{"id":20080,"date":"2023-01-01T17:25:17","date_gmt":"2023-01-01T22:25:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/?p=20080"},"modified":"2023-03-17T14:03:15","modified_gmt":"2023-03-17T19:03:15","slug":"signs-of-a-weakened-immune-system","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/guides\/signs-of-a-weakened-immune-system\/","title":{"rendered":"Signs of a Weakened Immune System"},"content":{"rendered":"

Winter can be hard on the body. However, <\/span>poor immune health isn’t confined to winter. It can be the result of multiple factors, like pre-existing conditions and an improper diet.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The immune system is the body\u2019s natural line of defense against infection, encompassing white blood cells, antibodies, and other components like organs and lymph nodes. We\u2019re all born with an <\/span>innate immune response,<\/span><\/a>\u00a0which grows stronger with time as we get vaccinated and are exposed to various ailments. It\u2019s fully developed by adulthood, but subject to being weakened by things like serious illnesses or unhealthy lifestyle choices.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Since the immune system has such a crucial role in helping us lead normal, healthy lives, it\u2019s important to keep it as strong as possible. <\/span>In order to know how to support it<\/a>,<\/span>\u00a0we also need to be aware of when and how it might be faltering. Here are some of the most common signs that your immune system might have taken more than just a temporary blow.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Constant Stress<\/h3>\n

Have you ever gotten sick right after a big presentation at work? How about an emotional situation at home? According to a <\/span>report<\/span><\/a> by the American Psychological Association, high stress levels can have a negative impact on your immune system.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Frequent Illness<\/h3>\n

It might seem obvious: the weaker your immune system, the less it can defend against illnesses like common colds, coughs or flu viruses.<\/span> Doctors say that it’s typically normal to get two or three colds a year<\/span><\/a> as an adults. But if you feel like you’re always <\/span>catching colds<\/span><\/a>, your immune system might be to blame.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Severe Illness<\/h3>\n

Pneumonia,<\/span><\/a> Meningitis<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Bronchitis<\/span><\/a>, oh my: those are not the kinds of friends anybody wants to make this year. Unfortunately, people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to contracting those infections, which can have serious impacts on the body and may be harder to treat. If you find yourself with a deep cough, chest pain, breathing trouble, a sudden, high fever, confusion, drowsiness, a stiff neck, wheezing or body aches, it could mean you\u2019re coming down with something that requires <\/span>immediate medical attention<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Slow Healing<\/h3>\n

When you get cuts, scrapes or burns, your body normally springs into action, bringing nutrient-rich blood to the site to help regenerate new skin. But a weak immune system means that these cells are depleted, and aren\u2019t as effective in the healing process. If you notice that your body is taking longer to recover from minor injuries, your immune system might need some help.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Chronic Fatigue<\/h3>\n

If you feel like you\u2019re getting enough rest but can\u2019t shake the feeling of exhaustion, your body is probably trying to send you a message. When your <\/span>immune system is tired,<\/span><\/a> you will be too \u2014 your body will try to conserve as much energy as possible so that it still has reserves to fight off germs.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Inflammation<\/h3>\n

A malfunctioning immune system can also lead to chronic inflammation. <\/span>Long-term inflammatory conditions<\/span><\/a> include rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, celiac, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, many types of cancers, and even certain serious mental health disorders.<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Blood Disorders<\/h3>\n

Anemia <\/span><\/a>and other blood-related abnormalities can be caused by an immune system that\u2019s not working as it should. Fatigue, shortness of breath, a pallid complexion,\u00a0 lightheadedness, chest pain and an irregular heartbeat are all potential indicators of anemia, which sometimes can be solved by increasing your iron intake. In more extreme cases, it\u2019s important to visit a doctor for a blood test.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Digestive Problems<\/h3>\n

Did you know that over 70% of your immune system moves or travels<\/a> through your digestive tract? <\/span>Research shows <\/span><\/a>that microorganisms in the gut are crucial to maintaining a stable immune system. When they are disturbed or wiped out, they can no longer defend against invaders \u2014 resulting in gas, diarrhea, constipation, or even other autoimmune disorders down the line.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Rashes<\/h3>\n

Certain rashes<\/span><\/a> can be caused by autoimmune conditions. They can look like red patches, purplish bumps or more. Rashes caused by Lupus are some of the more common skin conditions related to immune system deficiencies, but there are a slew of others. If you notice a rash that doesn\u2019t seem to be disappearing, it\u2019s a good idea to see a doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n

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How to Address a Compromised Immune System<\/h3>\n

Barring any <\/span>serious illnesses<\/span><\/a> that can affect your immune system for the long term, there are many ways to <\/span>boost your immune health<\/span><\/a> from the comfort of your own home:<\/span><\/p>\n