5 Warning Signals Sent by Your Immune System... Learn About Them

SadaNews - The immune system may undergo gradual changes throughout life, whether due to aging, lifestyle, or certain illnesses. According to a recent health report published by the specialized site Verywell Health, the body may send clear - and sometimes subtle - signals indicating that the immune system is no longer functioning with the same efficiency, or that it is undergoing a transformation.

 

Frequent or Prolonged Colds

One of the most prominent signs that may indicate a change in the immune system's function is the recurrence of colds or infections, or their duration being longer than usual. If a person notices that recovery has become slower, or that a mild infection is turning into a chronic issue, this could be a sign of weakened immune response.

Persistent Fatigue Without Clear Reason

Doctors also point out that constant fatigue, even with good sleep and not exerting much effort, may be related to immune disorders. An overactive immune system - as seen in some autoimmune diseases - continuously consumes the body's energy, reflecting in general exhaustion.

Slow Wound Healing

The immune system also plays a crucial role in tissue repair and fighting infections. Therefore, slow healing of wounds or recurrent skin infections may indicate that immune cells are not performing their role efficiently, especially in the elderly or diabetic patients.

Frequent Digestive Disorders

The digestive system contains a large portion of the immune cells in the body. Hence, issues like frequent diarrhea, chronic bloating, or unexplained abdominal pain may reflect an imbalance in immune function, especially if accompanied by allergies to foods that previously caused no issues.

Changes in Immune Response

The report indicates that the emergence of new allergies - whether to foods, medications, or environmental factors - may be evidence of a change in the way the immune system responds. Conversely, some people may notice that symptoms of old allergies have become milder, which reflects a change in immune activity, not necessarily a permanent improvement.

Aging and Its Impact on Immunity

As people age, the immune system undergoes a process known as immunosenescence, where its ability to fight infections decreases, while the likelihood of chronic inflammation may increase. This is why the elderly are more susceptible to complications from infectious diseases.

Experts recommend consulting a physician if these signs recur or coincide, especially in the presence of unexplained weight loss, repeated fevers, or infections that do not respond to treatment.

Doctors also emphasize that a change in the immune system does not always indicate a serious illness, but it is a signal that deserves attention. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, adequate sleep, physical activity, and stress reduction remains the first line of defense to support immunity and maintain its balance as one ages.