What to Ask Your GP When You Suspect Early Autoimmune Symptoms
- Muriel Wallace-Scott
- Oct 26
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 31
A guide for those feeling unheard or dismissed.
When you begin to notice early autoimmune symptoms, it can feel as though something beneath the surface is gradually shifting. You may no longer feel like the person you were, yet it is difficult to articulate exactly what is wrong. Perhaps you are exhausted even after a full night’s sleep or struggling to think clearly. Maybe your gut is unsettled or your skin is flaring without warning. Individual symptoms may seem insignificant, but together they tell a story that should not be ignored.
Many women between 30 and 50 describe a gradual decline in wellbeing that is not explained by stress, ageing or a busy life. They often seek medical help early, only to feel dismissed because standard tests appear “normal”. The result can be months or years of self-doubt and silently coping while their lives shrink around them.
This guide is designed to help you communicate effectively with your GP so you can access appropriate support sooner.
Recognising Early Autoimmune Symptoms
Autoimmune diseases develop when the immune system becomes dysregulated and begins attacking the body’s own tissues. In the initial stages, this process is gradual. Symptoms come and go, change in intensity, and affect multiple systems of the body.
Symptoms may include:
Persistent fatigue and energy crashes
Brain fog, slow processing, forgetfulness
Digestive discomfort, bloating or sudden food reactions
Skin issues such as flushing, hives, rashes or dryness
Joint or muscle pain that moves around the body
Fluid retention, puffiness or unexplained swelling
Sensitivity to temperature changes and night sweats
Headaches or increased migraine frequency
Anxiety or low mood without an obvious trigger
These symptoms are often non-specific, which is why they may be overlooked. However, when they begin clustering together across different systems, this may indicate autoimmune involvement.
Why Early Autoimmune Symptoms Often Go Undiagnosed
Clinical markers used to diagnose autoimmune disease, such as specific antibodies or raised inflammation, do not always appear straight away. The body can be reacting for quite some time before measurable tissue damage occurs.
As a result:
Test results may appear “within range” despite significant symptoms
Symptoms may be attributed to stress, overwork or hormones
Care may stall without a clear diagnosis
Women, particularly those juggling family and career responsibilities, often adapt and tolerate symptoms far longer than they should. Dismissal, even when unintentional, adds emotional strain to an already confusing situation.
Your symptoms are valid. They are meaningful. And they deserve attention.
→ Not sure how to start that conversation with your GP? Our practitioners can help you prepare your questions, interpret results and explore next steps. Feel free to book a discovery call to discuss how we can help you.
Preparing for a Productive GP Appointment
A clear explanation about your health helps your GP see the full picture. Rather than listing individual symptoms, describe how they interact and affect your everyday life. You might explain that you can complete daily tasks but pay the price with exhaustion afterward, or that you avoid social events because recovery takes too long.
Consider bringing a short symptom timeline and highlighting:
When symptoms started
How they have progressed
What makes them worse (for example infections, menstruation, stress)
Any family history of autoimmune disease
If symptoms are intermittent, photos of skin changes, swelling or rashes can provide useful evidence.
Framing your experience clearly can help your GP understand why you are concerned about early autoimmune symptoms rather than unrelated issues.
What to Ask Your GP About Early Autoimmune Symptoms
It is reasonable to approach the appointment with specific questions. These provide structure and ensure the key points are not overlooked.
Could my symptoms indicate early autoimmunity?
Explain the combined impact on cognitive function, physical energy and quality of life.
Can we run blood tests that screen for autoimmune activity?
Relevant tests may include:
Full Blood Count
CRP and ESR (markers for inflammation)
Thyroid function with thyroid antibodies
ANA (connective tissue screening)
Vitamin D, ferritin/iron status and B12
These initial results can help your GP identify appropriate next steps.
What happens if the results are normal?
This is crucial. Ask what the plan will be if symptoms continue.
Would a referral to a specialist be appropriate?
Rheumatology, endocrinology, dermatology, gastroenterology or neurology may be considered depending on your symptoms.
How can we manage symptoms while we investigate further?
Support should begin early, not only after diagnostic confirmation.
When Your Symptoms Are Real but Your Tests Are Normal
It is common in the early stages of autoimmunity for laboratory findings to lag behind symptoms. If this happens, the conversation should not end there. You can say:
“I appreciate the results are reassuring, but my symptoms are still impacting daily life. Can we plan to review this again if things do not improve?”
Your GP can then agree on monitoring and follow-up, which keeps your case active within the system.
How Functional Medicine Complements Your NHS/ Conventional Care
Functional medicine provides a broader lens when early autoimmune symptoms are present across multiple systems. Instead of waiting for disease progression, this approach explores underlying contributors such as:
Mast cell activation and histamine sensitivity
Hormonal transitions including perimenopause
Nutrient depletion affecting immune regulation
Environmental triggers such as mould exposure or toxins
Post-viral fatigue and immune shifts
By addressing these foundations early, it is entirely possible to reduce symptom burden, slow progression and restore quality of life. This is not an alternative to conventional medicine; it is a supportive and investigative partnership.
You Are Not Alone, and You Do Not Have to Settle for “Let’s Wait and See”
If you recognise early autoimmune symptoms in your own body and feel that something is being missed, it is absolutely appropriate to seek further support. At The Autoimmune Clinic, we listen carefully, investigate thoroughly and walk alongside you as a partner in your health. We work with clients throughout the UK and internationally who feel stuck between symptoms and diagnosis.
You are welcome to book a discovery call to discuss your experience and the most suitable next steps for you. Early intervention can change everything.
