Between 24 million and 50 million Americans have an autoimmune disease. (That wide range in numbers gives you some indication of how hard they are to diagnose and how often they're overlooked). Common conditions include lupus, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Sarcoidosis, Addison's disease, and vitiligo are much rarer.

While every condition causes its own set of symptoms, there are some universal steps anyone with an autoimmune disease can take to make each day better, according to the Office of Women's Health. (Women develop 78% of autoimmunity cases.)

These techniques are aimed at helping reduce inflammation, calming the immune system response, and helping your body develop resilience. But always talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter drug or supplement.

Here are five steps you can take:

1. If you have pain, 15 minutes of meditative imagery two or three times a day may help. Put on calming music. Lie back on a comfortable chair or sofa. Close your eyes. Imagine your pain or discomfort. Then imagine something confronting and defeating the pain and sending it away.

2. Meditation and deep breathing can also reduce stress, helping to tamp down pain and depression

3. Doctor-recommended exercises such as yoga or tai chi may be helpful. Walking, stationary cycling, or swimming may also be suggested.

4. Make sure you avoid inflammatory foods such as highly processed and sugar-added foods, as well as red and processed meats.

5. Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep a night. Having problems? Arrange to see a sleep specialist.