The immune system is the body's defense against infections and what it sees as invaders. It can detect when something has invaded the body that is not good for us. It is what fights colds, flus and any biological issue.
There are several cells and organs involved in helping protect the body.
These are also called leukocytes. They will attack invaders and basically eat them and send them off to be released from the body.
Monocytes. These break down bacteria
Neutrophils. They kill and digest bacteria and fungi. These are high in number and the first line of defense against infections.
Basophils. These "sound the alarm" when there is an invasion in your blood. They release histamine which starts an allergic reaction in attempt to release the toxin.
Eosinophils. These attack and kill parasites, cancer cells, and help with allergies.
Lymphocytes. These create antibodies to fight against bacteria and viruses.
There are 2 types of lymphocytes:
1. B Lymphocytes: These are created in bone marrow and mature to B cells. These find the invaders.
2. T Lymphocytes: These also start in bone marrow but go to the thymus gland under the sternum. These destroy the invaders.
When the body senses foreign invaders, they are called antigens. Our immune system discovers them and destroys them protecting us from harm.
B lymphocytes create antibodies (immunoglobulins). These are proteins that lock on the antigens and destroy them. They remain in our system so we can recognize if the same germ enters our system so they are recognized and destroyed. This is why once we have chicken pox, measles or mumps, we don't get it again.
Although these antibodies recognize an antigen and lock onto it. They need help and that is when the T Cells come in. They destroy antigens held hostage by the B lymphocytes. That is why some T cells are called "killer cells."
Chiropractic adjustments help lower stress hormones (like cortisol) that compromise the immune system and increase inflammation in the body. Treatments highly effect the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) which regulates and controls everything. Our breathing, heartbeat, digestion are all something we don't think about. We don't tell our heart when to beat. The ANS does that.
The ANS is also responsible for the Sympathetic and ParaSympathtic Nervous System. These either dialate or constrict blood depending on the stimuli.
Do I need to run? - Sympathetic.
Do I need to digest my food or sleep? - Parasympathetic.
By stimulating the body, we affect blood pressure and help the body function at its highest capacity. The lymphatic system is enhanced with adjustments allowing toxins to be released and helping blood flow to organs and the full body.
Dr. Amie Gregory, DC, CCEP, ANF helps with all facets of health. Whether you are in pain or want to live your best life, she can help. Contact us today!
References:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/the-immune-system#:~:text=The%20acquired%20immune%20system%2C%20with,stay%20in%20your%20child's%20body.
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentID=35&ContentTypeID=160
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/immune.html#:~:text=How%20Does%20the%20Immune%20System,proteins%20lock%20onto%20specific%20antigens.
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