Low IgG: What It Means, Why It Matters, and What You Can Do

When your body has low IgG, a type of antibody that helps your immune system identify and neutralize pathogens like bacteria and viruses. Also known as IgG deficiency, it means your body isn't making enough of these crucial defense proteins to keep you protected. This isn’t just a lab result—it’s a real reason you might get sick more often, recover slower, or keep coming back with the same infections.

People with low IgG, a common form of primary immune deficiency often battle recurring sinus infections, ear infections, pneumonia, or bronchitis. It’s not about being "weak"—it’s about your immune system lacking the right tools. IgG antibodies, the most abundant type in your blood, make up about 75% of all antibodies. They’re the ones that remember past infections and help your body respond faster the next time. When levels drop below 500 mg/dL, your risk of serious infections rises. Some people have it from birth; others develop it after illnesses, medications, or aging.

Recurrent infections, a key sign of low IgG don’t always mean you’re exposed to more germs—they mean your body can’t fight them off effectively. That’s why some people get the flu every winter, while others don’t. It’s also why antibiotics might help temporarily, but never solve the root problem. Testing for IgG levels is simple—a blood draw—but it’s often overlooked. Many doctors assume frequent infections are just bad luck, not a sign of an underlying immune issue.

If you’ve had more than four ear infections in a year, two or more sinus infections, or needed multiple courses of antibiotics, it’s worth asking about IgG levels. It’s not just about counting infections—it’s about understanding if your body has the right defense system in place. Treatments like intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), a therapy that replaces missing antibodies can be life-changing for those with severe deficiency. But even mild cases benefit from lifestyle tweaks: better sleep, avoiding smoking, staying up to date on vaccines, and sometimes targeted supplements like vitamin D or zinc.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just theory. These are real stories and practical guides from people who’ve dealt with immune challenges—how to track symptoms, what tests to ask for, how to talk to your doctor, and what actually works when your body isn’t doing its job. You’ll see how low IgG connects to other conditions like chronic fatigue, autoimmune issues, and even reactions to common medications. No fluff. No jargon. Just clear, usable info from people who’ve been there.