Diseases of the immune system. Severe stress can cause an overactive immune system

Immunity- a concept known to everyone. Thanks to it we are less likely to get sick or strong enough to cure the flu in just three days, thanks to it we are protected from unexpected and dangerous infection and we get many diseases only once in our lives. But this system is so complex that it is impossible to describe it in a few words. And the problems that arise in the operation of this system are so diverse and heterogeneous that it can be quite difficult to determine the causes of decreased immunity or other diseases.

Immune system quite closely connected with all organs, which is obvious, because in human body nothing exists on its own. Of course, a disorder in one of the body systems is instantly reflected in the work of others. The protective functions of the body as a whole are responsible for the adequate functioning of all internal organs, for the state of liquids and other substances, for the reaction to various factors, for our well-being, for the duration and severity of any disease... The list can be endless.

If everything is so interconnected, it is believed that problems in the immune system can occur for any reason. But the most common and irreversible is heredity. Moreover, it may not be an immune problem that is genetically determined, but a certain disease that negatively affects the functioning of the entire organism.

Other causes of immune diseases include the following:

  • various viral and bacterial infections;
  • exposure to toxins;
  • hepatitis;
  • tuberculosis;
  • environmentally unfavorable atmosphere;
  • overheat;
  • irradiation;
  • congenital defect necessary substances in the body;
  • low standard of living;
  • metabolic disorders;
  • other diseases requiring surgical intervention;
  • nervous disorders including mental illness;
  • insomnia.

Types of immune system diseases

Autoimmune pathologies– when the immune system works to the detriment of its own organs. That is, the system perceives its own internal cells as hostile and destroys them, causing irreparable damage to the functioning of the entire organism. Among the known diseases associated with a similar process: sclerosis, arthritis, diabetes mellitus etc.

IN in this case, as a rule, immunosuppressants are used that reduce the activity of their own protective functions body, which allows you to ward off pathological
effect of immunity.

Immunodeficiency diseases– when the system as a whole does not work fully. There are congenital and acquired immunodeficiencies. Accordingly, the first group of diseases is diagnosed in childhood, since refusal immune system becomes obvious at the first colds and viral infections.
Acquired immunodeficiencies occur as a result of nervous disorders, injuries and other diseases.

Acquired immunodeficiencies also include:

  • AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) as a result of infection with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus);
  • hepatitis;
  • tuberculosis;
  • infections typical for hot countries;
  • flu;
  • pneumonia.

In general, regardless of the nature of immunodeficiency, it manifests itself standard symptoms:

  • fatigue;
  • frequent and prolonged respiratory diseases;
  • stool disorder, which is associated with the occurrence of dysbacteriosis due to the development pathogenic flora, since the immune system cannot cope with protective functions;
  • development of tumors.

Treatment of such a condition, as a rule, begins symptomatically: with antibiotics in the case of a bacterial infection, antiviral in the case of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections, etc. The main reason is immunodeficiency– requires serious intervention in the functioning of the body. In particular, immunomodulators are used varying degrees effects, as well as drugs that, by their action, partially replace the work of the body and help restore the immune system.

Overactive immune system: the reaction occurs to any foreign object too actively. Usually this is an allergy, when a factor common to many people causes inadequate reaction body. This condition especially dangerous for those who have received organ transplants. In this case, immunosuppressants are used, which help reduce the effect of protective functions, and the transplants take root. In many other cases, symptomatic medications are used. For example, a course of antihistamines is taken or in the event of a reaction, removing the consequences of such an effect. Depending on the characteristics of the allergy, other courses of treatment are used, in particular when bronchial asthma a course of treatment is carried out aimed at regulating the functioning of the immune system, reducing the incidence of complications, and relieving bronchospasm.

Diagnosis of immune system diseases

To identify immune diseases, various forms of examination are used:

  • blood test for the presence of specific immunoglobulins;
  • allergy testing;
  • determination of autoimmune processes;
  • availability inflammatory processes And infectious diseases, their course - duration and severity;
  • response to physical activity;
  • immunogram as an answer to questions regarding the production of interferon, necessary for protection against viral and bacterial infections, etc.

Treatment of immune diseases

For mild forms of dysfunction of the immune system, drugs are used that correct the functioning of protective functions in the right direction: immunomodulators in case of insufficient protection against viral and bacterial infections, for example. Also used general strengthening measures: hardening, physiotherapy, etc.

Severe forms, in addition to mandatory and in-depth examination, require the intervention of replacement therapy or the use of immunosuppressants, the use of which is justified by serious deviations from the norm, because even with allergies similar drugs threaten increased susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections.

In any case, restoration of immunity, as well as its correction, are necessary, since untimely treatment may not lead to the desired results, and the risk of developing more serious illnesses is also present with minor deviations in the functioning of the body’s protective functions.

