Immunology
Midwest Allergy Sinus Asthma, SC
If you struggle with mysterious chronic infections and illnesses, you may be suffering from a malfunctioning immune system. To pinpoint the root of your issue and begin working towards a solution, book an immunology appointment at Midwest Allergy Sinus Asthma, SC, located in Normal and Springfield, Illinois. The gifted and passionate practice wants to help you recover your health. To learn more, book your appointment online or over the phone today.
Immunology Q & A
What is immunology?
Immunology is a field of medicine focused on the immune system, which defends the body against attack by infections, viruses, and the like.
When your immune function becomes unbalanced, it can’t work at its full capacity, and you become vulnerable to unusual bacteria, unusual infections, and problems like:
Immunodeficiency disorders
Immunodeficiency disorders impede your immune system from properly defending your body because it can’t produce enough antibodies. This leads to recurrent infections and to complications that can be debilitating or even fatal.
Common specific immunodeficiencies include low IGG and IGA deficiency.
Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID)
This is an example of an inherited immunodeficiency present at birth.
Autoimmune diseases
These diseases cause the immune system to attack the body, instead of protecting it. There are countless varieties of autoimmune diseases, including Type 1 diabetes, Crohn’s disease, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Lupus and multiple sclerosis both develop as a result of an IGA deficiency. IGA is a protein that helps fight infection.
Allergies
Allergies occur when a hypersensitive immune system overreacts to harmless substances, like tree nuts. Believing such substances to be dangerous, the immune system then releases chemicals, including histamine, that cause allergy symptoms.
PANDAS/PANS
PANDAS is an acronym for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections. It refers to a small group of children who have worsening obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or tic disorder symptoms after contracting strep throat.
PANS, or Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, refers broadly to acute cases of OCD that develop in children.
Immunologists study the immune system and seek to treat autoimmune conditions by restoring immune system balance.
How do doctors treat autoimmune diseases?
Depending on what your disease or disorder is, your Midwest Allergy Sinus Asthma provider treats your autoimmune condition using:
- Prophylactic antibiotics to prevent multiple infections
- Antibody infusions (IVIG therapy, SCIG therapy) to help fight infections and counteract specific antibody deficiencies
Over time, some treatments can create drug-resistant infections in people with compromised immune systems. Fortunately, the practice at Midwest Allergy Sinus Asthma is experienced and adaptive.
Are you struggling to control an autoimmune condition, or do you suspect you have one? If so, book an appointment online or over the phone with Midwest Allergy Sinus Asthma today.