Immune System Diseases and Treatment

Immune system diseases are disorders that occur when the body’s immune system malfunctions and attacks its own cells and tissues. These diseases can range from mild to severe and can have a wide range of symptoms. Common immune system diseases include allergies, autoimmune disorders, immunodeficiencies, and cancer.

Allergies are a common type of immune system disease. Symptoms can include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. Allergies occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to a harmless substance, such as pollen or dust. Treatment typically involves avoiding the allergen, taking antihistamines, or using other medications to reduce symptoms.

Autoimmune disorders are a group of diseases in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues. Common autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes. Treatment typically involves the use of medications to suppress the immune system, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologic drugs.

Immunodeficiencies are conditions in which the body’s immune system is weakened or does not function properly. These conditions can be caused by genetic disorders, chronic illnesses, medications, or infections. Common immunodeficiency disorders include severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), HIV/AIDS, and chronic granulomatous disease. Treatment typically involves medications to boost the immune system, such as antibiotics, antifungals, and antivirals.

Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the body grow and divide uncontrollably. The immune system is responsible for detecting and destroying cancer cells, but it may be weakened in some people, allowing cancer to grow unchecked. Treatment typically involves surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these treatments.

The immune system is the body’s defense line that fights against fungal, viral, and bacterial infections. It is a complex network of cells that protects our bodies against organisms or foreign objects that produce disease. It is a complex network that contains not only cells, but tissues and organs as well. It catches different agents and can determine if they are necessary for proper function, or if they are pathogens or tumorous cells. The human body changes over time and develops the ability to locate these pathogens quicker and creates an immunological memory. Our bodies have adaptive immunity meaning that as things change, it changes to suit the new needs.

There are multiple immune system diseases that result from disorders. When everything is less active than what is considered normal, it is known as immunodeficiency. If this condition occurs it can result in life-threatening infections. It is a condition that can be the result of a genetic disease or produced through infection or even through medications. The most well known condition is acquired autoimmune deficiency syndrome or AIDS which is caused by the virus HIV. Other commonly known conditions include lupus, diabetes type I, allergies, asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.

Supplements can be taken to help give the needed boost to fight against everyday illnesses like the common cold or the flu. One of the most commonly known immune system vitamins is Vitamin C. Dietary supplements will provide adequate levels of vitamin C, but they cannot provide the other antioxidants that fruits and vegetables have. Probiotics work by helping to keep the digestive tract healthy and have beneficial effects. Yogurt is a source high in probiotics along with some fruits and vegetables. Echinacea is a herbal product that has shown to be beneficial as well. Taking immune system vitamins can aid in a healthier life when used along side a proper diet and exercise routine.

While there are treatments for specific immune system diseases, many of these deficiencies are chronic illnesses and will continue without cure. Different medications are available to treat the symptoms of each condition, but in some cases the treatments can be just as harsh on the body as the condition itself. The only plus side is managing the pain or regaining some strength for daily functions. Some research shows that there is a direct link between chiropractic care and a healthy body. Results suggest that if the body is properly aligned to make all organs so they can function properly. As with any disease or illness, treatment options are suggested depending on diagnosis, overall health conditions of the patient, and/or medical history, and should be determined by a physician.

Although genetics do play a roll in some of these conditions, providing a healthy diet and exercise is the only way to keep our bodies truly protected from illness and disease. With all the pathogens and germs that are carried through the air, live in our beds and our couches, or on our cell phones we could not survive without our immune system.