I Get Sick Very Often: Why Is It?
One of the most frequently asked questions in medical consultations is “Why do I get sick so often?” Many people want an answer to this question, since, constantly, they often have flu, colds, pain, digestive problems, prolonged fatigue and many other symptoms that give a feeling of illness.
The truth of all is that there are many factors that can explain why some people tend to feel sicker than others. Alterations of the nervous system, the function of the immune system and hormonal changes have a lot to do with this. To learn more about it, here are some possible causes.
Why do I get sick so often? Possible causes
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn that a large number of chronic diseases are associated with the practice of poor lifestyle habits, such as smoking, exposure to second-hand smoke, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle and bad nutrition.
Therefore, to answer the question “why do I get sick so often” it is important to review habits in the first instance. Living an unhealthy lifestyle can be the trigger for many illnesses. However, other causes should not be ruled out. Let’s see.
Anxiety
When anxiety levels increase, its clinical manifestations go beyond the emotional. Many patients experience digestive discomfort, such as nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting.
In fact, a study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology found that there is a relationship between gastrointestinal symptoms and anxiety and depression disorders.
Other symptoms that are linked to anxiety include:
- Excessive perspiration
- Difficulty breathing or feeling short of breath.
- Dizziness
- Tremors
- Incrise of cardiac frecuency
When to consult the doctor?
Feeling sick a lot with these symptoms should be reason enough to see your doctor. Once it is determined that it is due to anxiety, the professional may suggest a consultation with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Fortunately, both specific cases of anxiety and anxiety disorders can be addressed in many ways. Psychotherapy, accompanied by lifestyle changes, may be sufficient. In some cases, medications may be necessary.
Chronic stress
Stress is a natural reaction of the body to certain threats. However, when it occurs chronically, its impact on health and well-being is not good. Getting sick too often can be a sign of being under too much stress without the necessary control.
As detailed by research published in Future Science OA , stress affects immune system functions, disrupts the nervous system, and compromises heart health. Even when it gets out of control, it is associated with other ailments such as headaches and low back pain.
Among other things, other stress-related signs of illness include:
- Lack of energy or fatigue.
- Digestive problems, such as diarrhea, nausea, and cramps.
- Insomnia and difficulty sleeping.
- Frequent infections, such as the flu, colds, and urinary problems.
When to consult the doctor?
Both doctors and psychologists can help develop strategies to mitigate the effects of stress. It is important to request a consultation if there are symptoms that affect the quality of life. Treatment can focus on the underlying cause of the stress and the underlying disease itself. Therefore, it can include:
- Psychological therapy.
- Medicines.
- Changes in lifestyle.
Immune problems
Problems affecting the immune system may explain why many are constantly ill with the flu, colds, and infections. When defense mechanisms cannot respond well against pathogens, these diseases occur.
In fact, as research published in the Journal of Immunology Research explains , immune system disorders are also implicated in an increased risk of heart and metabolic diseases.
People with a weak immune system may experience:
- Frequent cold and flu pictures (with fever, congestion, breathing difficulties, general malaise, etc.).
- Bronchitis and asthma.
- Digestive problems, such as constipation or diarrhea
- Joint pain
- Food intolerances.
- Irritation, itching, and rash on the skin.
When to consult the doctor?
Consult whenever there are signs of a weak immune system. The doctor must know if the symptoms of illness occur often to begin to make a diagnosis. Depending on the clinical manifestations, some diagnostic tests or others will be done. This will also determine the treatment.
Anemia
Anemia is a disease that is caused by the low production of hemoglobin, a part of the red blood cells whose function is to facilitate the transport of oxygen to the blood. The consumption of some medications, iron and vitamin B12 deficiencies, pregnancy and some chronic diseases can be behind the anemia.
When it develops, it is normal to feel sick more often, as it increases the feeling of fatigue, breathing difficulties, concentration problems and dizziness. Even the skin begins to look paler and the dark circles are more noticeable.
When to consult the doctor?
At first, many ignore the symptoms of anemia because they think that it is something specific and temporary. However, before its first manifestations it is important to consult so as not to delay treatment. Depending on its cause, your doctor may suggest adjustments to your diet, supplements, or medications.
Are there other reasons for feeling sick too often?
At this point, we already have several possible causes for “why I get sick so often.” However, it is worth commenting that there are also other factors that can explain it. Dehydration, a nutrient-poor diet, and lack of sleep can also lead to illness.
Likewise, it is common to get sick from working in healthcare settings (clinics, hospitals, etc.), from not washing hands well, or from sharing the same environment as people with infectious diseases. Given this, it is important to ensure good hygiene and take strict safety measures.
