What does the immune system do?

 

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that protects the body from harmful substances, germs, and cell changes that could make you ill. It is made up of two main portions: the innate immune scheme & the adaptive immune system.

The innate immune scheme is the body's first line of protection against infection. It comprises physical barriers, such as the skin & mucous membranes, as well as cells that release chemicals to fight infection. The adaptive immune system is the body's more specific defense against infection. It learns to recognize specific germs and then produces cells and proteins that target those germs.

The immune system does a number of things to protect the body, including:

·        Detecting and destroying harmful invaders: The immune system can detect a wide variety of harmful invaders, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and cancer cells. Once an invader is detected, the immune system sends out cells and proteins to destroy it.

·        Protecting the body from its own cells: The immune system also protects the body from its own cells that have become damaged or cancerous. This is done by a process called self-tolerance, which means that the immune system learns to ignore the body's own cells.

·        Remembering invaders: The immune system keeps a record of every invader it has ever defeated. This is done by a type of cell called a memory cell. If the same invader enters the body again, the memory cells will recognize it and quickly mount an attack to destroy it.

The immune system is an essential part of the body's defense against infection. When it is working properly, it can keep the body healthy and prevent disease. However, sometimes the immune system can malfunction, leading to conditions such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, and cancer.

How does the immune system protect you?

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that work calm to protect your body from infection. It has two main parts: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system.

The innate immune system is your first line of defense against infection. It includes physical barriers, such as your skin and mucous membranes, as well as cells and proteins that can attack germs. For example, your skin is a physical barrier that prevents germs from entering your body. If a germ does manage to get through your skin, your innate immune system will send out cells and proteins to attack it. These cells and proteins can kill the germ directly or they can help to clear it from your body.

The adaptive immune system is your body's "memory" of infection. It learns to recognize specific germs and how to fight them. This is why you're less likely to get sick from the same germ twice. When you're exposed to a germ for the first time, your adaptive immune system will produce antibodies that specifically target that germ. Antibodies are proteins that bind to germs and help to disable them. If you're exposed to the same germ again, your body will already have antibodies that can fight it off quickly.

The immune system is a complex and powerful system that helps to keep you healthy. It's important to take care of your immune system by ingestion a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. You can also help to boost your immune system by getting vaccinated against common diseases.

 Here are some additional things you can do to support your immune system:

·        Manage stress. Pressure can weaken your immune system, so it's vital to discovery ways to manage stress in your life.

·        Get enough sleep. When you're sleep-deprived, your immune system doesn't function as well. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

·        Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet springs your body the nutrients it needs to fight off infection. Make sure to comprise plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.

·        Exercise regularly. Exercise assistances to boost your immune system and reduce your risk of infection. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity workout most days of the week.

·        Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken your immune system. If you smoke or drink unduly, talk to your doctor about how to quit.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your immune system strong and healthy.

Why is my immune system so weak?

There are many possible reasons why your immune system might be weak. Some of the most common causes include:

·        Age: As you get older, your immune system naturally starts to weaken. This is because your body produces fewer white blood cells, which are the main cells involved in fighting infection.

·        Chronic diseases: Some chronic diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, & diabetes, can weaken the immune system.

·        Medications: Some medications, such as steroids and chemotherapy drugs, can also weaken the immune system.