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A weak immune system can lead to
dysfunctions such as autoimmune diseases and tumors. An impaired
immune system can, in fact, seriously affect one’s health. This is
especially so in our modern world, where many pathogens have
developed an increased resistance to antibiotics and antifungal
medications.
Weakened immune function can manifest
itself as a genetic or acquired immunodeficiency. The amount to which
the immune system is compromised depends on the nature of the
condition that leads to it and components of the immune system that
are affected.
The immune system can be suppressed by
such factors as emotional stress, such physical stressors as lack of
sleep, physical over exertion, environmental chemical exposure, UV
and other types of radiation, common viral or bacterial infections,
drug therapies, blood transfusions or surgery.
A person’s eating habits can also
affect the functioning of their immune system. Too much fat, alcohol
and refined sugar along with too little protein, calories, vitamins,
minerals and water can impair immune system function. Also after age
40, the biological process of aging tends to compromise immune system
function.
Acquired infections or diseases (such
as AIDS) can also weaken the immune system. Primary immunodeficiency
diseases, such as Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID), are
genetically determined.
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