Medical Conditions That Weaken Your Immune System

You might have heard that a flu vaccine weakens your immune system, but that’s not true. The vaccine prepares your immune system for the flu.

A flu vaccine teaches your immune system to recognize that virus as a threat. Some people may still get the flu after having a flu shot, but they’ll probably have a milder form of the illness. That’s because antibodies made in response to the vaccine can still provide some protection.

Some people may mistake the occasional short-lived side effects of the vaccine (slight fever, aches) for flu symptoms. And the time of year people are most likely to get the vaccine is when colds and other respiratory illnesses are common. If you get the vaccine and then get sick with an unrelated bug, you may assume, incorrectly, that the vaccine caused the illness.

On the other hand, conditions and medications that can weaken your immune system include:

Autoimmune diseases
Cancer
Steroids
Chemotherapy
Seasonal allergies can be caused by an abnormal response

Allergy symptoms happen when your immune system reacts to something harmless, like pollen, pet dander, or mold. Your body sees the allergen as an invader and attacks it, giving you a runny nose and itchy eyes.

People can inherit a tendency toward allergies; if you have allergies, your children have a higher chance of having them, although they may be allergic to different things.

Allergies are treated by avoiding your allergy triggers and taking medication to control symptoms. For some people, allergy shots may be an option. Over a period of time, usually several years, allergy shots may help your immune system get used to the allergen, so that it doesn’t produce the bothersome allergy symptoms.

You Can Help It Out
The classic things that keep your heart, brain, bones, and the rest of you well are also good for your immune system:

Stay active.
Work to keep your weight healthy.
Don’t smoke.
If you drink alcohol, keep it moderate (no more than one drink a day if you’re a woman, and two drinks daily if you’re a man).
Eat nutritious foods.
While no single food will upgrade your immune system, poor nutrition can have a negative effect on the immune system. What counts is having a balanced diet.

Just about everyone could stand to eat more fruits and vegetables. They’re rich in vitamins and minerals that are good for you. If you’re thinking about getting supplements to cover your nutritional needs, check with your doctor or a dietitian. Chances are, you’re getting what you need from food, unless you’re on a strict diet, are pregnant, or have certain medical conditions.

G Mohan