Frequent or repeated infections can be a sign of low defenses. This is a condition that deserves attention, as it can lead to serious health complications.
Last update: November 2, 2024
The main function of our immune system is to protect the body from infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites. When defenses are down, The body becomes less able to fight aggression and this situation is dangerous.
The weakening of defenses can be temporary, because we go through, for example, episodes of stress; but it can also be chronic, as happens with AIDS. While both cases impact well-being, it is clear that the latter poses a greater risk, as the infections contracted could be very serious.
It also happens that low defenses are associated with slower recovery from health problems. This has an impact on everyday lifecausing fatigue, reducing productivity and decreasing quality of life.
What happens in your body when you have low defenses?
We say that a person has low defenses when his immune system,
People with weakened defenses often suffer from frequent infections, such as colds, flu and urinary tract infections. Episodes recur and can be difficult to resolve with usual treatments.
The immune system participates in tissue repair and organ maintenance. Therefore, a problem in your functions will result in constant fatigue, with extreme tiredness, even after getting adequate rest. Likewise, wounds or injuries will take longer to heal.
Having said this, we can say that it is dangerous to have low defenses, since in this situation we are more likely to get sick and contract infections that are less common and difficult to treat. Additionally, we may suffer from long-term complications, such as organ damage.
Symptoms that indicate a problem
Some signs can tell you that there are problems with your immune system and that your body is undergoing changes due to low defenses. Among these, the most important are the following:
- chronic diarrhea.
- Frequent fever.
- Hair loss
- Permanent and excessive fatigue.
- Allergic reactions you didn’t have before.
- Spots on the skin and wounds that don’t heal.
- Bleeding gums when eating hard foods or brushing your teeth.
- Recurrent infections, such as tonsillitis, cold sore outbreaks, colds and flu.
- Chronic pain referred to organs or muscles, difficult to localize to a specific point.
Why are defenses lowered?
A weak immune system can be the result of several factors. Some cause milder and more temporary effects, such as unhealthy habits, while others (some diseases) are dangerous because they put lives at risk.
There are also diseases which, specifically, have a mechanism of action that decreases our defenses. This is what happens with AIDS or some rare conditions, like However, there are other health disorders that indirectly reduce the capacity of the immune system. For example, anemia, malaria, diabetes, leukemia, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
we have to mention it There are drugs capable of lowering our defenses. In principle, we have drugs used for chemotherapy against cancer. In addition to helping us against diseases, they have a common negative effect that reduces the production of white blood cells.
Corticosteroids, which are believed to affect defenses, only do so when we exceed doses. And cyclosporine, tacrolimus and azathioprine, for example, are drugs to control autoimmune diseases which, secondarily, favor the appearance of infections.
What to do if our defenses are low?
If a healthcare professional confirms that we have problems with our immune system, We need to implement some strategies to reduce the risk of getting sick. Furthermore, many of these measures will be useful in trying to get defenses back to normal.
- Make sure you get between six and eight hours of sleep each night.
- Consider supplementing with omega-3 vitamins, zinc or selenium with your doctor, depending on your case.
- Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, or attend psychological therapy to manage stress.
- Maintain good personal hygiene. Wash your hands often, brush your teeth, and check areas of skin exposed to wounds.
- Include foods rich in essential micronutrients in your diet, such as fruits (especially oranges and kiwis), vegetables, nuts, almonds and whole grains..
- Do as much moderate, regular physical activity as your doctor allows. In certain situations there will be limits to respect, since a excessive exercise can further weaken defenses.
If your low defenses are caused by chronic diseases, Controlling these conditions is critical to improving immune function. Likewise, if you are taking immunosuppressive drugs or corticosteroids under medical advice, do not change doses without professional permission.
Just as there are tips to follow in this situation, you should avoid other things, such as the following:
- Smoking and drinking alcohol.
- Eating raw foods, such as raw meat, fish, eggs and sausages. They may contain harmful bacteria with the ability to infect you.
- Exposing yourself needlessly to viruses and bacteria. Therefore you should not go to crowded places during epidemics or during periods of high viral circulation, such as winter.
How to avoid problems with the immune system?
Although there are specific measures to prevent some diseases that affect the immune system, such as AIDS, it is also possible to use home methods and natural strategies that strengthen the defenses. As, You will reduce the risk of getting repeat infections.
An interesting option is to follow a diet with a strong presence of foods that improve immunity. The main ones will be citrus fruits (oranges, mandarins, lemons), rich in vitamin C, and berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries), rich in antioxidants. The inclusion of probiotics has been proven some beneficial effects on immunitytherefore they can be incorporated through natural yogurt or supplements.
As for infusions to increase defenses, natural supplements or herbal remedies, among those recommended are extracts of echinacea, ginger, jinsen and propolis. Medical authorization will be required for all.
Having low defenses is a risky situation
Compromise of our immune system increases the likelihood of getting sickwe get infections and take a long time to recover. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to symptoms that indicate a lowering of defenses to take quick measures.
This situation cannot be resolved with home remedies nor will it be wise to wait for it to pass on its own. We must seek medical care to be diagnosed and counseled. At the same time, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet will help us strengthen the immune system.
Emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which can provide essential vitamins and minerals that bolster immune health. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, citrus fruits, and dark leafy greens, are particularly beneficial in combating oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Additional Strategies for Immune Support
In addition to dietary improvements, there are several other strategies you can adopt to enhance your immune system:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to help your body naturally eliminate toxins and other bacteria that may cause illness.
- Engage in regular physical activity, which can improve circulation and support immune function. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.
- Get vaccinated according to medical advice, as vaccines can significantly lower the risk of certain infections and diseases.
- Manage stress effectively through mindfulness, relaxation routines, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy, as chronic stress can negatively impact immune function.
- Prioritize sleep, as getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night is crucial for immune health.
By adopting these practices, you will not only increase your defenses against infections but also support overall health and well-being. Be proactive about your immune system, and consult with healthcare professionals for personal advice tailored to your health needs.