According to previous studies, opioids have a complex effect on the immune system. Some opioids, such as morphine and fentanyl, appear to cause immune suppression and increase the risk of pneumonia; others, such as buprenorphine and oxycodone, may enhance the immune system.

However, low doses and short-term, short-term use of other opioids may stimulate immune cells and the immune system. However, it is clinically clear that people with opioid and chronic substance abuse problems are at greater risk of infection, especially respiratory infections.

How do opioids affect one’s immune system?

The immunosuppressive effect of opioids was evident 30 years ago. It involves signing and acting directly on body cells, including B and T lymphocytes, NK cells, monocytes, and macrophages, as well as activating the lower hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) pathways leading to the production of cells. glucocorticoids inhibit immunity. peripheral and sympathetic nervous system.

Opioids that interact with both immune systems are innate and flexible and have direct effects on opioid receptors found in immune cells. Research on this topic has provided evidence of opioid influence on the immune response associated with surgical stress. The immunological effects of opioids are currently being investigated, in particular, whether they may contribute to the outcome of surgery or the underlying disease about important factors such as infection or progression of cancer.

Other reasons you may have a weak immune system:

Some common reasons you may have a weak immune system.

• Smoking

• Alcohol

• Poor nutrition

• Medication like chemotherapy or other cancer treatments

• Infections like. the flu, mono, and measles

• Autoimmune disorder

• HIV or AIDS

If your immune system is not working properly, doctors may tell you that you have an “immune system disorder” – which means you may have one or more of the following conditions:

• Immune deficiency: Immune deficiency is a congenital defect. This is known as the “first autoimmune disease” (PIDD). PIDs are genetic disorders that can damage or weaken the immune system. Although rare, PIDDs affect about 500,000 people in the US.

• Acquired immune deficiency. HIV, which causes AIDS, is an acquired virus that breaks down white blood cells and weakens the immune system. People with HIV / AIDS have hard time-fighting infections, especially if they do not get treatment.

• The immune system becomes overactive. When the immune system is overactive, it reacts to environmental factors such as mold, dust, and pollen.

• Autoimmune disease. When you have an autoimmune disease your body cannot differentiate between your cells and foreign cells (or potentially harmful antigens), which activates the immune system. There are more than 80 types of autoimmune disorders, including but not limited to type 1 diabetes, lupus, celiac disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Signs you may have a weak immune system:

Check out the warning signs and what you can do to give your immune system a boost.

1. Stress Level is Sky-High

2. Always Have a Cold

3. Have Lots of Tummy Troubles

4. Wounds heal slowly

5. Having Frequent Infections

6. Feeling Tired All the Time

When your immune system struggles, so do your energy level.

Immune System Boosters

If the above warning signs are known, you need to pay attention to your immune system. A few simple lifestyle changes and habits can keep your immune system strong and healthy:

• Eat a balanced diet

• Get enough sleep

• Exercise regularly

• Wash your hands

• Keep up with your vaccines

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Don’t smoke

• Try to minimize stress

Your immune system is the key to good health, so the more you can do to protect it, the better.