Drugs, Alcohol, and a Compromised Immune System

It seems as though there are plenty of people that want to believe that only the elderly and those with compromised immune systems have to worry about Covid-19. However, some people claim that the disease is going to rip through the population with no regard for age or health status. Unfortunately, right now, we do not have the testing and results to back up either claim. So, what do we do? At Phoenix Rising, we take all the precautions necessary and listen to the experts as they work toward finding solutions.

Now, if you have been diagnosed with a compromised immune system, you are probably accustomed to taking precautions. But, do the rest of us know the status of our immune systems?

Often Overlooked Signs of Compromised Immune System

• You are stressed: This is a tough one to identify. Let’s face it. Life is stressful. In addition to a laundry list of harm that stress puts on our minds and bodies, the American Psychological Association reports that prolonged stress lowers your body’s white blood cell production.
• Your common colds are too common: Usually, a healthy person should get one or two colds per year. That cold with moderate symptoms should last seven to ten days. If your colds last significantly longer or seem to hang on throughout cold and flu season, you may have a compromised immune system.
• You are regularly unregular: Gastrointestinal upset is an easy one to disregard when it comes to having a compromised immune system. Considering we all know that poor diet, dehydration, and stress can factor into that as well. But, the fact remains that more than 60% of your immune activity takes place in your intestines.
• Are you tired, drained, lethargic?: Yes, yes, and yes! A certain amount of tiredness is reasonable. Although, if you are getting an adequate amount of sleep and still feeling sluggish, it could be a sign that your immune system is working overtime to catch up.

Drugs, Alcohol, and a Compromised Immune System

Those of us that have struggled with drugs and or alcohol are pretty familiar with all of the symptoms listed above. If you are currently abusing drugs or alcohol, tiredness, stress, irregularity, and cold symptoms are probably the norm. Stressed, commonly ill, and tired with a regularly upset stomach. Sound familiar?

Indeed, the effects of alcohol and drug abuse are dependent upon length and frequency of use. However, even short-term or sporadic binging can seriously affect immunity. Here are only a few examples:

• Opiates inhibit the immune systems’ natural ability to locate and respond to infections
• Alcohol inhibits the immunity-sustaining activities of the gastrointestinal system
• Snorting and smoking drugs damage the mucus membranes in the nose, sinuses, and lungs
• Alcohol and drug use impede wound healing and post-surgery recovery
• Intravenous drug use leaves the user exposed continuously to infection

What Should You Do Right Now?

We are all faced with the threat of a virus, the magnitude of which is yet unknown. Abusing drugs and alcohol puts you at even higher risk than usual. As you probably know, drugs and alcohol lower your inhibitions and prevent you from making decisions in your own best interest. If you have been thinking about curbing your alcohol or drug use, or know that you have a problem and need help, there is no better time than right now.

Let this be the wake-up call.

Phoenix Rising is ready and able to help you find the road to recovery. Today, you can begin living a healthier, more fulfilling life. Are you prepared to lead a life free from addiction? If so, contact 8552328211 us today.