- a roadmap instead of isolated treatments
When to reach out
If you feel that your health issues affect multiple areas of your life and no single diagnosis explains them, a multisystem perspective may be the missing link.
Our team specialises in understanding these complex patterns and translating diagnostics into clear, individual treatment strategies.
You are welcome to contact us or book an appointment to explore your situation in depth.
