Symptom 8. Frequent Infections: ALCL’s Immune System Undermining
The immune system is our body’s defense mechanism, shielding us from infections and diseases. However, ALCL can compromise this protective shield, making one more susceptible to frequent infections. It’s not just about catching a cold more often; it’s about having infections that are more severe and prolonged.
In the backdrop of ALCL, the body’s resources are stretched thin, combating the malignancy. This leaves the immune system weakened, offering an open door for infections to take hold. These infections can be varied – from respiratory to gastrointestinal, each taking a toll on an already burdened system.
While everyone gets sick occasionally, ALCL-related immune suppression means longer recovery times. What might be a week-long cold for someone else can stretch on, with symptoms being more severe. This constant battle against infections can leave one feeling perpetually under the weather, adding to the overall fatigue and discomfort.
In a way, the frequency and severity of these infections are a testament to the strain ALCL places on the body. It’s a constant tug-of-war, with the body trying its best to fend off both the cancerous cells and the opportunistic infections that arise due to weakened defenses. (8)
