How to remain Healthy when Immunocompromised

Details: Category: Region 9; Published: 13 September 2022

Healthy even immunocompromised The immune system, according to Morgan Meissner, is the body's built-in defense against pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. According to the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC), when the immune system doesn't function as it should, dangerous illnesses may occur more frequently. Due to a variety of illnesses and medical procedures, some people are deemed to be mildly, moderately, or severely immunocompromised (have a reduced immune system). This includes people who are taking immunosuppressant medications and have had active cancer treatment, organ transplantation, moderate to severe primary immunodeficiency, advanced or untreated HIV infection, or who are receiving high-dose corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medications as part of active cancer treatment.

There are several measures that people with weakened immune systems can do to increase their chances of staying healthy and preventing illnesses. By maintaining excellent hygiene, which includes often washing your hands, a person with a weakened immune system can stay healthy in one of the simplest ways possible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise washing hands before preparing meals and snacks, before eating, after sneezing, coughing, blowing one's nose, after treating cuts or other open skin wounds, and after coming into touch with someone who is ill. Additionally, Jenna Fletcher of Medical News Today advises those with weakened immune systems to stay away from those who are contagious with the flu or another virus. Through close contact, viruses and other contagious diseases can spread from person to person. They can also disperse in the water droplets that a person coughs or sneezes into the air.

After being exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, people who already have compromised immune systems are more likely to get severe COVID-19 symptoms. The CDC advises those at higher risk to avoid leaving their homes during the pandemic, wash their hands often, try to keep 6 feet away from other people, and constantly clean and disinfect surfaces. Some surfaces and objects in the home, like doorknobs and remote controls, can harbor germs that have the potential to cause illnesses. By frequently disinfecting them, a person can lower the number of germs that live in these places and on these things. Most people should maintain their vaccination schedule, according to doctors' recommendations. They might suggest delaying or forgoing certain doses for someone with a weakened or damaged immune system, though. Most people should try to adhere to the immunization schedule suggested by the CDC. However, those with weakened immune systems should speak with a doctor to determine which vaccinations are safe for them to receive and then heed their advice.

Stress might further compromise one's immune system and increase one's susceptibility to disease. According to several studies, someone who is under a lot of stress is more likely to become ill. It's important for those with weakened immune systems to control their stress. Stress and sleep deprivation both have an impact on the immune system of the body. White blood cells are a vital part of the immune system of the body and their normal production is disturbed by lack of sleep. The CDC recommends that adults aim for at least 7 hours of sleep per day, while newborns and children, depending on their age, require between 8 and 17 hours of sleep. Jenna Fletcher further recommends that a nutritious diet is important for someone who has a weakened immune system. A balanced, healthy diet can enhance a person's general well-being. The body remains healthy with regular exercise. Exercise not only makes the body stronger but also releases endorphins that lower stress. The immune system can become even more compromised if someone with a weak immune system pushes themselves too hard.

Your risk of experiencing life-threatening consequences rises if you are immunocompromised. But there are steps you may take to better safeguard yourself if your immune system isn't functioning at its best. Some of the things that can assist include getting vaccinated, avoiding persons with active infections, routinely testing for COVID-19, getting frequent checkups, and adhering to a healthy diet. Furthermore, if you know someone who is immunocompromised or lives with them, using these suggestions can help you keep them safe and secure.

ZDS DMO II Marie-Claire Gaas, RND

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