In recent years, concerns over health and well-being have become paramount. As we emerge from global issues related to COVID-19, many people may be experiencing immune system challenges. If you or someone you know is experiencing increased sickness or difficulty fighting off infections, you may have immunosuppression.
What Is Immunosuppression?
Generally speaking, immunosuppression is when your immune system - your body’s defense mechanism - is not functioning at optimal levels. This means you may struggle with certain diseases, get sick more frequently, or not feel as good as you should.
Typical symptoms of immunosuppression may include:
- Persistent Fatigue
- Gastrointestinal Issues
- Recurring Infections
- Slow Healing Wounds
- Difficulty Sleeping
Remember, not all issues of immunosuppression are debilitating. In fact, you might just be run down because you’ve been under a lot of pressure and haven’t been taking care of your body and mind the way you’d like.
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Truth be told, there are many reasons your immune system might be weakened. Here are 8 common causes of immunosuppression, and what you can do!
1. Stress Levels
When we stress, a chemical called cortisol increases in our bodies. While this elevation can help us in the short term to deal with stressful situations, we don’t want our cortisol levels constantly elevated. Persistent stress leads to unhealthy levels of other hormones and chemicals too, which over time can wear us down.
Consider practices like yoga, meditation, and exercise to reduce stress levels. Try to establish a regular sleep schedule, and limit alcohol and drug use. While certain substances may help you ‘unwind’ at the time, prolonged use will increase your stress and weaken your immune system!
RELATED: 10 Signs Your Immune System Is In Trouble
2. Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune diseases and disorders are those conditions in which your body attacks itself (not good!). In some cases, your immune system views its tissues as foreign invaders and can cause significant harm.
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Consider screening for autoimmune disorders. Such conditions include type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Proper medications and lifestyle changes can help you manage these conditions with fewer issues.
3. Medications
Speaking of medicine, some prescribed drugs trigger immune system issues. Many drugs used for skin conditions often affect the immune system. Other drugs to treat immune-related problems, such as cancers, can also weaken your body’s defenses. Always discuss a reasonable course of action with your physician.
4. Lack of Sleep
This one’s a no-brainer but bears repeating. The average adult should aim for at least eight hours of sleep every night. Irregular or inadequate sleep causes the immune system to behave improperly, which has been linked to high levels of inflammation in the body. All you need to do is check your mirror after a long night, and you already know!
5. Malnutrition
While processed meals and fast food are convenient in our modern lives, they’re making our bodies worse. Try to aim for at least a couple of home-cooked meals every week, meal-prepping if you can.
Well-rounded diets with lean meat, fresh fruits and veggies, and whole grains are generally best. And don’t be afraid to consider top-shelf supplements if you’re lacking.
6. Lack of Vitamin D
Ever wonder why people get sick more often during the winter? Part of this has to do with the lack of sun exposure. On top of that, we’re crowded indoors where colds and viruses can spread. So, do your best to get 10 to 15 minutes of direct sunlight per day. If you can’t, eggs, red meat, and oily fish are great sources of Vitamin D.
7. Medical Procedures
Medical procedures, especially invasive surgeries, can leave you feeling beat up as you recover. If you’re experiencing unexpected side effects or health problems, speak with your doctor immediately. Follow any necessary rehabilitation guidelines and don’t rush. Healing is about patience, and your body deserves it!
8. Exercise
Now this may sound counterintuitive - isn’t exercise critical? The answer is yes, but like anything, you can overdo it. Moderate exercise can do wonders for the average person, but if you’re hitting the gym hard, just be sure to compensate. Give your body the fuel it needs with healthy balanced meals, and make sure to allow for additional rest and sleep so you recover fully.
Keeping your immune system strong is all about finding what works for you. Some people are fine with six hours of sleep per night, while others need way more. As you learn your body, you’ll make invaluable gains. With these tips, you can lead a healthier, more fulfilling life and hopefully avoid the pesky problems of a weakened immune system.