Trauma or severe stress may increase your chances of developing an autoimmune disease, new research suggests. When comparing more than 106,000 people who had experienced a stress disorder with one million people without such an experience, the researchers found that stress was associated with a 36 percent risk of developing 41 autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn's disease and celiac disease.

“Patients suffering from severe emotional reactions after trauma or other stress should resort to medical treatment due to the risk of these symptoms developing into chronic form and thus further deterioration of health as a result increased risk autoimmune disease,” says lead researcher Dr. Huan Song from the University of Iceland in Reykjavik.

The body's immune system protects you from disease and infection. But autoimmune diseases turn the body's natural defenses against itself, attacking healthy cells. It is not clear what causes autoimmune diseases, but they tend to occur among members of the same family. In particular, women, Blacks, Hispanics, and Native Americans have more high risk development of certain autoimmune diseases, the researchers say.

Song adds that treating stress-related disorders can help reduce the risk of developing autoimmune diseases. “There are now several treatment options, both medication and cognitive behavioral approaches, with documented effectiveness,” she says. For example, treating patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with antidepressants such as selective inhibitors serotonin reuptake drugs (SSRIs) may help reduce the risk of autoimmune disease, especially when taken in the early years after diagnosis, Song says. But she cautions that because this is an observational study, it is impossible to prove that stress causes autoimmune diseases, only an association.

In the study, Song's team studied Swedish patients from 1981 to 2013. with diagnoses of stress disorders such as PTSD, acute reaction to stress, adjustment disorder and other stress reactions. The researchers compared these people with their siblings and other people without stress disorders.

One expert in PTSD says that the effects of severe stress have been linked to a number of health problems. “Many studies link stress and negative events V childhood, such as injury and lack of attention, with subsequent medical problems, including immune ones,” says Mayer Bellehsen, director of the Integrated Behavioral Health Center for Military Veterans and Their Families in Bay Shore, New York. “It is also noteworthy that when people began to receive effective treatment, their risk has been reduced,” he adds.

While it is unknown why stress may increase your chances of developing an autoimmune disease, Bellehsen offers several possible explanations. These include the impact of stress on lifestyle - for example, sleeping less or taking more medicines or alcohol. Stress can also directly affect nervous system, he says. "Regardless of the reason, this study adds evidence of a connection between stressful conditions And physical condition health, which requires further attention to reducing trauma and other causes of stress disorders, as well as improving the treatment of such conditions,” says Bellehsen.

With autoimmune diseases, a person’s immune system mistakenly begins to attack any parts of his body, considering them foreign and dangerous to the body. Research shows that immune system dysfunction is one of the ten leading causes of death among women worldwide. age groups up to 64 years old. There are over 80 different autoimmune diseases, but they all have some general symptoms.

It is very important to pay attention to the first signs of the disease, because early diagnosis helps prolong life, improve its quality and reduce the number and severity of exacerbations. So what are the signs that something is wrong with your immune system and it's time to see a doctor? Check if you are at risk.

1. Headaches, brain fog, trouble concentrating

Headaches, unclear thinking, and other similar symptoms can seriously affect your quality of life. They can be related to stress or lack of sleep, but are also signs of immune system dysfunction (such as lupus or anemia).

2. Acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, lupus

Skin problems cause a lot of inconvenience, because it is very difficult to look great when a rash appears on your face, or you have to hide it under a load of clothes. If usual remedies do not help, you should visit a doctor, as these symptoms may be caused by hemolytic anemia, psoriasis, scleroderma and other disorders.

3. Allergic asthma

Scientists still doubt whether there is a link between asthma and autoimmune disorders. However, there are many studies that support the autoimmune origin of this disease.

4. Fatigue or hyperactivity

These symptoms are the most common for almost all autoimmune conditions. In most cases, causeless fatigue or, conversely, hyperactivity are very important sign immune system disorders. You may feel that your usual activities require more energy from you, and after completing even simple tasks you feel drained. Or maybe you wake up even more tired than you were before bed, even if there's no reason for it.

5. Weakness, stiffness and muscle pain

Muscle weakness and pain may occur when you are engaged in daily activities, such as climbing stairs or moving heavy objects. These symptoms may come and go, but should not be ignored as they may be caused by autoimmune hepatitis, Hashimoto's disease, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases.

6. Stomach cramps, gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation

Digestive problems may be a sign of autoimmune diseases such as celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, disorders thyroid gland and many others.

7. Unreasonable weight gain or loss

Some autoimmune diseases affect the thyroid gland, an organ that controls many metabolic processes in our body. If thyroid gland begins to produce more hormones than the body needs, or, conversely, an insufficient amount of them, a person can suddenly lose or gain weight.

