What Does the Immune System Do?

These days, we’re hearing a lot about how to prevent illness. We know the basics at this point—wash your hands often, disinfect commonly touched surfaces, stay home if you’re sick, limit your interactions with others, practice social distancing when outside your home, and wear masks in public.

But you can also take another step to protect your health. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Smyrna wants to share some tips on how to keep your immune system strong to fend off illness.

How Does Immunity Work?

We don’t often think about it unless we’re sick, but your immune system is a powerful force! It’s your body’s defense mechanism against germs, racing into action when a germ enters the body.

The immune system is complex and includes organs, tissues and cells, including your spleen, lymph nodes and skin, among others. When it’s working optimally, it can help fend off illness, but when it’s impaired, your defense system is weakened, too.

What Happens When Immunity Weakens

  • You feel overly stressed and overwhelmed.
  • You develop colds and other illnesses often.
  • You experience GI troubles, including diarrhea or constipation.
  • You have wounds that heal very slowly.
  • You feel fatigued all the time.

How Can I Protect My Immune System?

Healthy habits can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your immune system strong—and your body’s defense system engaged. Lowering your stress level is a good place to begin.

Your immune system doesn’t work as effectively when you’re stressed as it does when you’re calm and relaxed. That’s why you tend to get sick more often if you’re burnt out or worried.

Habits to Boost Your Immune System

  • Find healthy ways to manage stress, like meditation or hobbies.
  • Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days.
  • Limit your alcohol consumption.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Eat a balanced diet filled with fruits and veggies.
  • Get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.

Feeling less than your best? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Smyrna for a diagnosis and treatment plan to get you back to your best.