Immune System Dysfunctions

The immune system is a complex system of the body that is responsible for fighting infection in the body. It involves the blood, skin, intestines, lymph fluid and many other areas of the body. There are two main types of immune dysfunctions – immunodeficiency and autoimmunity. Immunodeficiency is when the body does not recognize unwanted organisms and therefore does not fight them. Such disorders involved with this include infections, thrush, diarrhea and chronic or recurrent disease. Autoimmunity is when the immune system attacks part of the body, believing it to be an intruder. Examples of this include lupus, fibromyalgia, psoriasis and eczema. Treatments include herbal medicine, homeopathy, breathing techniques, stress management techniques, exercise, acupuncture, massage, and mind-body therapies.