15 signs of a weak immune system

15 signs of a weak immune system

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that act as the body’s defense mechanism against diseases and infections. The system —the innate immune system that people are born with and the adaptive immune system, which develops due to exposure to toxins and microbes. Both parts work together to keep infection-causing germs and toxins. So, weak immunity can make the body susceptible to diseases and other health issues.

High stress levels
The American Psychological Association suggests that chronic stress weakens the immune system. This is because stress lowers the number of white blood cells (i.e., lymphocytes) in the body that fight infections, increasing the risk of infections such as the common cold.

Persistent cold
Most adults develop two to three colds per year, which usually last from 7 to 10 days. During this period, the immune system forms antibodies to fight the virus. However, if one keeps catching a cold or is dealing with common cold symptoms for a long time, it could be a sign of weak immunity.

Slow-healing wounds
When one develops a cut or a wound, the body immediately goes into damage control mode to stop any bleeding and regenerate skin. Immune cells in the body guide this process. However, when dealing with a weakened immune system, wounds take longer to heal. This can make one more susceptible to infections as well.

Frequent infections
Those with a lowered immunity are at a higher risk of contracting infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, bronchitis, and skin infections. They are also more likely to experience autoimmune disorders, organ inflammation, blood disorders such as anemia, and growth and developmental delays. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, some signs of weak immunity include:

– Having more than four ear infections in a year
– Developing pneumonia twice within a year
– Dealing with chronic sinusitis or more than three episodes of bacterial sinusitis in a year

Fatigue
If one constantly feels tired despite getting enough sleep, it may be a sign of weak immunity. Fatigue develops when the body is trying to conserve energy to fight infections.

Gastrointestinal issues
Experiencing frequent bouts of gas, diarrhea, or constipation could be a sign of weak immunity. According to experts, about 70% of the immune system is located in the digestive tract. Beneficial bacteria thrive here to protect the gut from infections and boost immunity. However, low levels of gut bacteria could make one susceptible to viruses, chronic inflammation, and autoimmune disorders.

Cold hands
Inflammation in the blood vessels can make it difficult for the fingers, toes, ears, and nose to keep warm. This may make them turn white and then blue due to the cold. This is known as Raynaud’s syndrome. Here, skin color tends to return to normal once blood flow returns.

Dry eyes
A common symptom of autoimmune disorders is dry eyes, where one experiences a sandy, gritty sensation in the eyes. It may also lead to pain, redness, a stringy discharge, or blurred vision.

Mild fever
When the body’s immune system is overworked, it may cause overheating or a fever. A mild fever may also be a sign of an infection or, for those living with an autoimmune disease, a warning sign of a flare-up.

Headaches
Headaches could also be a signal of a compromised immune system. In some cases, it may be a symptom of vasculitis, or inflammation of the blood vessels, that is caused due to weakened immunity.

Rashes
Skin health is often an indicator of good immunity, as it is the body’s first line of defense against infections. Itchy, red skin or the appearance of painful rashes that take a while to clear up may be a sign of inflammation and a weakened immune system.

Joint ache
Inflammation in the body may cause pain in the joints and surrounding areas. The joints may also feel stiff or swollen. Weak immunity increases the risk of such discomfort.

Patchy hair loss
A weakened or compromised immune system may begin to attack hair follicles. Losing hair on the scalp, face, and other parts of the body may be a sign of an autoimmune disorder known as alopecia areata. Additionally, losing hair in clumps could be a sign of lupus.

Photodermatitis
Those with a compromised immune system are more susceptible to developing an allergic reaction to ultraviolet rays—a condition known as photodermatitis. For instance, exposure to the sun may cause blisters, rashes, or scaly patches. One may also experience chills, headaches, and nausea.

Tingling sensation in the hands and feet
When the immune system begins to attack the nerves that send signals to the muscles, it may cause a tingling sensation in the hands and feet. Most often, however, this feeling is benign and temporary.

Tips for boosting immunity
If one begins to notice some of the abovementioned signs, it may be time to strengthen the immune system. Making the following lifestyle changes and introducing new habits can help boost immunity:

  • Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep daily
  • Exercising regularly
  • Maintaining a healthy eating plan that is rich in fruits and vegetables. Additionally, one should adopt the following practices:

    – Washing all fruits and vegetables before peeling them
    – Avoiding undercooking meats, fish, and eggs
    – Refrigerating food promptly
    – Choosing pasteurized juices and dairy products instead of unpasteurized options
  • Minimizing stress by practicing yoga or meditation techniques, getting a massage, pursuing hobbies, and/or staying in touch with loved ones who can offer support
  • Washing hands frequently with soap and water. The CDC recommends washing hands at the following times:

    – Before, during, and after preparing meals
    – Before eating
    – After blowing the nose, sneezing, or coughing
    – Before and after treating a cut or an open skin wound
    – Following contact with someone unwell
    – After changing a diaper
    – After using or helping someone use the bathroom
    – After touching an animal or animal food or waste
    – After touching the garbage

