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The Immune System Connection

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Those who have a history of a weak immune system will find Lyme disease more challenging. There are many causes for immune deficiency. Immune system cells are produced by the thymus gland, spleen and other organs. Lymph vessels carry the cells through lymph vessels to the lymph nodes. They are stored there to create a barrier against infection.

If the Lyme disease patient has had a history of recurring sore throats and upper respiratory infections and is easily infected and reinfected by bacterial infections, it's most likely due to a poor immune system.

Thyroid hormone deficiency is a common cause for immune deficiency. An Endocrinologist is the specialist who can order the most thorough laboratory tests to determine if the patient has a hyper or hypo thyroid and can prescribe the correct amount of daily medication to stabilize it.

Chronic illnesses like Lyme disease can cause immune deficiency. A chronic illness is one that is long term and often recurring. There is no documented cure for Lyme disease at this point in time, however research is continuing so the possibility exists that there one day will be a cure. Until then, boosting the immune system is very important.

Here are some suggestions to build a strong immune system:

~Eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals and low in fat to build healthy cells.

~Exercise. It will increase your oxygen intake to strengthen the cardiovascular system and boost your metabolism to give you more energy.

~Vitamins A, C and E and the herb Echinacea boost immunity. Reduce stress with meditation, yoga, exercise, or drink stress relieving tea.

~Hairs that line the nose are a barrier to airborne germs. Keep the mucus membranes moist by keeping the humidity indoors between 30 and 50 per cent.

~Get adequate sleep. There is some evidence to support the theory that pre-midnight hours are more beneficial than those after midnight.

Building a strong immune system takes a multifaceted approach and is well worth the extra efforts.