Eosinophils

Why are Eosinophils important for your Healthspan?

‍Eosinophil levels can indicate the activity of your immune system, particularly in response to allergies, asthma, or parasitic infections, all of which are important for maintaining Healthspan. Persistently elevated eosinophils can point to ongoing allergic reactions or chronic inflammation that, if unmanaged, may contribute to tissue damage or impact respiratory and digestive health over time. Monitoring eosinophils helps in understanding immune responses and guides strategies to manage conditions that affect long-term well-being.

‍What are Eosinophils?

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell (leukocyte) and are classified as granulocytes due to the presence of granules within their cytoplasm. They are a component of the immune system, specifically involved in defending the body against parasitic infections, such as worms. Eosinophils also play a significant role in allergic reactions, including conditions like asthma, eczema, and hay fever. When the body encounters an allergen or parasite, eosinophils can be activated and migrate to the affected tissues, where they release chemicals that contribute to the inflammatory response. While essential for defense, excessive or prolonged eosinophil activity can also contribute to tissue damage in chronic inflammatory diseases.

‍How do we take action?

If eosinophil levels are found to be outside the typical range, especially when elevated, one should consult with a healthcare provider to investigate the underlying cause. Common reasons for elevated eosinophils include allergies, asthma, and parasitic infections. Less commonly, certain autoimmune disorders or rare blood conditions can be a factor. Strategies involve identifying and managing allergic triggers, treating any diagnosed parasitic infections, or addressing chronic inflammatory conditions. Reviewing medications and discussing potential lifestyle changes can also be beneficial in modulating immune responses and supporting overall Healthspan.

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Additional Sources

1. Fulkerson, P. C., & Rothenberg, M. E. (2013). Targeting eosinophils in allergy, inflammation and beyond. Nature reviews. Drug discovery, 12(2), 117–129. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrd3838

2. Wechsler, M. E., Munitz, A., Ackerman, S. J., Drake, M. G., Jackson, D. J., Wardlaw, A. J., Dougan, S. K., Berdnikovs, S., Schleich, F., Matucci, A., Chanez, P., Prazma, C. M., Howarth, P., Weller, P. F., & Merkel, P. A. (2021). Eosinophils in Health and Disease: A State-of-the-Art Review. Mayo Clinic proceedings, 96(10), 2694–2707. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2021.04.025

3. Klion, A. D., Ackerman, S. J., & Bochner, B. S. (2020). Contributions of Eosinophils to Human Health and Disease. Annual review of pathology, 15, 179–209. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-pathmechdis-012419-032756

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