8. Numbness and tingling in the arms and legs

Tingling and numbness in the arms and legs are not considered serious symptoms if they come and go without causing any pain. But if they appear several times a week along with other symptoms of immune system dysfunction, they may indicate a more serious problem.

9. Hair loss

When the immune system begins to attack hair follicles, this leads to hair loss. The process begins due to inflammation of the scalp, but can also affect hair on other areas of the body.

10. Mild fever

A slight increase in body temperature without any other symptoms is often ignored. But this is one of the most complex symptoms for treatment. The problem is that fever can be associated with many diseases, including autoimmune diseases.

Don't despair if you notice any of these symptoms. There may be other reasons for them. But the first thing you need to do is see a doctor. It is better to take care of your safety in advance than to regret later.

The immune system's job is to seek out, recognize and destroy pathogens - disease-causing substances or organisms such as bacteria and viruses. As you fight against the invaders and invaders, your body exhibits symptoms of illness such as fever and malaise.

An overactive immune system leads to autoimmune disorders. In such cases, for an unknown reason, the immune system mistakes healthy tissue for foreign tissue and attacks it. Another type of immune system error is when it overreacts to something harmless, as happens with allergies. The opposite cases, when the immune system does not provide an adequate response, are expressed in immunodeficiency diseases such as AIDS.

In practically healthy people, the immune system may be temporarily depressed. When this happens, your body becomes more vulnerable and susceptible to infection that is more severe and longer than usual. Many things can temporarily weaken the immune system, including toxins from environment, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity and sleep, excess tobacco and alcohol.

Symptoms

  • Mostly, immune system problems manifest themselves in the form of a tendency to colds, flu and various infections that occur more often than usual. You get tired faster or develop allergies. For specific symptoms of immune system diseases, see Allergies, Arthritis, Asthma, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Diabetes, Hay Fever and Multiple Sclerosis.

Contact your doctor if:

  • you suspect you have an immune system disorder. You need a correct diagnosis to prescribe the necessary treatment.

How to prevent disease

  • Avoid overeating and do not abuse alcohol, coffee or tobacco. Get plenty of rest, exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet.
  • Do not treat infections immediately with antibiotics unless your doctor thinks it is necessary. The immune system strengthens with every battle it wins, so help it fight with drugs less potent than antibiotics, such as vitamins, homeopathic remedies and herbs, which will allow the immune system to do its job on its own.
  • As much as possible, avoid exposure to radiation, harmful chemicals, and long-term use of immunosuppressive medications such as corticosteroids, as all of these factors can harm the immune system.

Immune system diseases, list

Diseases and disorders of the immune system are classified according to the activity of the immune system. An overactive immune system has just as much potential to create health risks as an underresponsive immune system.

Below is a list of immune system disorders based on immune system activity

Hyporeactive states of the immune system

  • Immunodeficiency states
  • Severe combined immunodeficiency
  • AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)

Immune system hyperreactivity

  • Allergies (caused by either foods or medications, insect bites, or a specific substance
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Asthma
  • Autoimmune diseases

Other immune system disorders

  • Chediak-Higashi syndrome
  • Common variable immunodeficiency
  • hay fever Hives
  • Human T-lymphotropic virus type I
  • Hyperimmunoglobulinemia syndrome E)
  • Hyperimmunoglobulinemia syndrome M))
  • Primary immunodeficiency
  • Selective IgA deficiency
  • Skin allergies
  • X-chromosomal agammaglobulinemia

Immunodeficiency conditions

This is the largest group of diseases of the immune system, which includes various diseases that suppress the immune system. Often the reason immunodeficiency state is the main chronic disease.The symptoms of an immunodeficiency state are the same as those of the underlying disease.

Combined immunodeficiency - hereditary disorders immune system. Combined immunodeficiency is caused by a number of genetic abnormalities, in particular the X chromosome. Several types of recurrent infections are common in people suffering from combined immunodeficiency. In addition, they are also prone to contact diseases such as meningitis, pneumonia, measles, chicken pox, oral candidiasis, herpes, blood diseases, etc. Diseases of the immune system in children suffering from combined immunodeficiency become obvious in the first 3 months after birth.

AIDS: HIV/AIDS is a serious immune system deficiency and one of the leading causes of death worldwide. AIDS develops over late stages progression of HIV infection, when the body's immune system, after slow deterioration, comes to a state of complete collapse. AIDS is considered a life-threatening disease transmitted through sexual contact, physical contact, blood transfusion, sharing needles and the like. The chances of survival for AIDS patients are negligible if the diagnosis is made at later stages. Symptoms of immune system damage associated with AIDS range from common cold and influenza to pneumonia and cancer.

Allergy: Allergy is a response of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless to life, called allergens. There are many allergens such as pollen, mold spores, latex and certain foods like peanuts or medications such as penicillin that can cause allergies. In many cases, there is more than one allergen responsible for inducing allergic reaction. Although allergy symptoms are often mild, it is recommended to diagnose the underlying problem.

