Low Immunity

The primary symptom of a weakened immune system is susceptibility to infection. You may be suffering from low immunity if you have the following symptoms:

• Frequent infections of the respiratory tract, such as bronchitis, sinusitis, and pneumonia.
• Gastrointestinal tract infections, causing vomiting and diarrhea.
• Urinary tract infections, which may cause a burning sensation or blood in the urine, along with other symptoms such as rashes.

Infections that are considered mild among the general population may often present with severe symptoms in immunocompromised individuals.

• Abnormal blood counts, such as low platelets or low white blood cells.
• Chronic fatigue, tiredness, and breathlessness.

A person with a weakened immune system is likely to experience infections more frequently than most other people, and these illnesses might be more severe or harder to treat. Infections that individuals with a weak immune system often contract include pneumonia, meningitis, bronchitis, and skin diseases. Moreover, these infections may recur with high frequency.

Additionally, people with a weak immune system may be more likely to experience:

• 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

A person may have low immunity by birth due to genetic abnormalities, or it may be acquired in later life due to various causes.

Primary Immunodeficiency

The immune system is the protective mechanism of the body. It attacks disease-causing organisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The immune system comprises various types of white blood cells, each with specialized functions. Genetic mutations can sometimes affect the immune system, leading to immunodeficiency.

In primary immunodeficiency, from birth, a child's immune system does not function properly and cannot ward off infections. Due to a compromised immune system, these children frequently fall ill for extended periods and are susceptible to infections from normally harmless organisms. Most primary immunodeficiencies are not fatal; however, it is essential to diagnose and treat them early to prevent life-threatening complications.

Secondary Immunodeficiency

These are acquired immune system defects that can occur due to conditions such as:

1. Lifestyle Factors

• Poor sanitation: Lack of sanitation is a major health barrier linked to the transmission of various diseases that lower the body’s immunity, including cholera, diarrhea, typhoid, dysentery, and hepatitis A.
• Malnutrition: Protein-deficient diets are a significant cause of secondary immunodeficiency, especially in the developing world. Malnutrition can involve deficiencies in essential nutrients, particularly calcium and zinc, which are crucial for immunity.
• Stressful lifestyle: Stress reduces the immune system’s ability to fight off infections, as the stress hormone can suppress immune effectiveness.
• Lack of exercise: A modern sedentary lifestyle severely restricts the immune capacity of the body.

2. Health Conditions

• Cancer: Various types of cancer and treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation can cause immunosuppression.
• HIV/AIDS: HIV, which causes AIDS, is an acquired viral infection that destroys important white blood cells, weakening the immune system. People with HIV/AIDS are at risk of opportunistic infections.
• Diabetes mellitus: Individuals with diabetes mellitus have low immunity and are more susceptible to infections, as high blood sugar levels can weaken immune defenses. Diabetes-related issues, like nerve damage and reduced blood flow, further increase vulnerability to infections.

COVID and Low Immunity

Coronavirus is a novel virus that affects both the respiratory and immune systems. When infected, the immune system produces protective proteins called antibodies that help fight the pathogen and aid recovery. After recovery, the immune system retains a memory of the virus, allowing immune cells and proteins to recognize and eliminate the pathogen if encountered again.

According to the NIH, antibodies against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 were found in 98% of participants one month after symptom onset. However, individuals with low immunity or pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, chronic lung disease, or heart disease are at a higher risk of infection. This can also impact the severity of the infection, duration of illness, treatment options, and chances of recovery.

To boost immunity against COVID-19, it is important to get vaccinated. Additionally, wearing a mask and following COVID-appropriate behavior can help lower the risk of infection.

Here’s more on COVID-19 to know about!

You may be at risk of primary or secondary immunodeficiency if:

• Your parents or a close family relative suffers from genetic abnormalities that cause low immunity.
• You lead a poor lifestyle that includes lack of sanitation, poor diet, lack of exercise, and physical or psychological stress. This lifestyle also increases the chances of diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
• You engage in unsafe sexual practices that can increase the risk of transmission of HIV.
• Sharing needles, razors, or other personal items with others can increase the risk of transmission of HIV.
• If you have undergone splenectomy, which is the surgical removal of the spleen due to trauma, cirrhosis, or other health conditions. The spleen is an organ that filters old and damaged blood cells, produces antibodies that help fight infection, and stores blood cells.

White blood cells are the mediators of the immune system. The easiest way to determine their count is by performing a complete blood count (CBC). Further thorough studies may be required if any abnormalities are observed in the complete blood counts.

