🧠 Ask The Expert: Protecting Your Family’s Health – Understanding Autoimmune Risks & Prevention

Note from expert: Autoimmune diseases are diverse, so there’s no one-size-fits-all test. The ANA test is a common starting point, especially if someone has joint pain, fatigue, rashes, or other unexplained symptoms. But some people can have a positive test without disease, and others may have disease even with a negative test. That’s why it’s important to match the test to symptoms. If you’re worried, start with a discussion with your doctor—they’ll know which tests are worth running. Think of it as a guided investigation, not a lucky dip.

Note from expert: Think of autoimmune disease like the body’s soldiers turning against their own people—it’s a case of mistaken identity. Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune thyroiditis fall under this. Low immunity, on the other hand, means the immune system isn’t strong enough to fight infections—like in primary immunodeficiencies or when someone is on strong immunosuppressants. If someone gets frequent infections (like pneumonia, sinus infections), we think about low immunity. If they have symptoms like joint pain, rashes, or fatigue, we consider autoimmune causes. Blood tests can help distinguish the two.

Note from expert: Autoimmune diseases often have a genetic component—so if your mum has lupus, it does slightly increase the chance that you or your kids could develop an autoimmune condition. But genetics is only one part of the picture. Environmental triggers, infections, hormones, and even stress also play a role. There’s no need to panic or over-test, but it’s good to be aware. If your children develop unexplained fatigue, joint swelling, rashes, or other persistent symptoms, it’s worth checking early. Being informed helps with early detection, which is the best kind of prevention.

Note from expert: For both adults and kids, diets rich in colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats (like olive oil and omega-3s from fish) can support immune health. Some kids with autoimmune conditions may benefit from gluten or dairy exclusion, but this should only be done with medical supervision. Processed foods, sugary drinks, and excess fast food can fuel inflammation. It’s about habits, not strict rules—focus on balance, variety, and real food over fads. And yes, even the occasional bubble tea is fine in moderation!

Note from expert: Autoimmune diseases are uncommon in very young children, but not impossible. Warning signs may include prolonged fevers, unexplained rashes, swollen joints, poor growth, or frequent infections. If your child shows persistent or unusual symptoms, your pediatrician may refer you to a pediatric rheumatologist or immunologist. These specialists are usually found at children’s hospitals or larger medical centers. Early diagnosis allows for early intervention—so if your gut says something’s off, trust it and ask for further evaluation.

Note from expert: Vaccines help prevent serious infections, which can be more dangerous in people with autoimmune diseases. Inactivated (non-live) vaccines like flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines, and pneumococcal vaccines are generally safe—even recommended. Live vaccines (like MMR or varicella) may need to be avoided or timed carefully, especially if you're on immunosuppressants. Always discuss with your rheumatologist or immunologist before scheduling vaccines—they can help you plan safely. Vaccines don’t cause autoimmune disease or flares in most people, and the protection they offer is important.

Note from expert: Autoimmune diseases can smolder under the radar for months or even years. You might just feel ‘off,’ get tired easily, or notice minor symptoms that come and go. Some people chalk it up to stress, aging, or parenting exhaustion—until something more obvious shows up. That’s why it’s important to track patterns and get checked if symptoms persist. Early diagnosis makes treatment easier and helps prevent damage. So yes, it’s possible to have autoimmune disease without knowing it—but your body usually gives clues. Trust your gut.

Note from expert: Autoimmunity is influenced by both genetics and environment. Just because someone in the family has lupus or rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t mean others will get it too. It’s more of a shared predisposition than a guarantee.