The primary symptom of a weak immune system is susceptibility to infection.
These individuals may also find themselves dealing with an infection that a person with a stronger immune system would not get.
Infections that people with a weak immune system often get include:
pneumonia
meningitis
bronchitis
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
Tips to stay healthy
People who have a weak immune system can take several steps to maximize their chances of staying healthy and avoiding infections.
Good hygiene
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.
Avoid people who are sick
People with weak immune systems should avoid being too near to anyone who has a cold or another infection. Viruses and other infectious illnesses can spread from person to person through close contact. They can also spread in the water droplets that a person expels into the air when they cough or sneeze.
Disinfect household objects
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.
Examples of vaccines that doctors may recommend delaying or avoiding include:
The CDC recommend a vaccine schedule that most people should try to follow. However, people with a weak immune system should check with a doctor which vaccines are safe for them to have and then follow the doctor’s recommendations. Vaccines can prevent a person from getting seriously ill.
Manage stress
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:
yoga
meditation
massages
spending time pursuing hobbies
Get enough sleep
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.
Eat a healthful diet
A person with a weak immune system should eat a healthful diet.
Eating a healthful, balanced diet can improve a person’s overall well-being.
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
Exercise regularly
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
Consider taking supplements
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
iron
folic acid
z
A person with a weak immune system can take some steps at home to keep themselves healthy and maximize their immune function.
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