Is Your Immune System Weakening? Tips for Improvement

Is the immune system weakened? How can it be improved?

Hello, Doctor Gao:
Over the past six months, I have experienced occasional small cuts on my fingers that are difficult to heal, often taking 3-4 weeks (each time a small cut turns into a small area of skin ulceration, but there is no inflammation).
The new skin that forms is very thin, and even using dental floss can cause it to break again; this has happened three times.
In the past month, I first developed dyshidrotic eczema on my hands, and although I applied a corticosteroid ointment, it hasn't fully healed.
Now, I have psoriasis on my arms, the back of my neck, and behind my ears, which is swollen, peeling, and itchy.
I am 64 years old and had surgery seven years ago for stage I lung adenocarcinoma, during which a lobe of my lung was removed, but I did not require chemotherapy.
I have CT scans every six months for monitoring.
I have been retired for six years and do not have any work, family, or financial stress.
I have always had allergic tendencies, primarily affecting my respiratory system (in California, I am affected by hay during the fall and flowers in the spring in mainland China), which has sometimes been severe enough to require corticosteroid injections.
However, in the past ten years in Taiwan, I have experienced very few allergies (occasionally coughing for a few days when the weather changes in autumn and winter), and I have not needed corticosteroid injections, only taking medication prescribed by my doctor.
I have had mild diarrhea for decades, with consistently soft stools, mainly due to pasta and dairy products (and now rice as well) causing bloating, and certain seafood can trigger one-time diarrhea.
I undergo gastrointestinal endoscopy every 2-3 years, with the most recent one being over a year ago, which has shown a few small polyps each time.
My sleep is generally normal, and I walk on a treadmill for an hour, covering 3-4 kilometers almost every day.
My diet is also normal; I do not smoke and occasionally drink a little alcohol (about once a week).
I do not feel fatigued or tired.
Could this be due to an immune system imbalance? Are there any methods to improve this condition? What are your recommendations? Thank you!

Chen Thomas, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/07

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Dear Mr.
Chen, thank you for your message.
Your symptoms are nonspecific, making it difficult to determine if there is an underlying immune dysfunction.
I have a few suggestions as follows:
1.
"Occasional small cuts on the fingers that are slow to heal, taking 3-4 weeks" - This type of epidermal damage that is prone to worsening may be related to immune dysfunction and may require further evaluation by a rheumatologist.

2.
"Hand eczema, which has not fully healed with steroid ointment, and psoriasis appearing on the arms, back of the neck, and behind the ears, with swelling, peeling, and itching" - It is important to confirm the accuracy of the diagnoses of "eczema" and "psoriasis," as sometimes psoriasis can be difficult to distinguish from "eczema." If it is eczema, then both eczema and vesicular eczema are manifestations of an allergic constitution, and it would be advisable to consult a dermatologist or rheumatologist for confirmation.

3.
The sensitivity of the gastrointestinal tract and tendency to diarrhea may be related to an allergic constitution.
If this is bothersome, you may want to see a rheumatologist.

Therefore, if necessary, you can compile your symptoms and consult a nearby rheumatologist.
The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is here to support you.

Reply Date: 2021/04/07

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of health issues that could be related to a weakened immune system or other underlying conditions. Your symptoms, including slow healing of minor cuts, the appearance of skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and your history of allergies, suggest that your immune system may not be functioning optimally.

Understanding Immune System Weakness
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful invaders. A weakened immune system can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, slower healing processes, and the development of autoimmune conditions. Factors that can contribute to immune dysfunction include chronic stress, poor nutrition, lack of sleep, and underlying health conditions.

Normal Immune Function
While there is no single "normal" value for immune function, various tests can assess different components of the immune system, such as white blood cell counts, immunoglobulin levels, and specific immune responses. A healthcare provider can help interpret these results in the context of your overall health.

Healing and Skin Conditions
The slow healing of your cuts and the development of skin conditions may indicate an issue with your immune response or skin barrier function. Conditions like eczema and psoriasis are often linked to immune dysregulation, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells.

Recommendations for Improvement
1. Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is crucial for immune health. Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids play important roles in supporting immune function.

2. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall health and can aid in the healing process.

3. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help boost your immune system. Since you are already using a treadmill, continue to engage in this activity, but ensure that it is at a level that feels comfortable for you.

4. Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, as sleep is vital for immune function and overall health.

5. Stress Management: Chronic stress can negatively impact your immune system. Consider incorporating stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises into your routine.

6. Avoid Irritants: Given your history of allergies, try to minimize exposure to known allergens and irritants, which can exacerbate your symptoms.

7. Consult a Specialist: Given your complex medical history, including lung cancer and gastrointestinal issues, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in immunology or dermatology. They can perform a thorough evaluation and recommend specific treatments or interventions tailored to your needs.

8. Regular Check-ups: Continue with your routine medical check-ups, including monitoring your lung health and gastrointestinal issues. Keeping a close eye on your health can help catch any potential problems early.

Conclusion
While it may take time to see improvements in your immune function and overall health, implementing these strategies can help support your immune system and promote healing. It's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as necessary. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you improve your health and well-being.

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