What is a disease?

A disease is defined as "a disorder of structure or function in a human, animal, or plant, especially one that produces specific signs or symptoms or that affects a specific location". So a disease is a problem with one of your systems caused by and internal or external source and it produces symptoms.

Infectious vs. Non-Infectious

The main difference between Non-Infectious and Infectious disease is the fact that Non-Infectious diseases are not contagious. Infectious diseases are caused by pathogens, bacteria, or viruses.

Structures of the Immune System

One of the main organs within the Immune system is the white blood cell. It seeks out and destroys diseases. They are made within the bone marrow, the spleen, lymph nodes, and thymus. Eating fruits, vegetables, and grains and also lots of exercise will keep your bodies immune system in shape.

Influenza

Influenza is caused by the A, B and C viruses. The A and B viruses are seasonal and cause fever, chills, aching muscles, sweats, headaches, dry cough, fatigue and weakness, nasal congestion, and sore throat. The C virus is around all year and causes respiratory issues. Influenza primarily attacks your respiratory system. Tama Flu and fever fighters will help with the symptoms, a annual flu shot will also help your immune system avoid getting the flu.

Lupus

Lupus is caused by your immune system attacking your own healthy tissues. This can cause joint pain, severe muscle pain, and a rash under your eyes and across the bridge of your nose. Lupus mainly affects your musculoskeletal system, it can also attack other healthy tissues with in your body. Anti-inflammatory drugs will help with pain and swelling but usually will not cure the disease.

Citations

“Infectious vs. Non-Infectious Diseases.” Study.com, Study.com, study.com/academy/lesson/noninfectious-vs-infectious-diseases.html.

“Lupus.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 25 Oct. 2017, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lupus/symptoms-causes/syc-20365789.

“Influenza (Flu).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 8 Feb. 2019, www.cdc.gov/flu/consumer/symptoms.html

Zimmermann, Kim Ann. “Immune System: Diseases, Disorders & Function.” LiveScience, Purch, 17 Oct. 2018, www.livescience.com/26579-immune-system.html.