Immunity: the natural barrier of the human body against potentially pathogenic agents

Immunity is a fundamental concept in the medical and biological field. It represents a complex and efficient system of the human body, designed to protect it against pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. In this article, we will explore in detail what the body's immunity is, how many types of immunity there are (humoral and cellular) and we will describe them in detail.

We will also discuss the moments when immunity can be affected naturally or attacked by external factors such as allergies. We will analyze the symptoms of low immunity in adults and children, as well as the causes of this problem. Finally, we will explore natural remedies and healthy habits to strengthen immunity.

Contents:

1. What is immunity?
2. Strengthening the immune system - understanding the anatomical structures that make it up
3. Rapid decrease and increase of immunity: when is the immunity affected naturally and when is it attacked by external factors?

3.1. Increasing natural immunity: the accumulation of antibodies

3.2. Low immunity - when is immunity attacked by external factors with pathogenic potential?

4. Low immunity: symptoms found in adults and children
5. Body immunity - autoimmune diseases
6. Low immunity: suitable remedies for every situation

1. What is immunity?

Immunity, by definition, can be described as the body's natural defense system that protects it against infections and diseases. This protection is achieved through a complex set of mechanisms, structures and specialized cells. Immunity aims to identify and eliminate pathogens that can enter the body, as well as recognize and destroy abnormal cells in the body, such as cancerous ones.

Immunity consists of two main components: humoral immunity and cellular immunity.

Humoral immunity: It is a defense system based on blood-soluble chemicals, such as antibodies. These antibodies are produced by B cells of the immune system and circulate in the blood to recognize and neutralize pathogens. Humoral immunity is effective in fighting infections caused by bacteria and viruses. For example, when a person is infected with the flu, the humoral immunity will produce specific antibodies for the flu virus, helping to eliminate it from the body.

Cellular immunity: It is a component of the immune system that involves specialized cells called T lymphocytes. These cells are responsible for identifying and destroying cells infected with viruses or other abnormal cells in the body. Cellular immunity is essential for the fight against viral infections, but it also has an important role in preventing the development of cancer. T lymphocytes are able to recognize and destroy cells that present foreign or abnormal antigens.

Humoral and cellular immunity often work together to ensure the body's complete protection against various pathogens. These two types of immunity are essential for maintaining health and survival of the body.

2. Strengthening the immune system - understanding the anatomical structures that make it up

The immune system is composed of a complex network of physical structures, including organs and tissues, that work in unison to protect the body against pathogens and other threats to health. Here is an overview of the main physical structures of the immune system:

Lymph nodes: These nodes are located in different areas of the body, including the neck, armpit, groin and other regions. They are essential for the functioning of the lymphatic system, which has the role of filtering lymph and producing immune cells. Ganglia are important structures for recognizing and reacting to pathogens. Lymph nodes can become enlarged during infections and are essential in the process of fighting them.

Tonsils: Tonsils, also known as tonsils, are located in the throat and have the role of detecting and fighting pathogens that can enter the body through the oral and nasal cavity. They produce immune cells and antibodies to help protect against infections.

Spleen: The spleen is a large organ located on the left side of the abdomen. It plays an absolutely essential role in filtering the blood, removing old or damaged blood cells and recognizing and destroying pathogens. The spleen is also an important organ that contributes to the development and activation of immune cells.

Thymus: The thymus is an organ located in the upper part of the chest, behind the sternum. It has a crucial role in the development and maturation of T lymphocytes, which are essential in cellular immunity. The thymus becomes smaller as we age, but it continues to play an important role in the immune response.

Bone Marrow: Bone marrow is spongy tissue found inside bones. This is the place of production of blood cells, including white blood cells and red blood cells. Lymphocytes, an important type of immune cells, are produced in the hematogenous bone marrow and then migrate to other lymphoid organs to fulfill their specific roles.

These anatomical structures are the key physical components of the immune system and work in harmony to identify, neutralize and destroy pathogens and threats to the body's health.

3. Rapid decrease and increase of immunity: when is the immunity affected naturally and when is it attacked by external factors?

The immune system is a complex and very dynamic system that adapts to a variety of situations to maintain health and protect the body. Immunity can be affected naturally or attacked by external factors. Let's explore these situations in detail:

3.1 Increasing natural immunity: the accumulation of antibodies

Immunity can be affected naturally in several ways, and this is part of the process of regulating the immune system. Some examples include:

Immunity at birth: At birth, babies have an underdeveloped immune system, which develops and strengthens as they are exposed to different foreign substances. Their immunity is initially based on the antibodies received from the mother through breast milk.

Natural immunity: The human body has natural defense mechanisms, such as the skin barrier and mucous secretions, which prevent pathogens from entering the body.

Development of immunity throughout life: As a person is exposed to various pathogens throughout life, the immune system learns to recognize and fight against them, thus increasing individual immunity.

Do atmospheric changes have a say?