Popular Reads

Top 6 foods that may reduce dementia risk

Top 6 foods that may reduce dementia risk

Many individuals mistakenly believe that dementia is a disease, but it’s a term used to describe symptoms related to memory, social abilities, and thinking. These symptoms can be challenging to manage and can impact daily activities. However, healthcare professionals often recommend implementing a healthy meal plan as a way to improve management. If you’re interested in learning about how your food intake can reduce the risk of developing dementia, read on. What is dementia? As previously mentioned, dementia is not a specific disease. Instead, health conditions like Alzheimer’s disease are among its most frequent causes in older adults. Other known causes of dementia include damage to the blood vessels that supply nutrients to the brain, the formation of balloon-like proteins in the brain, and the breakdown of connections and nerve cells in the brain. While memory loss is one of its most recognizable signs, this symptom alone does not mean one has dementia. Most symptoms of this group of health issues can vary depending on the cause. Hence, here are some of the most common signs to look out for. Memory loss Difficulties while communicating Reasoning and problem-solving issues Poor control of movements and coordination Disorientation Confusion What are the foods that can help reduce the risk of dementia? Typically, dementia and Alzheimer’s are known to be caused by a combination of several factors, such as environmental, lifestyle, and genetic. Furthermore, developing issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can contribute to cognitive decline in patients. Therefore, healthcare professionals suggest the consumption of nutrient-rich foods to reduce dementia risk as one grows older. Some of the foods that can be added to one’s meal plan are: Avocados Avocados are one of the most commonly known superfoods, which can provide the brain with the needed energy without a spike in blood sugar levels.
Avoid these 15 common shower mistakes

Avoid these 15 common shower mistakes

There is nothing a warm shower cannot resolve. Showering after a long day can be a stress reliever and enhance one’s mood instantly. It also has several other health benefits besides cleansing the body, including facilitating cold relief, boosting immunity, and relieving muscle pain. However, not bathing the right way can give rise to skin conditions such as rashes and eczema. Here are some common mistakes one should avoid while bathing and showering: Not moisturizing after a shower Wiping after a bath can reduce the body’s moisture, causing dry skin, which can lead to rashes and itching. Dermatologists recommend applying body lotion and moisturizer immediately after a shower to retain skin texture and prevent dryness. One should look for hypoallergenic moisturizers that do not have any added fragrances. Bathing in scorching hot water Scorching hot water can damage keratin cells in the skin’s outer layer. Consequently, the skin becomes dry and dehydrated. It is important to balance the water temperature before stepping into the shower. Ideally, the temperature of the water should be lukewarm. Using the wrong towel An absorbent towel that does not feel rough is ideal for wiping oneself after a shower. The most effective way to select the right towel is to check its density, measured in grams per square meter (GSM). Towels with GSMs between 400 and 550 are considered ideal for use after bathing. One should avoid towels below a GSM of 400, as these towels can be thin and rough, causing skin dryness. Moreover, towels made of superior-quality Egyptian or Turkish cotton are extremely soft and perfect for the skin. Soaping the arms and legs excessively While it is important to wash and clean one’s arms and legs, these areas typically do not collect much oil and dust. Hence, scrubbing them excessively can dry out these areas and hamper their natural texture.
12 common signs of poor lung health

12 common signs of poor lung health

An occasional cough or slight wheezing after climbing up a flight of stairs is normal. However, if there is a constant breathing issue, it can be a sign of weak lungs. This can happen due to several undiagnosed respiratory conditions, such as asthma, pneumonia, pulmonary edema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary embolism, bronchitis, and pulmonary fibrosis. Several common symptoms usually precede all of these conditions. Here are a few common signs indicating weak lungs. Difficulty in exercising One of the most common signs of poor lung health is experiencing difficulties while exercising. Whether running, walking, swimming, cycling, or just running a flight of stairs, it becomes difficult to do any exercise routine. Doing any physical activity makes one out of breath pretty quickly. This happens when the lungs are weak and cannot breathe enough oxygen. As a result, the oxygen levels drop, making one breathless sooner. Pain in the shoulders This is one of the most easily recognizable symptoms of pulmonary embolism and lung cancer. It is a sharp pain that shoots up near the neck. Over time, it radiates towards the upper arm and the upper back. The pain starts from forming a blood clot or tumor in any of the lungs’ arteries. As a result, there is blockage against blood and oxygen flow. This triggers the pain indicating declining lung health. Excess mucus in the throat Various lung conditions can result in the overproduction of mucus in the nasal passage and throat, leading to a thick layer of mucus in the chest or lungs that persists for over a month. This can range from mild lung infections to more severe cases of pneumonia. The body typically produces excess phlegm as a defense against irritants or infections. It’s advisable to seek guidance from a medical professional if you experience chronic mucus production.