Compromised Immune System and COVID-19 Risks

As coronavirus continues to spread across the globe, those with a compromised immune system face higher risks. Groups of people with a compromised immune system include the elderly, the already sick, and substance abusers.

Addiction now poses a dual threat to the user: the normal threat of overdose and the new threat of being weak to COVID-19. Get yourself into a rehab program and improve your life dually — by going sober and by strengthening yourself against COVID-19.

How Addiction Weakens the Immune System

Individuals struggling with substance abuse disorders suffer from myriads of side effects as a result of the massive consumption of substances.

For instance, long-term drug use weakens your immune system. Substance abusers may experience addiction-related severe problems, such as heart conditions, respiratory illnesses, cognitive problems, and liver diseases, among others. On the other hand, weakened immunity makes them vulnerable to recurring infections.

Chronic abuse of alcohol impairs the functioning of the liver and pancreas, which disrupts the immune system. Drinking has also been associated with body conditions such as pneumonia, which increases the chances of contracting viral related flu.

At this time, when the world is trying to contain the COVID-19 virus, individuals should stay safe by avoiding the consumption of alcohol.

Marijuana is also another intoxicating drug whose main effects include harming an individual’s immune system. Consistent smoking of marijuana reduces the ability of the body to resist bacterial, viral, protozoa, and fungal infections.

What to Do If You Have a Weakened Immune System

If you are already aware that your immune system is has been weakened by some factors, COVID-19 is the last thing you will wish to contract. You need to take every possible measure to ensure that you stay safe and remain alive.

The most significant thing is to maintain proper hygiene to reduce your chances of contracting bacterial infections. According to the Center for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), wash your hands using sanitizers frequently to prevent a COVID-19 disease. This is especially true before and after meals, or after coming into contact with other people in public.

Also, disinfect your house and other household objects you use or touch regularly to eliminate germs and other disease-causing elements. Ensure that you get enough sleep because sleep deprivation further contributes to a compromised immune system.

Although the official vaccine of COVID-19 is not out yet, you can get a vaccination against other infections such as flu vaccine and ensuring that you follow all the vaccination schedules.

Overcome Addiction at Northern Illinois Recovery Center

For people struggling with substance abuse disorders, the best way to stay safe amid the COVID-19 outbreak is to check into Northern Illinois Recovery Center. Apart from providing you a quarantine zone, rehab will also address your drug addiction through various programs, such as:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Grief counseling program
• Dialectical behavior therapy
• Individual therapy
• 12-step therapy program
• Aftercare program

A robust immune system is a gateway to living a healthy and long life. If you have a compromised immune system, avoid exposing yourself to the risk of contracting infections—the inability to resist viruses risks not only your life but also the lives of everyone around you. Seek medical attention for your drug abuse disorder to reduce the chances of contracting COVID-19.

For information on Northern Illinois Recovery’s inpatient safety protocols, telehealth services, and addiction treatment, call 855.786.1978. Keep your immune system safe by choosing to start recovery, today!