Immune System Disorders Specialist

What is the immune system?

Your immune system is your body’s defense against harmful invaders, such as infections and certain bacteria. Without your immune system, you’d constantly get sick from germs like viruses or bacteria.

Your immune system is comprised of special cells, tissues, and organs that work harmoniously to protect you. Your lymphatic system is a big part of your immune system. The network of lymph nodes and vessels carry a clear fluid called lymph that contains waste products, tissue fluid, and immune system cells. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped clusters of immune system cells and lymph vessels are thin tubes that spread like blood vessels throughout your body.

Your lymph nodes are connected by the lymphatic vessels, which contain white blood cells to trap bacteria, viruses, and other invaders, including cancer cells. White blood cells are your immune system cells that are made in one of your lymph organs, such as your thymus or spleen, and in your bone marrow.

What is an immune system disorder?

An immune system disorder is a term for a medical condition involving a malfunction or problem with your immune system.

You might have an immune system disorder if you’re born with a weak immune system (primary immune deficiency) or if you have an overactive immune system (common with allergic reactions).

Your immune system can be weakened by certain medications or by certain viral infections, such as HIV.

Some of the conditions caused by an overactive immune system include asthma, eczema, hay fever (allergic rhinitis), and food allergies.

With autoimmune diseases, your body attacks your normal, healthy tissues in a condition like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or type 1 diabetes.

How are immune system disorders treated?

At Allergy and Asthma Consultants, the providers treat immune system disorders in different ways. The diagnosis is typically made with blood tests, a review of medical history, and other testing.

To treat immune system disorders, your provider might suggest:

• Healthy lifestyle changes, such as a nutrient-dense diet and dietary changes
• Certain medications, such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or biologics
• Immunoglobulin therapy (IG)
• Immunotherapy
  
  

Rest assured that you’re in good hands with the qualified experts of Allergy and Asthma Consultants. Click the online scheduler or call the nearest office for an appointment today.