Studies with human subjects indicate that exposure to stressors is related to immunologic change.

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Feedback: Early symptoms of central nervous system impairment are similar to those of depression and include forgetfulness, inability to concentrate, psychomotor retardation, decreased alertness, apathy, withdrawal, diminished interest in work, and loss of sexual desire. In more advanced stages, patients may experience confusion, disorientation, seizures, profound dementia, and coma. A common symptom for women with AIDS is gynecologic infection. Interventions that reduce depression are, thus, useful in the fight against AIDS. Coping skills training and the practice of meditation may also improve adjustment to the disease. Stress and its neuroendocrine consequences foster a more rapid course of illness in people who are infected with HIV and lead to more opportunistic or more aggressive symptoms. Social support is very important to people with HIV infection or AIDS. Social support has been tied to greater adherence and lower viral load. Support from family appears to be especially important for preventing depression. Optimism, active coping, extraversion, conscientiousness, and spirituality all predict slower disease progression.

How does stress affect the immunological system?

When we're stressed, the immune system's ability to fight off antigens is reduced. That is why we are more susceptible to infections. The stress hormone corticosteroid can suppress the effectiveness of the immune system (e.g. lowers the number of lymphocytes).

What is the study of psychoneuroimmunology?

Psychoneuroimmunology is the study of interactions between the immune and central nervous systems, and particularly how these interactions contribute to psychiatric function and health.
In addition, stress decreases the body's lymphocytes — the white blood cells that help fight off infection. The lower your lymphocyte level, the more at risk you are for viruses, including the common cold and cold sores.

Is the field that studies how psychological factors such as stress influence the immune system and immune functioning?

Psychoneuroimmunology is the field that studies how psychological factors such as stress influence the immune system and immune functioning.