What can exacerbate opportunistic diseases in individuals?

Opportunistic diseases often arise when the immune system is compromised, allowing infections and diseases that typically do not affect healthy individuals to take hold. Stress can play a significant role in exacerbating these diseases by impacting the body's immune response. Prolonged stress can lead to a state of chronic inflammation and a weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses that opportunistic pathogens can exploit.

Moreover, when individuals experience high levels of stress, it can lead to neglecting health self-care, reducing adherence to medical regimens, and limiting engagement with supportive social networks. This further compounds the risk of opportunistic infections or complications. Therefore, stress and weakened immune systems create a conducive environment for these diseases to thrive.