March is Autoimmune Awareness Month and a Dallas County Health Department official details how residents can support those in their lives with an autoimmune disease. 

Community Health Educator Natalie Del Vecchio says autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s healthy cells and tissues, causing inflammation and pain. She adds that there are more than 80 different diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and multiple sclerosis. 

While the symptoms can vary widely, Del Vecchio details that some common ones may include persistent fatigue, joint pain or muscle aches. 

She describes the importance of community members supporting those in their lives with autoimmune conditions. 

“These diseases are usually chronic and unpredictable and sometimes invisible to others, so having that feeling of support can reduce stress and improve mental health. And that may also help improve symptoms of the disease. So if you know someone who has an autoimmune disease, you can help by first just understanding that their condition might not always be visible and that their symptoms can change from day-to-day, so being patient and flexible with them when making plans is important.” 

Del Vecchio adds that residents can also offer practical support, from assisting with daily tasks to providing transportation to medical appointments or just checking in regularly to see how they’re doing.