An immunity test package involves:

• Complete blood count (CBC) to check for the values of various blood cells
• Kidney function test to assess the health of the kidney
• Liver function test to assess the health of the liver
• C-Reactive protein quantitative to check for any acute infection or inflammation
• Thyroid profile total to check for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism
• Vitamin D (25-OH) to check for vitamin D deficiency
• Iron deficiency profile to check for probable causes of anemia
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate to check for any ongoing inflammation in the body
• Infection profiling to detect potential immune markers like interleukin-6, procalcitonin, ferritin, d-dimer, etc., to assess the body's immune response against infection. Elevated levels of these markers signify acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, including COVID-19.

Additional studies may also be required, depending on the case.

While genetic types of primary immunodeficiency or low immunity due to certain health conditions cannot be prevented, it is possible to prevent low immunity arising from a poor lifestyle. You can make the following changes to your lifestyle to stay healthy and have a robust immune system:

• Take a wholesome diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Cut back on processed foods.
• Drink plenty of water and fluids, such as fresh fruit juices and coconut water, as required throughout the day, and stay hydrated.
• Establish a sound sleep schedule. Do not sleep during the day. Getting 6-8 hours of sleep is crucial.
• Cut down on caffeinated beverages and alcoholic beverages.
• Quit smoking.
• Exercise daily for at least 30-45 minutes. The exercises can be a mixture of aerobics and strengthening exercises.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Indulge in wellness activities that promote physical and mental relaxation, such as those offered at a health spa.
• Practice yoga or meditation. Learn to calm your stress and cultivate positive thoughts to keep anxiety at bay.

Additionally, here are a few recommendations for people with low immunity during the Covid-19 pandemic:

• Stay at home if possible during the pandemic.
• Wash hands frequently.
• Try to maintain a distance of 6 feet from other people.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces often.
• Seek medical help if health issues arise.
• Stay in touch with family, caregivers, and others who can help deliver necessary items and take action if the person gets sick.

Our immunity is a complex system composed of various components, such as the beneficial bacteria in our stomach and the white blood cells that combat germs in our body. Doctors indicate that a weak immune system can also be partly genetic. However, all experts agree that the following simple steps can significantly strengthen one’s immunity.

Here are 10 ways to boost immunity with simple tips and tricks.

The treatment for low immunity is vast and consists of supplements for nutritional deficiencies to increase or strengthen the immune system, managing or preventing infections, and treating specific underlying disorders.

Supplements for Nutritional Deficiencies

It is rightly said that no food or supplement can prevent illness. However, good nutritional supplements, including vitamins A, B6, B12, C, E, probiotics, protein, and zinc on a regular basis, may offer protection from seasonal illnesses and can be helpful in boosting immunity.

Here are a few supplements that are known to have immune-boosting potential:

• Vitamin A: A fat-soluble vitamin critical for maintaining vision, neurological function, and healthy skin. Taking vitamin A supplements helps reduce inflammation caused by free radical damage.
• Vitamin B Complex: Supports a healthy immune system by promoting cell health, maintaining energy levels, and cardiovascular health. The Vitamin B complex consists of eight vitamins that work together to fight off germs and infections.
• Vitamin C: Functions as a powerful antioxidant, protecting against oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Vitamin C supplementation has been shown to increase immunity, particularly for upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold.
• Vitamin D: Known as "the sunshine vitamin," it is a fat-soluble nutrient essential for the health and functioning of the immune system.
• Zinc: Necessary for immune cell development and communication, zinc plays an important role in the inflammatory response and helps prevent foreign pathogens from entering tissue barriers.
• Protein: The backbone of the body's defense systems, proteins made up of amino acids are vital for immunity. It is important to consume a good quantity and quality of protein daily for optimal immune function.

Managing Infections

People with low immunity often battle infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Appropriate antimicrobial agents are used to treat these infections based on the causative organism:

• Antiviral Medicines: Used to treat viral infections, these drugs help stop viral replication and ease symptoms. Examples include oseltamivir phosphate, zanamivir, and acyclovir.
• Antibiotics: Individuals with a weak immune system are at higher risk for frequent bacterial infections. Antibiotics help kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. Examples include penicillin, tetracycline, and azithromycin.
• Antifungals: Fungal infections are opportunistic infections that attack people with weakened immune systems. Antifungal drugs work by damaging the cell wall of the fungus. Examples include clotrimazole, ketoconazole, and miconazole.

Supportive care for symptoms such as fever and cough is provided as needed.

Treatment of Underlying Disorders

The treatments for underlying disorders, such as cancer and HIV, vary widely.

