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Immune system

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and even abnormal cells like cancer. It identifies, targets, and destroys anything it recognizes as foreign to the body.

🧬 Key Components of the Immune System

Component Function
White blood cells (leukocytes) Detect and destroy pathogens
Lymph nodes Filter harmful substances and house immune cells
Spleen Filters blood and stores immune cells
Thymus Matures T cells (a type of white blood cell)
Bone marrow Produces blood cells, including immune cells
Skin and mucous membranes Act as a physical barrier to infections

🧪 Types of Immunity

  1. Innate (nonspecific) immunity:

    • Present from birth

    • Provides a fast but general defense

    • Includes skin, mucous membranes, stomach acid

  2. Adaptive (specific) immunity:

    • Develops as you are exposed to diseases or vaccinated

    • Slower but highly specific and powerful

    • Involves B cells (produce antibodies) and T cells

    • Provides immunological memory for faster response in the future

⚔️ Main Immune Cells

Cell Type Role
B lymphocytes (B cells) Produce antibodies to target pathogens
T lymphocytes (T cells) Destroy infected or cancerous cells
Macrophages Engulf and digest pathogens and debris
Natural killer (NK) cells Attack and kill virus-infected and tumor cells
Dendritic cells Present antigens and activate T cells

🧠 Functions of the Immune System

  • Identifies and neutralizes foreign substances

  • Destroys damaged or dying cells

  • Remembers past infections for quicker responses

  • Helps in wound healing and controlling inflammation

⚠️ Common Immune System Disorders

Type Description
Autoimmune diseases The immune system attacks the body’s own cells (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
Immunodeficiency Weak or underactive immune system (e.g., HIV/AIDS)
Allergies Overreaction to harmless substances like pollen or food
Immune cancers Cancers of the immune system such as leukemia or lymphoma

💪 How to Support Your Immune System

  • Eat a balanced diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein)

  • Get adequate sleep

  • Engage in regular exercise

  • Manage stress effectively

  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol

  • Maintain good hygiene

  • Stay up-to-date on vaccinations

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