White blood cells, antibodies, and other components, including organs and lymph nodes, make up the body’s immune system. Many disorders can weaken the immune system and cause a person to become immunocompromised. These immunodeficiency disorders, which range from mild to severe, can be present from birth or may occur as a result of environmental factors. They include:
- certain types of cancer
- viral hepatitis
- some medical treatments
Sometimes, an immunodeficiency disorder can be so mild that a person may not be aware of it for years. Other times, the disorder is more severe and causes a person to experience frequent infections throughout their life.
In this article, we look at the symptoms of a weak immune system and provide some steps that people can take to improve their chances of staying healthy. The primary symptom of a weak immune system is susceptibility to infection. A person with a weak immune system is likely to get infections more frequently than most other people, and these illnesses might be more severe or harder to treat.
These individuals may also find themselves dealing with an infection that a person with a stronger immune system would not get. People with a weak immune system often get include:
- skin infections
These infections may recur with a high frequency. The other symptoms of a weak immune system can include the following:
- autoimmune disorders
- inflammation of the internal organs
- blood disorders or abnormalities, such as anemia
- digestive issues, including loss of appetite, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping
- growth and developmental delays in infants and children
People who have a weak immune system can take several steps to maximize their chances of staying healthy and avoiding infections. One of the easiest ways for a person with a weak immune system to stay healthy is by practicing good hygiene, which includes washing the hands frequently. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)recommend washing the hands at the following times:
- before, during, and after preparing meals and snacks
- before eating
- after blowing the nose, sneezing, or coughing
- before and after treating a cut or another open skin wound
- after having contact with someone who is unwell
- after using or helping a child use the bathroom
- after changing a diaper
- after touching an animal or animal food or waste
- after touching garbage
Proper handwashing significantly reduces illnesses. According to the CDC, handwashing decreases infectious diarrhea cases by 58 percent in people with a weak immune system.
The CDC also state that hand-washing with soap and water can help protect children and minimize the number of deaths from pneumonia and diarrheal disease in those under the age of 5 years.
It is not always possible to avoid people who are ill. However, a person with a weak immune system should always avoid close contact, such as hugging or kissing, with the unwell person until the illness resolves. They should also avoid sharing food and beverages with the person.
Germs that have the potential to cause illnesses can live on some surfaces in the home, such as doorknobs and remote controls. A person can reduce the number of germs that inhabit these areas by disinfecting them regularly. Stress can weaken the immune system further and make a person more susceptible to illness. Some research shows that a person who is under excessive stress is more likely to get sick.
People with a weak immune system should take steps to manage their stress. Practices that may reduce and manage stress include:
- spending time pursuing hobbies
According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation has a similar effect on the body’s immune system as stress. Lack of sleep disrupts the normal production of white blood cells, a crucial component of the body’s immune system.
According to the CDC, adults should aim for at least 7 hours of sleep per day, while infants and children need between 8 and 17 hours of sleep depending on their age. Eating a healthful, balanced diet can improve a person’s overall well-being. For people with a weak immune system, doctors generally recommend a diet that is rich in vegetables and fruit, which will provide plenty of nutrients. If a person is very immunocompromised, for example, because they are undergoing cancer treatment, a doctor may recommend that they take extra steps to avoid foodborne illnesses.
These may include:
- washing all fruits and vegetables before peeling them
- avoiding undercooked meats, fish, and eggs
- refrigerating food promptly
- choosing pasteurized juices and dairy products over unpasteurized products
Regular exercise keeps the body healthy. In addition to strengthening the body, exercise causes the body to release endorphins that reduce stress levels. However, those with weak immune systems should be careful not to push themselves too hard as this can weaken the immune system further.
Therefore, people with a weak immune system may wish to avoid exercising:
- at too high an intensity
- too frequently
- for extended periods without stopping to rest
Some vitamins and minerals affect the immune system. For example, a person who has a vitamin C deficiency can have weakened immunity.
Other vitamins and minerals that can affect immune function include:
- vitamin A
- vitamin D
- vitamin E
- folic acid
It is best to get these nutrients from dietary sources where possible, but if this proves challenging, supplements may help with immunity. A range
People who have a weak immune system tend to get frequent, severe infections. Techniques and lifestyle changes that may help a person stay healthy include managing stress, getting enough sleep, and practicing proper hygiene. Learn more about how to stay healthy with a weak immune system here.