Hattiesburg Clinic’s allergy, asthma and immunology providers offer specialized care through testing and treatment of allergies and asthma in pediatric and adult patients. Our providers have training and special practice interests in allergic rhinitis (nasal allergies), pediatric asthma, food allergies and eczema.
Allergies affect millions of people worldwide. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance — such as pollen, bee venom, pet dander or a particular food — that does not cause a reaction in most people. When the immune system recognizes these allergens as a threat, it triggers a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe reactions. Allergies can develop at any age and may be influenced by genetics or environmental exposures.
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology lists a number of different allergens that are responsible for allergic reactions. Some of the most common include:
Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the airways in the lungs. These airways, also called bronchial tubes, allow air in and out of the lungs.
When you have asthma, your airways are always inflamed. Certain triggers can cause the airways to become more swollen and the muscles around these airways can tighten. As a result, it can become difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs, causing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and/or chest tightness.
If you have a family history of allergies or asthma, you are more prone to developing asthma. Asthma is also common in people who have allergies. This is known as allergic asthma. Millions of children live with asthma, and the majority of them develop it before the age of five. Although there is no cure for asthma, a proper diagnosis and treatment plan can help you manage your condition and improve your symptoms.
