What Compromises an Immune System?

When the immune system becomes compromised, its ability to fight infection and disease is diminished. Instead of using antibodies to attack foreign matter that can lead to illness, a compromised immune system uses antibodies to attack healthy body organs and tissues.

Aging

• The physical and hormonal changes that occur in the body as it ages affect its ability to fight infection, making it more susceptible to illness (see Resources).

Stress

• High stress levels, which can be caused by losing a job, having relationship or financial problems, or losing a loved one, also play a role in compromising the immune system (see Resources).

Diet

• Starvation or inadequate nutrition can severely limit the immune system's ability to fight infection, illness and disease (see Resources).

Illness

• An HIV infection interferes with the immune system's ability to ward off illnesses such as pneumonia and cancer (see Resources).

Drugs

• Medications given to patients following transplant surgery are manufactured for the purpose of suppressing the immune response in order to prevent the body from attacking the foreign matter (transplant) and causing it to be rejected (see Resources).