From colds to mycosis: Weakened immunity can cause a range of health problems

The immune system is a complex mechanism that counts on the interplay of numerous cells and organs. Not even advanced experts know all the details of how it works. It works like a security service for the human organism and protects the body from unwanted influences from the external environment. A well-functioning immunity can cope with microorganisms such as bacteria, parasites, and viruses. When it’s weakened, however, it’s less able to cope with microbes, which leads to a greater risk of various diseases. “The immune system is effective mainly because it deals with each pathogen individually. A failure or weakening of the immune system then means a disruption in the functions of some of its components. The consequence is obvious – the body becomes more susceptible to various diseases,” explains MUDr. Tomáš Konvička, an adult general practitioner and Head of Occupational Health Services at EUC PLS.

Your immune system can be either inborn or acquired. When dealing with immunity disorders, we more often talk about an acquired weakening of the system. Acquired immunity disorders, as opposed to genetically inborn, are caused by external factors and develop during life. The immune system begins to develop before birth and continues throughout life. Immunity is strongest in adults, who have usually already experienced a number of diseases; it’s this “memory” that makes them much better prepared for the onslaught of foreign organisms than, for example, in childhood. As we age, however, the immune system declines again.

The dangers of diseases of civilization

Diseases of affluence, also referred to as diseases of civilization, have become an unwanted accomplice of modern times. Despite the development of medicine, their frequency is constantly increasing. HIV, diabetes, cancer treatment, cardiovascular disease, the use of immunosuppressive drugs – these and many other factors can cause immune system failure. The immunological memory of the body is also literally wiped out by measles.

“Chronic stress also contributes to the development of autoimmune diseases and a weakened immunity. Modern studies show that there is a link between a person’s psychological profile and the immunity of their organism," adds Tomáš Konvička, MD. “The current situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic is also not good for the psychological state – and more and more people are living with long-term stress.”

How to recognize a weakened immunity

Several symptoms can indicate weakened immunity. Often these include chronic fatigue and a general susceptibility to seasonal illnesses such as flu or colds. Since up to 80% of the immune system is created in your intestines, disorders can also cause digestive problems, reduced appetite, or a repulsion towards food in general. Your appearance can also indicate that something is wrong with the body. Immunocompromised patients are more likely to suffer from eczema, chapped corners of the mouth, or cold sores. Immunity problems often underlie a range of skin problems such as dandruff, warts, or fungal nail disease.

Provide support, but within reason

One of the most common causes of a weakened immune system is inadequate vitamin and mineral intake. Many times, it is not the quantity and quality of the food we eat that matters, but the composition of the food. One of the problems of our time is an irrational and unbalanced diet. Especially in the winter months, people are usually deficient in vitamins A, C and B, the “sunshine vitamin” D, as well as zinc and antioxidants. In addition, the global problem of micronutrient deficiencies in cultivated food also affects the balance of the diet. Vitamins or dietary supplements are not magic pills that can tame all diseases. “The use of supplements should be sensible and well thought out. If you’re unsure about choosing the right vitamins, it is advisable to consult your doctor or pharmacist. It’s important to bear in mind that even vitamins can be overdosed, and an excess of vitamins will do more harm than good. Laboratory tests help to determine the exact deficiency of specific elements and vitamins in the body," points out MUDr. Konvička.

How to detect a problem in time?

“Preventive laboratory examinations can not only verify whether you’re suffering from a deficiency of any of the necessary minerals, but it can also help to compile a general overview of your health. For example, the laboratory package “ Prevention Complex“ checks all basic indicators and gives you valuable information about the current state of the body, for example, the function of the liver and pancreas. It can also reveal the risk of cardiovascular diseases," explains Petr Podroužek, MD, CSc., EUC Laboratories’ Expert Director. A new feature of EUC Laboratories is the testing of cellular immunity against coronavirus. This is provided by white blood cells and is the first line of defense against infections. The blood test reveals whether the immunity is ready to protect the body against COVID-19 disease in the long term – regardless of whether the patient has had it in the past.

Packages include not only the laboratory test itself, but also a follow-up consultation with a doctor via the  Physician Online 24/7 telemedicine service. The doctor will contact the patient after the test is evaluated via chat or video call, explain the test results, or recommend further action.