Immunodeficiency: What You Need to Know

Immunodeficiency happens when your immune system isn’t working well enough to protect you from infections. This can leave you more vulnerable to illnesses that most people fight off easily. There are different types—some people are born with it (primary), and others develop it over time (secondary), often due to diseases like HIV or certain medications.

If you keep getting infections or they last longer than usual, it might be a sign your immune system is struggling. Other symptoms could be persistent fatigue, slow-healing wounds, or frequent fevers. It’s not always obvious, so if you notice these patterns, talking to a doctor is a good idea.

Common Causes You Should Know

Primary immunodeficiency is usually genetic, meaning it runs in families or happens from birth. These are rare but serious and need medical care to manage. Secondary immunodeficiency is more common and can be triggered by factors like malnutrition, cancer treatments, autoimmune diseases, or infections such as HIV.

Medications like steroids or chemotherapy can also weaken your immune defenses. Even lifestyle habits, such as lack of sleep or high stress, might affect immune health, though usually less severely.

Simple Tips to Support Your Immune System

While some causes need specialized care, there are everyday steps you can take to support your immune system. Keep a balanced diet rich in fruits and veggies to get essential vitamins. Exercise regularly and get enough sleep—both key for a healthy immune response.

Always follow your doctor’s advice, especially if you have a diagnosed immune disorder. Stay up to date on vaccinations, avoid smoking, and practice good hygiene, like washing hands often, to lower infection risks.

Your immune health matters a lot, so noticing any unusual symptoms early on can make a big difference in getting treatment and staying well.