Millions of pathogens or germs are present in our bodies. Every day, we encounter these germs, yet we do not always fall ill. This is due to the constant efforts of our immune system, which works tirelessly to keep us healthy.
Imagine you fall ill after eating street food and experience symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and cramps. What might be going wrong in your body? Is it simply because germs have entered, causing these symptoms, or is there an ongoing battle between the germs and your immune system?
Let’s delve into the conflict between germs and our immune system.
Organs of the Immune System
The organs involved in the immune system include:
- Skin: The first line of defence against germs, acting as a physical barrier.
- Mucous membranes: These trap germs.
- Blood: Contains lymphocytes, neutrophils, and macrophages that help produce antibodies and perform phagocytosis, killing germs.
Additionally, the organs of the lymphatic system include:
- Spleen: Stores lymphocytes and phagocytes.
- Thymus: Where T cells (a type of lymphocyte) mature.
- Lymph nodes: Trap germs.
- Bone marrow: Produces immune system cells.
- Tonsils: Contain white blood cells (WBCs) that kill germs.
Immunity
Immunity refers to the body’s ability to defend itself against disease-causing microorganisms, known as pathogens. The immune system is composed of various organs, cells, and proteins that work in unison to protect us from invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, cancer cells, and toxins produced by germs. This system also aids in healing from infections and injuries.
Different Types of Immune Systems
There are two main types of immune systems:
- The Innate (Natural) Immune System: This is the body’s first line of defence against pathogens. It responds immediately upon detecting an invader. The skin, eye cornea, and linings of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, genital, and urinary tracts recognise pathogens and act swiftly to prevent them from reaching the bloodstream or tissues.
If pathogens breach these defences, the second line of defence activates, consisting of immune system cells and proteins. White blood cells (WBCs) eliminate invaders through a process called phagocytosis. - The Acquired (Adaptive) Immune System: This system develops over time and works in tandem with the innate system. It is responsible for fighting specific germs that the body has previously encountered by producing antibodies.
Phagocytosis
Phagocytosis is a process conducted by a type of WBC, known as neutrophils. Neutrophils and macrophages engulf harmful pathogens, destroying them and thus preventing the spread of infection.
The Acquired Immune System
This system develops throughout our lives and is designed to combat specific germs we’ve encountered before. It creates special proteins called antibodies to fight invaders. These antibodies are produced by a type of WBC called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are produced in the bone marrow and either remain there to mature into B lymphocytes or travel to the thymus gland to mature into T lymphocytes.
- B lymphocytes: Act like the body’s military intelligence. When they detect foreign agents (antigens), they produce antibodies to attach to these invaders and mark them for destruction.
- T lymphocytes: Function like soldiers. They destroy invaders identified by B lymphocytes.
Types of T Cells
- T memory cells: These remember pathogens the body has encountered before and destroy virus-infected cells.
- T helper cells: These release proteins called cytokines to activate B cells and strengthen the immune response.
- T regulatory cells: They act like police, shutting down attacks once pathogens have been eliminated.
- Cytotoxic T cells: These cells kill cancerous cells.
- Dendritic cells: These antigen-presenting cells act as messengers between the innate and adaptive immune systems.
Strengthening Your Immune System
Here are some helpful ways to support your immune system:
- Include micronutrients (vitamins) in your diet.
- Stay up to date with vaccines as recommended.
- Exercise regularly: Moderate-intensity exercise can help maintain immune function.
- Stay hydrated: Water is essential as it helps blood and lymph, which carry immune cells, to circulate effectively.
- Get plenty of sleep: Sleep is crucial for maintaining immune homeostasis.
- Manage stress: Practices like deep breathing, meditation, or prayer can help alleviate stress, which otherwise weakens the immune system.
Also Read: 10 Fitness Activities for Students
Conclusion
The immune system plays a vital role in protecting our bodies. As long as it functions properly, we don’t notice the constant threats we encounter. However, when it falters, we often become ill. Understanding how our immune system works and taking steps to strengthen it are essential for maintaining good health.
Be strong, be healthy, and stay safe.
“The first wealth is health.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Also Read: Food Poisoning in Children: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
