Allergy, Asthma & Immunology – Flowood

For some people, allergies may only appear during certain seasons. Others may experience symptoms year-round due to indoor triggers like dust mites or pet dander.

In rare cases, allergies can trigger anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or throat, rapid heartbeat, dizziness or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Anyone experiencing these signs should seek emergency medical care immediately.

Allergy Testing

Diagnosing allergies begins with a thorough evaluation of your medical history and symptoms. Your allergy specialist will ask about the timing and severity of reactions, family history and possible environmental or dietary triggers.

Testing may include:

Skin prick tests: Small amounts of common allergens are applied to the skin to see if a reaction occurs.
Blood tests: Specific antibodies that indicate sensitivity to certain allergens are measured.
Elimination or challenge testing: Symptoms are identified by gradually removing or introducing suspected triggers.

Accurate diagnosis is essential for creating a personalized treatment plan that effectively manages symptoms and reduces the risk of severe reactions.

Allergy Treatment

Allergies can be managed effectively with the right approach. Treatment often begins with identifying specific triggers through testing and observation. Common strategies include:

Avoidance: Reducing exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust or pet dander whenever possible
Medications: Using antihistamines, nasal sprays or eye drops to relieve symptoms
Immunotherapy: Receiving allergy shots or sublingual drops that gradually retrain the immune system to reduce its overreaction
Personalized care plans: Working with an allergy specialist to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle

With proper treatment, many patients experience significant relief, improved quality of life and a reduced risk of severe reactions. Early evaluation and management are key to staying healthy and comfortable throughout the year.

Asthma Treatment

Asthma treatment focuses on controlling inflammation, preventing attacks and managing symptoms. Effective approaches include:

Medications: Controller inhalers reduce inflammation while rescue inhalers provide quick relief during an attack.
Trigger management: Identifying and avoiding triggers can significantly reduce flare-ups.
Lifestyle strategies: Keeping your home clean, monitoring air quality and staying active safely support overall lung health.
Regular check-ins: Routine visits with your asthma specialist help ensure your treatment plan is effective and can be adjusted as needed.

With proper care, people with asthma can live active, healthy lives and reduce the risk of attacks.

If you experience an asthma attack, it is important to act quickly and follow your asthma action plan. Steps to manage an attack include:

Use your rescue inhaler: Take the prescribed dose immediately to open your airways and relieve symptoms.
Stay calm and breathe slowly: Panic can make breathing more difficult, so try to take slow, steady breaths.
Sit upright: This position can make it easier to breathe than lying down.
Move away from triggers: If possible, leave the area where the attack started, such as a smoky room or dusty environment.
Seek emergency care if needed: Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if your symptoms do not improve after using your inhaler, or if you have severe shortness of breath, blue lips or fingernails, or difficulty speaking.

It is important to review your asthma action plan with your doctor so you know exactly what to do during an attack. Proper management can prevent complications and keep you safe.

Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma is a type of asthma triggered by exposure to allergens. Common allergens include pollen, dust, mold, pet dander and certain foods. When a person with allergic asthma encounters these triggers, their immune system reacts, causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways.

Symptoms of allergic asthma are similar to other forms of asthma and may include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath. In addition, people with allergic asthma may also experience allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose or itchy eyes.

Immune Deficiency

A properly functioning immune system has two critical jobs: defending the body against harmful invaders and avoiding reactions to harmless substances. When the immune system fails to respond to harmful agents, it results in an immune deficiency. People with immune deficiencies often experience recurrent or severe infections which can affect the sinuses, lungs, skin or other parts of the body.

Immune Deficiency Symptoms

Common signs of immune deficiencies include:

Frequent or unusually severe infections
Infections that are difficult to treat
Recurrent sinus or ear infections
Pneumonia or other lung infections
Persistent skin infections

Early recognition of these symptoms is important to prevent complications

Immune Deficiency Treatment

Treatment for immune deficiencies depends on the type and severity of the condition. Common approaches include:

Medications to prevent or treat infections: These can include antibiotics, antivirals or antifungals to help manage infections when they occur.
Immune system replacement therapies: Some patients may receive therapies such as immunoglobulin infusions to replace missing or deficient immune components.
Vaccinations and preventive care: Carefully selected vaccines may help protect against certain infections, while routine preventive care helps reduce health risks.
Lifestyle measures: Good hygiene, proper nutrition, regular exercise and avoiding exposure to infections can help reduce the likelihood of illness.
Monitoring and ongoing care: Regular checkups with an immunology specialist help track immune function and adjust treatment as needed.

With proper management, many people with immune deficiencies can lead healthier, more active lives and significantly reduce the impact of infections.

Why Choose Allergy, Asthma & Immunology – Flowood

Through comprehensive evaluations and diagnostic testing, we work to identify the cause of your asthma, allergies or immunodeficiency and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We recognize the importance of long-term management for these conditions and are committed to providing continuous support, education and guidance to help you manage your health effectively.

Call today to schedule your appointment.

(601) 414-6540

Allergy, Asthma & Immunology – Flowood