What are the signs of immune deficiency and a weak immune system?

signs of weak immunity

Medically reviewed by Dr. Shunmukha Priya, Ph.D. in Food Science and Nutrition

A strong and healthy immune system is the first line of defence against flu, cough, cold and other seemingly common viruses and infections. Alas, many do not have the resistance and are easily prone to catching infections and flu.   

Poor lifestyle, bad food choices and stress in general has and is still affecting the immunity of many. Immune deficiency has now become a common problem among young and old alike.

How do you know that you have an immune deficiency or a weak immune system? Well, there are some indications to determine this. It is prudent to consider these as a warning signals and you need to boost immunity to prevent diseases and infections.[1]

1. Suffering from cold – always

Generally a healthy adult can experience two to three colds in a year and they will bounce back to health within 7-10 days.

coronavirus infection

After catching a cold, the immune system develops antibodies within three or four days to fight off the infection.

However, a person with immune deficiency catches a cold more often than a healthy person will take a longer period of time to recover. This is a sign that the body’s immune system is finding it difficult to ward off infections.[2]

2. Slow wound healing

Slow healing of wounds is not only a sign of diabetes but also a poor immune function. When you get a cut, scrape or burn, your body kick starts its defence system.

The skin begins its damage control process and the body sends nutrient-dense blood to assist the wound in healing. This helps in the regeneration of the new skin.

Our immune cells also play a role in the healing process. A healthy immune system speeds up the skin regeneration process.

On the other hand, a sluggish and slow immune system will not support the healing and lets the wound linger for a long time.[3]

3. High-stress levels

Remember children or adults falling sick right before an examination wedding, project delivery etc? This is because of the high level of stress during these periods.

Stress

Carrying high levels of stress over a period of time can weaken the immune system and cause immune deficiency. Stress reduces the production and efficiency of WBC (white blood cells) which play a vital role in fighting off infections.

That’s why stress can invite cold, flu and other infections since it directly affects your immune function. Therefore, it is very important to keep stress at bay.[4]

4. Stomach problems

Stomach troubles such as constipation, gas and diarrhoea is a sign of compromised immune system. According to studies, the digestive tract is responsible for 70% of immune function.[5]

The beneficial microorganism and good bacteria in the digestive tract support the immune system by defending the gut from infections. This is why at Possible, we always insist on ensuring a healthy gut for overall wellness.

A poor immune system leads to low levels of good bacteria in the digestive tract. This makes you susceptible to infections, chronic inflammation and even autoimmune disorders too.[6]

5. Constant fatigue

When you are suffering from immune deficiency, you are likely to feel tired all the time even though you are resting enough. Your immune system and energy levels are interrelated.

Usually, the body conserves energy for later use and when your immunity is low, it conserves to fuel the immune system to fight off infections and germs. This leaves the body tired and fatigued.[7]

6. Catching infections frequently

Frequent infections are a sign of immune deficiency. Some of the signs include,

  • Chronic sinusitis.
  • Developing pneumonia twice in one year.
  • The need for antibiotics (two courses) a year.
  • Developing ear infections more than four times in a year.
  • Suffering from bacterial sinusitis more than three times in a year.

Before resorting to pills, one can naturally try to boost their immunity. Making lifestyle changes is the key to stronger immunity.[8]

Some of the ways to boost the immune system naturally are,

  • Sound sleep
  • Regular exercises
  • Well balanced diet
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
  • Washing hands frequently
  • If required, taking vaccines as suggested by a doctor
  • Minimizing stress

Read – Know How To Improve Immunity

It is important to note that the above remedies can be followed only by those who are suffering from common immune deficiency and otherwise healthy.

People who are suffering from certain immune disorders like – temporary acquired immune deficiencies, over/hyperactive immune system, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and any other autoimmune diseases must seek medical help immediately to improve their condition.[9]

Conclusion

A healthy immune system is a key to a sound body and immune deficiency can make your life difficult. Therefore, it is crucial to build a strong immunity to protect your body against infectious diseases and take precautions to keep diseases at bay. For improving immunity, follow the tips shared above and if necessary, one should not be hesitant to visit a health care professional.

Eat well, sleep well and be well – that’s the best we could do to our body. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What causes immune deficiency?
    Immune deficiency can be caused due to many factors. Some of the common factors are  nutritional deficiency, malnutrition, genetic disorders, and other underlying health conditions.
  2. What are examples of immune deficiencies?
    Some of the common immunodeficiency disorders include Severe Combined Immune Deficiency (SCID), Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID), Human Immunodeficiency Virus/ Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDs), and Drug-induced immune deficiency.
  3. How do you cure a weak immune system?
    The primary ways to strengthen the immune system are :
    – Eat a well-balanced diet,
    – Exercise regularly,
    – Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol,
    – Sleep well
    If doing the aforementioned fails to improve your immunity, then include immunity booster supplements in your diet.
  4. Which multivitamin is best for immunity?
    According to medical experts, multivitamin supplements that contain vitamin C, D, and zinc are best to boost immunity. Check out Possible’s Vitamin C+ supplements for improving your family’s immune health.
  5. What are the best immunity booster supplements available in India?
    Supplements that are rich in vitamin C, D, B6, A, zinc, antioxidants, etc, can boost your immune system. Such immunity-boosting supplements are readily available in the Indian market.
    Check out Possible’s range of supplements that can boost your immunity and cure your body’s vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
  6. What should be included in a healthy diet plan to increase immunity?
    An immunity-boosting diet should ideally include colorful fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, A, D, and phytochemicals which are antioxidants. For example, orange, papaya, broccoli, brussels sprouts, bell peppers, etc. Probiotic foods like yoghurt, fermented vegetables, etc are also super effective in strengthening the immune system.

6 thoughts on “What are the signs of immune deficiency and a weak immune system?

  1. chuck says:

    im a runner but still have problems losing my belly fat a guy im training for a half marathon with told me about lepitox and said it worked miracles for him i am only concerned about fad diets and know losing to quickly isnt always the best path.

    • raziyas says:

      Hi, Hi, we at Truweight believe natural foods to lose weight. For losing belly fat, proper diet, lifestyle modification and physical activity is adequate.

  2. Janine says:

    It’s really important nowadays to maintain immune health. I’ve had several people recommend to me that, while I do want to lose weight, I shouldn’t go on a diet right now to maintain my immune health. But I did find something that really helped me kick the weight off without going on a diet, It worked well for me so I hope it can help you guys too. Stay safe everybody!

    • raziyas says:

      Hi Thank you for your recommendation, we are glad that you liked our blog and keep following for more information, Stay home and stay safe and stay healthy, Thank you 🙂

  3. Lawrence says:

    Weight lost FAST and EFFECTIVE! I lost 44 lbs in three months. I did it, you too can do it in a simple and easy way. Why struggle to cut down your food intake when this handy supplement is available for you to purchase right now?!

    • raziyas says:

      Dear Lawrence, Thanks for leaving such a nice review. We take pride in giving outstanding service to every customers and we’re overjoyed to receive your compliments and appreciation.Eat right and have a healthy lifestyle ahead.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Offer Ends In

Days

:

Hours

:

Minutes

:

Seconds