How does our body protect us if the pathogens get into blood?
1. White Blood Cells: Specialized white blood cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, act as our body's first line of defense against pathogens in the blood. They can identify, engulf, and destroy these foreign invaders through a process called phagocytosis.
2. Antibodies and the Complement System: When pathogens enter the bloodstream, our immune system produces antibodies that specifically target them. Antibodies bind to the pathogens, marking them for destruction. Additionally, the complement system, a group of proteins present in the blood, is activated by antibodies. This activation leads to the formation of membrane attack complexes, which create pores in the pathogens' cell membranes, causing their destruction.
3. Fever Response: An elevated body temperature, known as a fever, is a common immune response to infection. Higher temperatures can inhibit the growth and replication of some pathogens, making it harder for them to survive.
4. Blood Clotting: In cases where pathogens cause damage to blood vessels, the body initiates the blood clotting process. Blood platelets and proteins in the blood plasma work together to form a clot, preventing excessive bleeding and restricting the spread of pathogens at the site of infection.
5. Lymph Node Activation: Pathogens that enter the bloodstream can be transported to lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped organs located throughout the body. Within lymph nodes, specialized immune cells, including lymphocytes, encounter and eliminate the pathogens.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of these defense mechanisms depends on the type and virulence of the pathogen, as well as the overall health and immune status of the individual. Some pathogens have evolved strategies to evade or suppress our immune responses, making infections more challenging to overcome. In severe cases, medical intervention and treatment may be necessary to support the body's defense against blood-borne infections.