The immune system acts as the body’s defense against bacteria, viruses, and other infections. Apart from this, its main tasks are to recognize and neutralize harmful substances from the environment and fight any abnormal cell formation in the body, such as cancer. The immune system also makes antibodies against germs it has previously come in contact with to keep one healthy. Here are some signs of a weak immune system:
Extremely high-stress levels
Reports by the American Psychological Association suggest that long-term stress has been linked to reduced immunity levels. This is because stress affects the lymphocytes (white blood cells) in the body, making one more vulnerable to viruses and infections.
Constant colds
As an adult, it is normal to contract two to three colds per year. These may last for 7-10 days. However, when one experiences a cold that just won’t go away, it may be a sign that they are immuno-compromised or have a weakened immune system.
Stomach problems
Frequently occurring gas, diarrhea, or constipation could also be a sign of a weakened immune system. According to certain research, approximately 70 percent of the immune system is located around the digestive tract. When this is compromised, it makes one more susceptible to inflammation and diseases.
Slow-healing wounds
Another tell-tale sign of a weakened immune system is that wounds don’t heal as quickly as they should. This occurs due to the lack of healthy immune cells in the body.
Frequent infections
Dealing with the following infections recurrently may be a sign of a weakened immune system, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology:
- Having more than four ear infections in a year
- Developing pneumonia twice within a year
- Suffering from chronic sinusitis or more than three episodes of bacterial sinusitis a year.
Fatigue
A compromised immune system may cause one to feel tired and sluggish despite getting the right amount of sleep and nutrition.
Cold hands
Chronic inflammation in the body can make it difficult to warm up the fingers, nose, ears, and toes. The skin in these areas may even turn white or blue due to the lack of blood flow.
Tongue color can also help determine one’s health status. A red tongue, for instance, may indicate heat in the body. A reddish-purple tongue may be a sign of inflammation. A pale pink tongue may signify a vitamin deficiency, a weakened immune system, or fatigue.
Immune system imbalances can also trigger or worsen disorders like alopecia areata. Patients with this condition develop bald patches and hair loss. Additionally, weakened immunity can make individuals more susceptible to frequent illnesses, including bacterial or viral infections. Hence, maintaining a robust immune system is vital for overall well-being.
Eating well-balanced meals, exercising regularly, sleeping well, and minimizing stress can help boost immune activity in the body and promote good health.