Anaphylactic shock: Anaphylactic shock is a serious, extreme form of allergy. In this condition, allergens, such as food, medications, or insect bites, act as a trigger and cause a series of physical symptoms discomfort. Itching, rash, throat swelling and falling blood pressure are some of the common symptoms of anaphylaxis. Anaphylactic shock can lead to emergency, if not diagnosed and treated in time.

Asthma: asthma, chronic lung disease, the basis of the disease is inflammation respiratory tract. Allergens, various irritants, or even stimulants such as physical activity, can initiate inflammation and cause various disorders breathing in humans. Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, etc.

Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases are a group of immune system dysfunctions in which immune system cells misinterpret signals and attack healthy cells own body. Autoimmune diseases pose a serious threat to human health. Autoimmune diseases can be considered as a special category immune disorders.

Chediak-Higashi syndrome: Chediak-Higashi syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disease caused by a mutation in the LYST gene (regulator of directional transmission). placement of lysosomes). This syndrome is manifested by recurrent purulent infections, partial albinism of the eyes and skin; neutrophils contain giant cytoplasmic granules. Transplantation is effective bone marrow. In addition, shown natural vitamins to help the immune system if the child's condition is not severe.

Common variable immunodeficiency: General variable immunodeficiency is characterized by a low level of antibodies in the body. Common variable immunodeficiency occurs mainly in adults. It may be present at birth but not appear until age 20. Symptoms of common variable immunodeficiency include bacterial infections ear, paranasal sinuses, bronchi and lungs. Painful swelling of the knee, ankle, elbow or wrist joints, general symptoms of inflammation. May be increased in some patients lymph nodes or spleen.

hay fever: Hay fever is very similar to allergies, caused by particles suspended in the air such as pollen, mold spores, and animal dander. Hay fever is also called allergic rhinitis, is extremely common in the world. Symptoms include runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, etc., which are very similar to a cold. The symptoms remain as long as you are in contact with the allergen.

Urticaria (urticaria). Urticaria is an acute skin reaction to an allergen. .An allergen is either food or contact with a specific plant. Blisters appear on the surface of the skin. These blisters are often itchy and round or flat. In addition to increased itching of the skin and blisters, a rash, swelling of the lips, tongue and face appear.

Human T-lymphotropic virus (retrovirus) and human T-lymphotropic virus (retrovirus) type II (HIV). They cause severe pathology of the human immune system. Most common among drug users and people who have multiple sexual partners. People with genital ulcers and survivors of syphilis are also prone to infection with lymphotropic viruses. The method of transmission of HIV is through sexual contact, blood transfusion, or during pregnancy from mother to fetus.

Hyper-IgE syndrome: Hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndrome or Jobe syndrome, characterized by increased levels of IgE in the blood serum. Hyper-IgE syndrome is characterized by recurrent staphylococcal infections, skin rash similar to eczema. This is a genetic disease and can be dominant or recessive. People with dominant hyper-IgE syndrome cannot lose their baby teeth and have two sets of teeth.

Hyper-IgM syndrome: Hyper-IgM is a rare immunodeficiency disorder. In hyper-IgM, the immune system cannot generate IgA and IgGj. This disease is caused by a defective gene in T cells. Due to this defect, B cells do not receive a signal to switch immunoglobulin synthesis genes from IgM to IgA and IgG antibodies, and thus continue the synthesis of IgM antibodies.

Primary immunodeficiency: Primary immunodeficiency diseases are a group of diseases of the immune system caused by genetic abnormalities. In this case, people are born with a faulty immune system. The symptoms and effects are the same as with AIDS, but unlike AIDS, the cause is not acquired, but congenital.

Selective IgA deficiency: This is a special immunodeficiency in which the immune system is unable to generate IgA antibodies. These antibodies protect the mucous membranes lining the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, IgA variant - secretory IgA.. It is obvious that in the absence of IgA, the mucous membranes are open to infections.

Skin allergies: Skin allergies are similar to any other allergies, with the only difference being that the immunological reaction to the allergen is realized on the skin e. Allergy is a reaction of the immune system to certain harmless substances. Skin allergies are characterized by redness and itching of the skin, sometimes blistering and some lesions.

X-linked agammaglobulinemia: X-linked agammaglobulinemia is genetic disease, at which
The body's ability to fight infections is impaired. The immune system does not produce enough antibodies to fight infections. Naturally, the body becomes a victim of many infections.

The above list of immune system diseases reflects only some of the major immune disorders. Along with these diseases, there are several genetic and acquired immunodeficiencies that affect millions of people around the world.

Since the immune system protects us from various infections and diseases, attempts are being made to strengthen it.