• Anti-retroviral Drugs: Used to treat HIV infections. Examples include abacavir, emtricitabine, and lamivudine.
• Chemotherapy Drugs: Used depending on the type of cancer. Examples include docetaxel, ixabepilone, and paclitaxel.
• Anti-diabetic Drugs: Medications like metformin, dapagliflozin, and glipizide are used to manage diabetes mellitus.
• Human Normal Immunoglobulin Formulations: Used to supplement antibodies against foreign infections.
• Interferon-gamma Preparations: Synthetic interferons used to treat some types of primary immunodeficiency.
• Donor Plasma: Plasma from a suitable donor with antibodies against a particular infection is used to treat life-threatening infections due to low immunity.
• Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplantation: Recommended for the treatment of primary immunodeficiencies.

You must take precautions to avoid catching an infection if you have poor immunity. If you are suffering from low immunity due to lifestyle disorders, making healthy changes can boost your immune system.

The following strategies can help if you are experiencing immunodeficiency:

• Take a wholesome and balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
• Drink an adequate quantity of fluids such as water, coconut water, buttermilk, clear soups, and herbal teas throughout the day.
• Establish a sound sleep schedule and get at least 6-8 hours of sleep. Avoid daytime naps. It is better to get 8 hours of sound sleep at night rather than catching up on sleep in bits and parts.
• Exercise daily for at least 30-45 minutes.
• Go out for a walk in the early morning sun to get your daily dose of vitamin D.
• Reduce excessive consumption of caffeinated drinks (especially in the evening) and alcohol.
• Quit smoking and recreational drugs.
• Wash hands often and thoroughly with soap and water, especially before meals and after visiting the washroom.
• Wear a surgical mask while interacting with crowds.

If low immunity is left untreated, it may lead to severe and life-threatening infections, including:

• Pneumonia
• Meningitis
• Septicemia

A person with low immunity typically experiences recurrent infections and may succumb to them without timely medical intervention. Additionally, there is an increased risk of damage to vital organs such as:

• Heart
• Lungs
• Liver

Along with the medical treatments for the underlying health conditions, immunity can be boosted with several alternative therapies like:

• Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is an excellent way to provide the body with the fuel it needs to perform activities. Including vitamin C-rich foods in your diet, such as lemons, oranges, bell peppers, and gooseberries, can significantly boost your immunity. A balanced diet ensures there are no vitamin or mineral deficiencies that can often result in low immunity. Drinking plenty of water and fluids like fresh fruit juices and coconut water keeps your body hydrated and refreshed.
• Meditation and relaxation: Meditation can help channel and conserve the body’s energy. It aids in overcoming feelings of anxiety or stress, which are important factors affecting immune function. Meditation and relaxation techniques also promote a sense of overall health and well-being.
• Exercise and yoga: Light exercises and yoga help boost the body's energy levels and are effective for enhancing immunity. Engaging in various exercises, such as aerobics and muscle strengthening, as well as practicing yogasanas like Shalabhasana, Tadasana, and Bakasana for at least 30-45 minutes daily, is beneficial for maintaining a healthy body and a robust immune system.
• Ayurveda: Ayurveda offers many remedies to boost the immune system. Incorporating herbs and spices, such as turmeric, ginger, and garlic, into daily cooking, as well as consuming decoctions or kadhas made from tulsi, cinnamon, black pepper, clove, and honey, is believed to enhance immunity. Chyavanprash is an Ayurvedic formulation renowned for its immunity-boosting properties. The role of Ayurvedic herbs in preventing and fighting infections is crucial for maintaining health and fitness. Here are some commonly used Ayurvedic herbs that can boost your immunity.
• Homeopathy: Homeopathic preparations in the form of oral drops or pills, such as Arsenicum album, Lycopodium, Rhus Toxicodendron, and Sambucus nigra, are considered to be immunity-boosting. These are sometimes prescribed alongside standard medicines to treat community outbreaks of infectious diseases.

Living with low immunity can be challenging. It affects one of the key systems of the body, making the body susceptible to severe and opportunistic infections. People with low immunity should take extra care of their hygiene and sanitation to prevent any kind of infection.

• Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before meals and after visiting the washroom, are basic but essential measures to follow.
• Adopting a healthy lifestyle, consuming a wholesome and well-balanced diet, adequate rest and sleep, along with managing stress, can help boost immunity and offer some protection to those with weakened defenses.
• Wearing a surgical mask while interacting with crowds is necessary, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
• Lifelong treatments are usually essential for those with primary immunodeficiencies and conditions such as HIV or cancer.