Booze doesn’t stop at just hampering our immune response — it can even misdirect it. With flu season coinciding with the ongoing COVID-19 threat, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of alcohol consumption. Lowering your intake—or abstaining altogether—during this time can help marijuana addiction bolster your immune system, allowing your body to focus on fighting off seasonal illnesses. During this overreaction, immune cells that would normally fight invaders, and then retreat, instead begin to attack healthy tissue. If the storm is allowed to continue, the repeated attacks on healthy tissue can lead to serious organ damage in a short amount of time. “Alcohol intake can kill normal healthy gut bacteria, which help to promote health and reduce risk of infection,” Mroszczyk-McDonald said.
What Impact Does Alcohol Have on Mucosal Immunity?
Alcohol-induced inflammation and oxidative stress can trigger the production of self-reactive antibodies and the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy tissues. Although the precise mechanisms are still being explored, the altered balance of immune cells and inflammatory mediators can create an environment conducive to the development or worsening of these https://apusnovahospital.org/2021/05/06/7-powerful-recovery-symbols-to-celebrate-your/ conditions. Changes at the cellular level translate into compromised overall immune responses over time. Chronic alcohol use leads to long-term impairment of both innate and adaptive immunity. The innate immune system, which provides the body’s first line of defense, is disrupted, promoting inflammatory reactions that can damage tissues and organs.
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It’s not just about quantity; it’s about the quality of your immune response, and alcohol can seriously degrade that. In addition, heavy drinking can increase the risk of adult respiratory distress syndrome and other pulmonary diseases—including tuberculosis, pneumonia, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This is because the innate cellular defense system that protects our lung health is impacted by alcohol.
The Adaptive Immune System
This can help individuals safely detoxify from substances while minimizing discomfort. Our addiction professionals can help guide you or your loved into the care of the alcohol and immune system right facility for your situation. Ria Health offers several FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder.
- Cirrhosis, on the other hand, is irreversible and can lead to liver failure and liver cancer, even if you abstain from alcohol.
- Whether it’s cutting back on weekend binges or adopting healthier lifestyle habits, small changes can lead to significant improvements in immune function and overall well-being.
- Yes, drinking alcohol can raise your chances of getting some types of cancer, like those in your mouth, throat, and liver.
