Dr. Mabry Provides Guidance on Living with Allergies and Asthma
Allergies and asthma affect millions of people, often disrupting daily life with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to serious breathing difficulties and other concerns. At Hattiesburg Clinic Allergy, Asthma & Immunology – Flowood, Taylor J. Mabry, MD, helps patients better understand what is happening inside their bodies and how to manage these conditions effectively.
“Allergies begin when the immune system, which is designed to protect us, mistakes something harmless for something harmful,” Dr. Mabry explained. “Instead of ignoring the substance, like pollen, pet dander or certain foods, the body reacts as if it is fighting an infection. That immune response releases chemicals that cause inflammation leading to symptoms such as sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes.”
The immune system has two main jobs: recognizing harmful invaders and avoiding unnecessary reactions to safe substances. When either of these jobs fail, an allergic reaction develops. In some cases, the immune system’s overreaction can even contribute to autoimmune conditions in which the body attacks its own tissues.
Mabry also works with patients who experience asthma, a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs. “During an asthma attack, the muscles around the airways tighten and the lining of the airways becomes swollen and inflamed,” he said. “This narrowing makes it harder to breathe and can cause coughing, wheezing or chest tightness.”
Common triggers include viral infections, pollen, exercise and weather changes. Mabry encourages patients to stay active while learning what their triggers are and how to manage them. “Asthma should not keep you from exercising or doing what you enjoy,” he said. “With proper management, most people can maintain normal activity levels.”
Knowing when to seek help is key. “If asthma symptoms interfere with sleep, limit your activity or are not well controlled by your current medication, it is important to see a specialist,” Mabry cautioned. “We can help identify the cause and develop a plan that keeps symptoms under control.”
Mabry draws on his experience and training to guide patients struggling with allergies and asthma. He earned his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in Jackson, Miss., and completed his internal medicine residency and fellowship in allergy and immunology at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.
At Hattiesburg Clinic Allergy, Asthma & Immunology – Flowood, Mabry and his team provide care for both children and adults, helping patients better understand their conditions and regain control of their health.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call (601) 414-6540 or visit www.hattiesburgclinic.com/allergyflowood.
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About Hattiesburg Clinic Allergy, Asthma & Immunology – Flowood:
At Hattiesburg Clinic Allergy, Asthma & Immunology – Flowood, we provide specialized care through testing and treatment for allergies, asthma and immune deficiencies in both pediatric and adult patients. We have extensive training and expertise in caring for patients with a variety of needs, including administering allergy shots, managing asthma, treating eczema and addressing food and environmental allergies.
About Hattiesburg Clinic:
Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. Founded in 1963, Hattiesburg Clinic has expanded to include over 450 physicians and providers, along with 2,500 employees, serving patients across more than 17 counties in Mississippi. Hattiesburg Clinic is committed to being the health care provider of choice in the communities we serve.
