Some of the autoimmune diseases have distinctive tests that can help to diagnose, but others are much more subjective. Some PCPs are familiar with the diagnostic panels and others are not and that affects the time to diagnosis. However, have also run into people with symptoms but not the markers and for those you change diet/lifestyle and use ice/heat etc. to help. I've found that a clean diet and lifestyle that is simple, less stressful and that includes movement helps, even before diagnosis. My advice is to go as non-processed as possible, low sugar and keep a diary to note foods that cause you more pain or discomfort and avoid them. I can have very moderate amounts of potato/tomato, limited dairy, wheat and foods with orange dye. I stick to olive oil or other good oils. There are specific diets that I have borrowed recipes from, but no way I can stick to them. Mediterranean is best. AIP and Terry Wahl's have some good ideas as to foods that improve your well being. Also, recommend the "GERD Triggers" information on webmd.