The immune system is the body’s primary line of defense against infections and diseases. It’s a complex network made up of organs, cells, tissues, proteins, and chemicals, all working together to protect the body from harmful invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
A well-functioning immune system identifies and destroys these foreign pathogens, keeping you healthy. It can also distinguish between healthy body tissues and harmful substances. When an unwanted substance is detected, the immune system triggers a response by producing antibodies that neutralize or eliminate the threat. However, in certain health conditions, the immune system may not function properly and might even attack the body’s own healthy tissues.
Health Conditions That Affect the Immune System
Several medical conditions can weaken or disrupt the immune system, including:
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Autoimmune Disorders: These occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own healthy tissues or cells. Common autoimmune diseases include Type 1 diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
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Allergies: In some cases, the immune system overreacts to harmless substances such as pollen or certain foods, triggering the release of histamines that lead to allergic reactions, which can vary in severity.
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Infections: Certain viral infections like mononucleosis or HIV can impair the immune system’s effectiveness, making the body more susceptible to other illnesses.
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Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders: These are genetic conditions where a person is born with an underdeveloped or malfunctioning immune system, making them prone to frequent infections.
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Sepsis: Sepsis is an extreme immune response to an infection, causing widespread inflammation. If not treated promptly, it can result in organ damage, failure, or even death.
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Cancer: Cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma directly impact the immune system by affecting the production or function of immune cells.
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Medications: Drugs like immunosuppressants, often prescribed after organ transplants, and corticosteroids can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections.
How to Support a Healthy Immune System
To strengthen and protect your immune health:
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Eat a balanced and nutritious diet
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Maintain a healthy body weight
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Get adequate, quality sleep
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Exercise regularly
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Limit alcohol consumption
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Quit smoking
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Stay updated on vaccinations
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Go for regular health screenings
Annual health checkups such as the Thyrocare full body checkup or Aarogyam test packages can help you monitor your immune health and detect potential issues early.
