Understanding Immune System Response to the Common Cold
What is the Immune System?The immune system is the body's natural defense mechanism against foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses that cause illness and infections. When the immune system detects these foreign invaders, it produces certain antibodies to fight them off and prevent illness. What's the Difference between Bacterial and Viral Infections?Bacterial infections are caused by bacteria, while viral infections are caused by viruses. Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can reproduce on their own, while viruses need to invade another living cell to reproduce. How Do Viruses Attack the Immune System?Viruses are able to take advantage of the body's natural defenses by entering into the cells and fooling the immune system. Once inside, the virus can hijack the cell's energy and use it to replicate and spread to other cells in the body, wreaking havoc on the immune system. What is the Common Cold and How Does the Immune System Respond?The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory system that is caused by the rhinovirus. The virus enters the body through the nose, throat, or eyes and then multiplies quickly. Once the virus enters, the body immediately notices and the immune system begins to respond.Identification and ResponseThe immune system is designed to quickly identify and respond to any foreign invaders. In order to do this, it produces antibodies called immunoglobulins which attach to the antigens on the surfaces of the virus. Once this binding takes place, the antigen is flagged and the body is able to produce more immunoglobulin specific to the virus. This is how the body develops immunity to the virus. Attack and Symptom ReductionOnce identified, the body responds by using secretory IgA antibodies to attack the virus by neutralizing it directly or by preventing it from attaching to the cells. The immune system then has to work to clear the virus out of the body, which is why it is important to rest and reduce activity while sick with the common cold. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids to help the body flush out the virus. Long-Term ImmunityWhen the virus is cleared, the immune system then stores information about the virus so that it can use it to protect the body from future infections. This allows the body to develop immunity to a virus, making it easier to fight off the virus if it is encountered in the future. ConclusionUnderstanding the immune system response to the common cold is important for helping to prevent and treat the virus. The immune system quickly identifies and responds to the virus by producing antibodies to attack it, reducing symptoms, and creating immunity for future infections.