Sudden temperature changes themselves do not directly affect immunity, but they can have an indirect impact on health and can increase the risk of infections. This is due to several factors:

Exposure to different pathogens: Sudden changes in temperature can often cause people to spend more time indoors, where they can be exposed to a greater variety of pathogens, such as cold and flu viruses. This can increase the chances of contracting infections.

Weakening of the nasal mucosa: Temperature variations can affect the nasal mucosa, making it drier and more vulnerable to infections. The nasal mucosa is the first defense barrier of the respiratory system against pathogens.

Thermal stress: Sudden changes in temperature can subject the body to thermal stress, which can affect the function of the immune system. It has been observed that exposure to extreme temperatures can affect the production of cytokines (signaling proteins in the immune system) and can compromise the immune response to infections.

Lifestyle imbalances: During temperature changes, people may be less willing to exercise regularly or eat properly, which can lead to decreased immunity. Also, people may be less motivated to spend time outdoors, where they can benefit from the sun and vitamin D, which is important for immune health.

It is important to maintain a balance in your lifestyle and to protect yourself from prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures. Appropriate clothing and taking personal hygiene measures, such as regular hand washing, can help reduce the risk of infection during temperature changes.

3.2. Low immunity - when is immunity attacked by external factors with pathogenic potential?

The immune system can also be negatively affected by external factors such as:

Infections: Pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, can infect the immune system itself, weakening it and preventing it from performing its functions properly. For example, some viral infections, such as HIV, can weaken the immune system.

Stress: Chronic stress can reduce the efficiency of the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.

Medicines: Some medicines, such as corticosteroids, which may be prescribed in case of an organ transplant, can suppress the activity of the immune system, which can lead to reduced immunity. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy, used in the treatment of cancer, can affect the immune system.

Inadequate nutrition: Lack of essential nutrients can affect the immune system, reducing resistance to diseases.

Allergies and allergic reactions: Allergies represent exaggerated immune reactions to substances considered harmless in the environment, such as pollen, dust or certain foods. When an allergic person comes into contact with the allergen (the substance that triggers the allergic reaction), the immune system overreacts, producing IgE antibodies. These antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals in the body, which leads to allergic symptoms, such as skin rashes, swelling of the tissue at the entrance gate (the place through which the allergen entered), itching, sneezing and nasal congestion. Allergic reactions can vary from mild to severe (anaphylactic shock) and may require treatment with antihistamines or, in severe cases, with epinephrine. It is important for people with known allergies to avoid contact with allergens and to have the prescribed medicines on hand to deal with allergic reactions.

Hereditary diseases: There are rare genetic diseases that affect the immune system, such as severe combined immunodeficiency syndrome (SCID).

Autoimmune diseases: People with autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, may have an overactive immune system that attacks their own tissues. We will discuss them later, in detail, in a separate chapter.

4. Low immunity: symptoms found in adults and children

Low immunity, also known as immunodeficiency, can increase the risk of infections and affect health in general. Strengthening immunity in adults and children is sometimes an extremely important step for their well-being. The symptoms of low immunity can vary depending on the age and the general state of health of the individual. Here's a more detailed look at the symptoms found in adults and children:

Low immunity in adults - common symptoms

Frequent infections: People with low immunity tend to develop frequent infections, such as colds, flu, respiratory infections or urinary tract infections.

Severe infections: Low immunity can lead to more severe or persistent infections. These may include pneumonia, systemic infections, or less common life-threatening infections.

Slow responses to treatment: When discussing immunity, immunocompromised adults may have slower responses to medical treatments, such as antibiotic or antiviral treatment. Infections may last longer and may require additional treatments.

Autoimmune diseases: A weakened immune system can be associated with the development of autoimmune diseases. These diseases include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and others, in which the immune system attacks its own tissues and organs.

More severe symptoms: People with low immunity may develop more severe symptoms during infections, such as high fever, severe fatigue, difficulty breathing or other signs of complications.

Low immunity in children - common symptoms

Recurrent infections: Children with low immunity may have frequent upper respiratory tract infections, such as colds or otitis media, or skin infections, such as impetigo.

Slowed weight gain: Low immunity in children can affect their growth and development. Children may have problems gaining weight or growing in height.

Chronic diarrhea: Recurrent gastrointestinal infections can be a symptom in children with low immunity. Chronic diarrhea can lead to nutritional problems and weight loss.

Severe infections: Just like adults, children can develop more serious or longer infections, such as pneumonia or other systemic infections.

Difficulties in healing wounds: Wounds or scratches can heal more slowly in children with low immunity.

It is important to consult a doctor if low immunity is suspected in adults or children, as this may require medical evaluation and appropriate treatment. You can also take steps to strengthen your immune system, including adopting a healthy lifestyle, getting vaccinated, and managing stressors that can affect your immunity.

5. The body's immunity - autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases represent a category of complex and varied medical conditions, in which the body's immune system begins to attack its own tissues, organs or cells instead of protecting the body against pathogens. These diseases can affect any part of the body and can have a variety of symptoms and severities. Here's a more detailed look at autoimmune diseases:

The mechanism of autoimmune diseases: The immune system has the ability to distinguish between its own and foreign cells and tissues, recognizing and destroying pathogens, but also preventing attacks on the body itself. In the case of autoimmune diseases, this regulatory system becomes affected, and the immune system begins to produce antibodies and immune cells that attack its own cells and tissues.

