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The immune system is a complex compilation of protective and disease-fighting cells that help keep us from getting sick. And while it may be something we take for granted, the immune system, much like the other systems of the body, is constantly at work keeping invaders at bay.
Here are six surprising facts you may not know about the inner-workings of your body’s defense mechanism and some tips to keep it up and running.
Illness symptoms prove your immune system is kicking into gear. Fevers and stuffy noses are often thought to be symptoms of a virus, but in reality these are the means in which your body fights infection.
A rise in body temperature is often your body’s way of killing off heat-sensitive germs and that annoying nasal congestion is the result of dilating nasal blood vessels, which allow for disease-fighting white blood cells to get to work. So rather than loading up on nasal sprays and fever-reducing cold formulas, give your body a chance to do its job using its own set of rules.
Sleepless nights may hit your immune system harder than you think. Nights of tossing and turning may result in more than bloodshot eyes or large dark circles, they may leave you more susceptible to colds and flus, too.
Research has shown that there is a reciprocal relationship between sleep and immune system-function, leaving those who log less hours resting more at risk for catching colds and other illnesses.