What can cause immunosuppression?
Immunosuppression can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and diabetes, can lead to immunosuppression.
- Medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, chemotherapy drugs, and immunosuppressive drugs, can cause immunosuppression.
- Transplants: Organ transplant recipients often require immunosuppressive drugs to prevent rejection of the transplanted organ.
- Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor nutrition, can also contribute to immunosuppression.
- Aging: The immune system naturally declines with age, making older adults more susceptible to immunosuppression.
It's important to note that immunosuppression can increase the risk of infections, including those caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. If you have any concerns about immunosuppression or your immune system, it's important to talk to your doctor.