Autoimmune conditions

Help managing pain, stress and tiredness when you live with an autoimmune condition, alongside your specialist.

Written and reviewed by Dr Reece Yeo, Integrative Chinese Medicine Practitioner B.TCM, MBBS (Hon). Reece doesn't practise as a GP or medical practitioner; he works alongside yours. AHPRA registration CMR0001952522 . Last reviewed July 2026.

General information only. This page is general information, not personal health advice. Everyone's health is different, so talk to Reece or your own health practitioner before you make changes.

Supporting your immune balance

In an autoimmune condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. Researchers are also looking at the gut's role. Increased intestinal permeability has been found in some immune-related conditions, such as spondyloarthritis, and has been proposed as one factor alongside genes and environmental triggers. [1][2] It isn't yet known whether it causes these conditions, or whether improving it changes them.[3] Ongoing specialist care remains essential. Reece offers integrative support alongside your existing treatment to help you manage pain, stress and tiredness, including a look at your diet and gut health.

This is complementary, supportive care. Reece works alongside your treating specialists and doesn't replace conventional immunology or rheumatology care.

Concerns people often bring to Reece

Hashimoto's thyroiditis
Rheumatoid arthritis (supportive care)
Coeliac disease
Psoriasis and psoriatic conditions
If you live with an autoimmune condition, acupuncture may help you manage pain and stress, and Reece can support you with tiredness, working alongside your GP and specialist.

"With autoimmune conditions, my role is complementary to your specialist care. I help you feel as well as you can, alongside your existing treatment." (Reece)

How Reece works with you

Functional medicine assessment

A look at gut health, food sensitivities, nutrition and inflammatory markers, alongside your specialist care.

Classical Chinese medicine

Herbal formulas and acupuncture chosen for your pattern, to support your general wellbeing alongside your specialist treatment.

Diet and lifestyle

Practical, evidence-informed diet and lifestyle changes that suit your life and your specialist's advice, to help you feel as well as you can day to day.

Your first consultation

Your initial consultation is up to 180 minutes. As part of a thorough health history, Reece will ask about your diagnosis and specialist care, and he'll work with your treating team where it's appropriate.

References

Fasano A. Intestinal permeability and its regulation by zonulin: diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2012;10(10):1096-1100. PMID 22902773. (The author declared a shareholding in Alba Therapeutics.)
Hecquet S, Totoson P, Martin H, et al. Intestinal permeability in spondyloarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review of the literature. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2021;51(4):712-718. PMID 34139524.
Camilleri M. Leaky gut: mechanisms, measurement and clinical implications in humans. Gut. 2019;68(8):1516-1526. PMID 31076401.

Ready to take the next step?

Request an initial consultation with Reece on the Gold Coast: face to face at The Wellness Rooms @ Burleigh, Burleigh Heads.

Request a booking