2023-11-18 10:00:00
Title: “Signs of a Weakened Immune System: What You Should Know”
By: Judith Braun
Published: November 18, 2023, 9:00 a.m
People with weak immune systems are more likely to get sick. It also manifests itself through various other signs.
The immune system’s job is to protect the human body from pathogens. These include, for example, bacteria, fungi, viruses, pollutants from the environment or pathogenic cell changes such as cancer cells. When the immune system recognizes substances as foreign or potentially dangerous, immune cells are activated. However, if it is weakened, this becomes noticeable through various symptoms.
Doctors differentiate between the innate and the acquired immune system. The former fights off pathogens with the help of immune cells (e.g. killer cells or phagocytes). The immune defense becomes active when germs or pollutants that are harmful to health enter the body, for example through the mouth, respiratory tract, or skin. The acquired immune system works closely with the innate immune system. The so-called T cells and B cells learn from contact with pathogens, so antibodies are formed upon initial contact. These remember the next contact and become active.
However, if the body is overloaded and does not have enough opportunity to regenerate, the immune system is weakened. Because the body’s immune system is still active, but no longer works as well, we become ill. However, if the immune system is functioning, people do not notice that it is constantly active and defends itself against pathogens. However, if it is weakened, you feel weaker and less efficient overall. A weak immune system manifests itself with the following symptoms: Fatigue and exhaustion, inflammation in the mouth (e.g. inflammation of the gums), frequent infections such as gastrointestinal complaints or colds, frequent herpes infections, concentration problems, long recovery phases after an infection, constant tiredness (despite sleep), fungal diseases, and poorly healing wounds.
The causes of a weakened immune system often lie in lifestyle. An unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and insufficient sleep can lead to a poorer body’s immune system. In rare cases, chronic illnesses can also be behind it. Diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer, or autoimmune diseases can also weaken the immune system.
It is important to note that this article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment, or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editorial team cannot answer individual questions about medical conditions.]
#symptoms #warning #signs