Weak immune system symptoms and causes

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The symptoms

Constant fatigue

Frequent colds or infections

Poor wound healing

Gastrointestinal problems such as bloating or diarrhoea

Skin issues like dryness, irritation, or flare-ups

Infections like skin infections and sinus infections

Low mental clarity or brain fog

Sore muscles or joint pain

When to see a doctor?

Consultation Is The Key

When should you be worried?

For some, the only time they feel ill is during cold and flu season, ang0 for others, symptoms are a problem year round. If you have been getting sick more frequently, or notice cuts and bruises taking longer to heal, it might be time to seek medical help with a healthcare provider.

We do blood tests and wellness checks at our London skin clinic to help identify any problems such as vitamin deficiencies. Frequent infections, feeling generally fatigued or skin complaints like rashes or slow-healing acne can all indicate a compromised immunity. Do not wait if your symptoms are beginning to interfere with the day of your life. Addressing the problem sooner can save more serious health issues later.

Advised treatments

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Body Treatment

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Body Treatment

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Body Treatment

The causes

What can weaken your immune system?

Your immune system works hard keeping you well, but sometimes it does not perform as it should. When it is weak, your body struggles and you may get sick more frequently or need longer to recover.

Illnesses such as diabetes, liver or kidney disease weaken your body’s defences.
Certain cancers, especially those targeting the blood cells, lowers your immune response.
Medications including steroids, immunosuppressants or drugs used to treat common autoimmune diseases can suppress the immune system.
Autoimmune disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, where the overactive immune system attacks against the body when it is supposed to protect it.
Opportunistic infections like HIV infection or AIDS that attack immune system cells and reduce your ability to fight infections.
People who have had a transplant take medication to prevent rejection, and that can also suppress the immune system.
High alcohol consumption can decrease the number and activity of immune cells.
Others are born with group of inherited immune disorders called primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDDs)
Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that may dampen the immune response.

The risk factors

Who is at higher risk of low immunity?

Living with a weak immune system means the body may not be as effective at fighting off germs, so they can get sick more easily. You could be at a greater risk if:

You have received an organ transplant or bone marrow transplant.
You are under cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy
You are on medications such as steroids that suppress your immune response.
You have an illness such as lupus or arthritis that affects your immune system
You have constant feelings of stress

The complications

Hidden Dangers

What happens if it is left untreated?

Over time, a weakened immune system can develop a few health issues. Some potential complications include:
- Returning colds, flu and infections.
- Injuries and illnesses may last longer than normal.
- An ordinary sickness could evolve into severe complications like pneumonia.
- It can result in serious conditions like inflammation of the internal organs, blood disorders or even development of cancer cells.
- Your body has to work so much harder to stay well, and that can leave you feeling exhausted.

The prevention

Eat A Balanced Diet

How does healthy food make your immune system stronger?

A combination of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins provides your body with the vitamins and minerals required for a healthy immune system. Nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc, work to help your body to be more healthier.

Result of over consumption of unhealthy foods

Your immune system may not function optimally if you regularly consume fast food or miss meals. You may get sick more often, or feel tired all the time. When you eat healthy food, your immune system protects your body.

Get Enough Sleep

Why is it important?

When you sleep, your body has the opportunity to recover and heal. Sleep 7 to 9 hours. If your immune function properly, it will be on guard and ready to prevent infections.

Little sleep weakens your immunity

Lack of enough sleep can compromise your body’s defenses. You might feel stressed and fatigued, and you may be more susceptible to catching colds. Sleep well to stay healthy and feel good.

Stay Active

Why is exercise important?

It is a physical movement, which gets your blood circulating, that facilitates the transport of immune cells to where they are needed. Even a daily walk can help out and make a big difference on your well-being.

Living a sedentary life

If you rarely exercise, your immune system can become weak. But too much exercise can also be bad. Stay as active as you can if it feels good to do so, even a half hour a day helps.

Manage Stress

How does stress affect your health?

Being stressed for an extended period of time could weaken your immune system. Your body releases stress hormones that makes it harder to fight off illness.

Tips to lower your stress

Basic things such as deep breathing, listening to music, speaking with someone you trust or being outdoors are helpful. Relaxing is good for your mind and your body, so make time for it.

Try Vitamin Supplements

Can vitamins or shots give your immune system a boost?

Sometimes, yes. If certain nutrients are low, like B12 or vitamin D, supplements or injections can boost their levels. As an example, a B12 injection energizes you and makes your immunity function better.

Talk to your doctor

If you are often tired or easily ill, it is best to speak with a doctor. They can check and see if you’re low in any vitamins, and recommend what treatment would be best for you.