The Immune System and Impaired Renal Function
Article posted in: Kidney Health

The immune system is crucial for our overall health and wellbeing. It helps protect us against unwanted pathogens, viruses, bacteria, and more. It is essential for survival and spreads out throughout the body. It is also involved with multiple organs, including the kidneys. (1)

The Immune System and Impaired Renal Function

The immune system has a direct impact on the progression of impaired renal function. Pathogenic responses against renal autoantigens often target the kidneys. (2) Antigens are molecules capable of stimulating the immune system response. (3) When kidney function begins to fail, there is an increase in the susceptibility of contracting an infection. On top of this, failing kidney function also leads to an exaggerated inflammatory response, which may have detrimental effects. (2)

Why Is This Important?

Having a robust immune system is vital for everyone, even people with optimum health. Without this system, we would be susceptible to attacks from viruses, bacteria, parasites, and more. Once the body produces an antibody, a copy of it remains in the body. When the antigen enters the body again, the immune system is ready to fight it off. (1)

Signs to Look Out for if You Have a Weakened Immune System

Frequent infections: This is one of the most common signs of weakened immunity. Someone with a weakened immune response is more likely to get infections than others. Sometimes, these infections take longer to heal. (4)
Always tired or fatigued
High-stress level
Stomach issues
Always have a cold

How Can You Naturally Balance the Immune System?

Balancing immunity can be achieved through several natural remedies. For example, taking certain supplements, like probiotics, prebiotics, and Vitamin C may help balance immunity. Other ways include getting enough recommended sleep each night and also taking steps to reduce stress. To read more on this topic, click here. Taking care of our immune system is important! Remember to always consult with your healthcare practitioner to find out which natural remedies may be best for you.

Citations

1: Newman, T. (2018, January 11). The immune system: Cells, tissues, function, and disease. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320101

2: Kurts, C., Panzer, U., Anders, H.-J., & Rees, A. J. (2013, September 16). The immune system and kidney disease: basic concepts and clinical implications. Retrieved from https://www.nature.com/articles/nri3523

3: Technology Networks. (2018, August 30). Antigen vs Antibody – What Are the Differences? Retrieved from https://www.technologynetworks.com/immunology/articles/antigen-vs-antibody-what-are-the-differences-293550

4: Weak immune system: Symptoms and what to do. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324930#takeaway

The Immune System and Impaired Renal Function
Article posted in: Kidney Health