Primary Immunodeficiency Disease: Everything You Need to Know About

As the name says, they are diseases or disorders that weaken the immune system. People who have it are either born with not a proper immune system or some of the immune defences of the body are missing. This makes them more susceptible to infections or diseases.

These disorders can be caused by problems in the genetic code and can be inherited.

Symptoms can be discovered as soon as the baby is born or later in life. You must see a doctor when the child is having infections frequently and is also not responding to treatments.

Some Common Symptoms of Primary Immunodeficiency Disease are:

• More frequent infections
• Inflammation of internal organs
• Anaemia or low platelet count
• Digestive disorders
• Delayed growth and development
• Autoimmune disorders

Diagnosis:
Blood tests can be done to measure the number of antibodies and immune cells to know the condition of the disease.

Treatment:
Antibiotics, antifungal, and antiviral medicines can be given. They are stronger than the medications given to people with normal immune systems and can be given intravenously too. Growth factor therapy is also advised to tackle the lack of certain immune cells.

Care:
These diseases can’t be prevented as they are inherited and caused by genetic defects. But we can surely prevent the frequent infections by the following ways:

• Good Hygiene Practices- Dirt and dust causes germs to accumulate. Keeping your environment clean, washing your hands regularly, taking good care of your skin, are a few practices that you can do to stay away from infections.
• Eating Right- A good, nutritious diet can help prevent infections. All the fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, with all the fibre and vitamin C can make for a stronger immune system. Avoid packaged food, sugary foods because they can cause inflammation in the body.
• Oral Health- The bacteria from the mouth can travel to the immune system causing infections. Practice good oral health to keep the bad bacteria out of your system. Brush, floss regularly.
• Physical Activity- Being in contact with pollutants, dirt and dust can make your body weak but being physically active is important. You can ask your doctor about the exercises you can do. Otherwise, yoga or light movements like walking can really help refresh your mind and body.
• Sleep On Time- Good amount of sleep is very important to restore the body. At least 8 hours of sleep is necessary for your body to produce new cells and make you healthier. You must always sleep and wake up on time every day.
• Good Mental Health- Mental stress can put your immune system in stress too. Meditate, practice gratitude, do yoga, give your hobbies more time to make your mind and system happy.

Footnote:
These disorders can’t be cured completely but precautions and extra care can be given to lead a healthy and normal life.