The main function of the immune system is to identify and protect the body from outside invaders such bad bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens such as fungi, parasites, or spirochetes (e.g. Lyme).
To function properly, the immune system needs to be able to discern between “self” and “nonself”. If the immune system gets overworked from being chronically activated, it could lead to autoimmunity, and disease such as Lupus (SLE), Hashimotos (Autoimmune Thyroiditis), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), and others. Autoimmunity occurs when your immune system starts attacking and destroying your own tissue.
An immune system that is under-functioning can leave you susceptible to bacteria, viral and fungal infections. An over-functioning immune system can lead to chronic inflammation, and the myriad of diseases that this causes, such as heart disease and cardiovascular events (heart attacks and strokes), chronic GI disturbances, and chronic muscle and joint pain.
Symptoms of Immune Dysfunction May Include:
- Fatigue
- Frequent infections
- Inflammation
- Chronic pain
- Rashes
- Yeast infections
- Exposure to pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungus/mold, parasites, Lyme, etc.
- Autoimmunity
- Hashimoto’s / Autoimmune thyroiditis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Lupus (SLE)
Testing May Include:
- WBC / CBC
- Antibodies
- Immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM, IgE)
- Complement system
- HDNK1 /CD 57
- Pathogen testing (eg. Epstein Barre, Lyme, numerous other bacterias and viruses)
- Immune activation from environmental chemicals and endocrine disruptors (eg. BPA)
- Heavy metal testing
Contact Dr. Engelbart now for more information.