Types of autoimmune diseases

There are more than 80 recognized autoimmune diseases, each with specific characteristics and symptoms. Here are some examples of common autoimmune diseases:

Rheumatoid arthritis: This disease affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain and stiffness. Over time, it can lead to joint damage.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): SLE can affect multiple organs, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart and nervous system. Symptoms can range from skin rashes and fever to chronic fatigue and joint pain.

Celiac disease: This autoimmune disease is triggered by exposure to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. It affects the digestive tract, causing inflammation and damage to the small intestine.

Type 1 diabetes: In type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks the β (beta) cells in the pancreas, which produce insulin. This leads to lack of insulin and increased blood sugar levels.

Symptoms of autoimmune diseases

The symptoms of autoimmune diseases can vary considerably depending on the type of disease and the affected organs. However, there are common symptoms which may include:

• Excessive fatigue;
• Pain or inflammation in the joints and muscles;
• Rashes and skin problems;
• Digestive problems;
• Unexplained weight loss or gain;
• Headaches or migraines;
• Exaggerated sensitivity to cold or heat or lack of ability to self-regulate body temperature (a property specific to mammals).

The causes of autoimmune diseases

The exact causes of autoimmune diseases are not fully understood, but are thought to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Potential factors include:

Genetic predisposition: If you have a family history of autoimmune diseases, you may be more prone to these diseases.

Infections: Some infections can trigger autoimmune responses.

Hormonal imbalances: Hormones can play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases, because most of these diseases affect women in particular.

Treatment of autoimmune diseases

The treatment of autoimmune diseases can vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. Many autoimmune diseases are chronic and require long-term management. Treatment may include:

Immunosuppressive drugs: These can suppress the reaction of the immune system and reduce inflammation and symptoms of the disease.

Serotherapy: The use of monoclonal antibodies or other therapies that target certain inflammatory factors.

Lifestyle changes: A healthy diet, regular exercise and stress management can help control symptoms.

Treating clinical signs: Symptomatic treatment can help manage pain, inflammation and other specific symptoms.

Thus, autoimmune diseases represent a varied group of diseases that involve the immune system attacking its own cells and tissues. These diseases can have a significant impact on quality of life and often require long-term management. With an appropriate approach, many people can live an active and healthy life, keeping the symptoms of autoimmune diseases under control. It is important to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and management of autoimmune diseases.

6. Low immunity: suitable remedies for every situation

Maintaining a healthy immune system is crucial for maintaining general health and protecting the body against infections. There are numerous remedies for immunity, these include several ways to support and increase the efficiency of the immune system, and the approach may vary depending on each specific situation. Here are recommendations to maintain healthy immunity, with adaptations for different circumstances:

Healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (such as lean meat, fish and vegetables) and healthy fats (such as those found in olive and nut oils). Avoid excessive consumption of sugar and processed foods, as they can negatively affect immunity. The easiest to apply immunity remedies can be found right on your plate.

Regular physical exercises: Make a program that includes regular physical activities, such as walking, running, swimming or any other sport you like. Physical exercises can increase blood circulation and are very good remedies for low immunity.

Adequate sleep: Make sure you get enough sleep, usually between 7 and 9 hours a night. Adequate sleep is essential for the recovery and efficient functioning of the immune system. It creates a quiet sleeping environment, with adequate temperature and light. Getting enough sleep is one of the cheapest remedies for low immunity.

Dietary supplements: In consultation with your doctor or a health specialist, consider immune supplements such as vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc, which can help boost your immunity. It is not recommended to take supplements in excess, as this can have negative effects.

Stress reduction: Try to practice stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, breathing exercises or cognitive-behavioral therapy. Reducing stress can improve immune function. Proper time management and prioritization of activities can contribute to reducing stress.

Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking weakens the immune system and increases the risk of diseases. Try to quit smoking or seek help to stop. Excessive alcohol consumption can also affect the immune system. Consume alcohol in moderation or abstain completely.

Vaccination: Through vaccines, the immune system is stimulated to develop immunity to specific pathogens, thus preventing serious infections.

It is important to consult a doctor or a health specialist to get personalized recommendations, especially if you have low immunity or are in a specific situation that requires special attention. In addition, following a healthy lifestyle and preventive habits can play a significant role in strengthening the immune system and maintaining long-term health.

Immunity is a complex and essential system that protects the body against pathogens and abnormal cells. It is made up of two main components, humoral immunity and cellular immunity, which work together to ensure complete protection of the body. Immunity can be affected naturally throughout life and depending on exposure to pathogens, but it can also be weakened by external factors, such as infections or stress. However, there are many ways to support and increase the effectiveness of the immune system, including through healthy eating, exercise, stress management and vaccination. Now that you have learned how to increase your immunity, it is important to take care of your immune system to maintain your health and general well-being.

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