How to Live Better With Immune Deficiency

Living with a primary immune deficiency is often difficult. Not only are germs a threat but friends and family may not understand the illness well. Secondary immune deficiency, such as that caused by chemotherapy, and acquired immune deficiency (AIDS) operates differently, but patients may share similar battles. Small steps can go a long way in minimizing infections and improving daily life.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Disinfectant
• Symptom journal
• Antibacterial gel, wipes or spray
• Stress relieving activities
• Medication and supplements as directed

Living Better With Primary Immune Deficiency

1. Ensure that your physician is experienced with immune deficiency. If needed, obtain a referral from the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF). All immunologists are not created equal and over 100 forms of immune deficiency exist. The most common forms include hypogammaglobulinemia, IgA and IgG subclass deficiency.
2. Washing hands is not enough to protect against germs. Tackle germs in the home regularly and more often than is common. Don't live in fear of germs but remain aggressive. Remember to disinfect areas such as keyboards, doorknobs, and refrigerator handles regularly and avoid sharing towels or letting dirty laundry build up.
3. Manage stress as it is more detrimental for immune deficiency patients. Find out what works for you, be it yoga, aromatherapy, meditation, or a good book. Seek outside help if needed. Stressful moments happen, but chronic stress lowers immune system functioning.
4. A symptom diary can help. Keep a symptom diary to better track your treatments and gain an understanding of cause and effect, including with your diet. Look for patterns of what works and what doesn't and when illness occurs.
5. Upgrade your diet to one that is as healthy as you can tolerate. Investigate foods and supplements that boost the immune system, not limited to garlic, vitamin C and Omega-3.
6. Minimize intestinal infection risks. Err on the side of caution for nearly expired food and those which harbor bacteria, such as diary, produce and meats. Try soy milk instead of dairy, eat fresh and well cooked meats, and wash produce very carefully.
7. Stay on top of colds and flu. Address colds and minor sinus infections promptly and don't rule out sinus or respiratory infection simply by the lack of fever. Many immune deficiency patients lack antibodies to produce standard symptoms in common illness. Consult you physician for medications that reduce mucus and minimize allergies and discuss antibiotic therapy regularly.
8. Consider Lactobacillus GG for proper intestinal health particularly during and following antibiotic therapy. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist on the most effective brands.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid crowds when possible during flu and cold season.
• Travel with a portable container of antibacterial gel or spray. Use in areas where germs are spread easily such as the grocery store and doctor's office.
• Talk with your doctor about medications designed to be taken at the first sign of flu.
• Learn more about your illness via the Immune Deficiency Foundation (www.idf.org).