Can smoking affect the results of immune system tests?

Smoking significantly affects the results of immune system tests. Harmful substances in tobacco, such as nicotine and tar, can impair the function of immune cells and disrupt the balance of immune regulation, leading to abnormal test indicators that fail to accurately reflect the body's true immune status. If you are a long-term smoker with abnormal immunity test results, or experience recurrent infections or similar symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Smoking directly suppresses the activity of immune cells such as neutrophils and lymphocytes, reducing their ability to engulf pathogens and identify abnormal cells. This leads to decreased levels and functional indicators of immune cells, resulting in lower-than-actual immunity test results that may mask or exaggerate underlying immune issues.

Tobacco smoke can also trigger chronic inflammatory responses in the body, increasing levels of inflammatory factors and interfering with the accuracy of immune-related test measurements. Moreover, long-term smoking damages the mucosal barrier of the respiratory tract, indirectly exacerbating immune dysfunction and further compromising the objectivity of test results.

In daily life, it is important to quit smoking as early as possible and avoid secondhand smoke exposure to prevent ongoing tobacco-induced damage to immune function. Maintain regular sleep patterns and engage in moderate physical activity. Increase intake of foods rich in vitamins and protein, drink plenty of water to support metabolism, and create favorable conditions for immune system recovery.