Allergies don’t start because of an infection, but they can lead to one. The providers at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology of the Rockies, P.C., in Avon, Basalt, Aspen, Frisco, and Glenwood Springs, Colorado, are experts in diagnosing and treating allergies. They’re also board-certified immunologists who specialize in treatments for immunodeficiency disorders and the infections they can cause. If you’re experiencing infections related to your allergies or require specialized care for an immune deficiency disorder, schedule an appointment today with these trusted and highly acclaimed physicians.
The swelling, irritation, and excess mucus production that accompany many allergic reactions can lead to infections that may affect your sinuses, respiratory system, and even your ears. Inflammation caused by an allergic response, for instance, can prevent nasal passages from draining. This often leads to a buildup of bacteria in the sinus cavities. As these bacteria thrive and multiply, you may develop an infection of your sinuses.
Frequent middle ear infections, especially in children but also adults, are often linked to untreated allergies. As congestion and inflammation caused by allergies build in your sinuses and nasal passages, the eustachian tube that connects your middle ear to your upper pharynx (nasopharynx) can also fill with debris, thick mucus, and infection-causing bacteria.
The physicians at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology of the Rockies will treat the infection, often with antibiotics, and develop an allergy care strategy that keeps your allergies from fueling future infections. This may include allergy testing to correctly identify triggers, oral medications, or immunotherapy to train your immune system to ignore the allergens that cause it to overreact.
Immunodeficiency disorders are caused by a weakened immune system that lacks the ability to fight against infections and other health problems. Immunodeficiency disorders can be primary (those you are born with) or secondary (those you acquire).
Medical conditions, such as diabetes, can create deficiencies in your immune system. Chemotherapy, severe burns, and malnutrition can also affect the health of your immune system. AIDS, leukemia, and multiple myeloma (a blood cancer that affects plasma cells) are examples of diseases that result in acquired immunodeficiency.
Other immunodeficiencies can be genetically acquired and can present with symptoms early in childhood.
Symptoms can range from relatively mild with few issues to severe, which may lead to life-threatening illnesses due to your body’s inability to fight off germs. The most common sign of an immunodeficiency disorder is developing more frequent and longer-lasting infections than individuals with a healthy immune system.
Treatments for immunodeficiency are complex and multifaceted. Effective strategies include preventing and treating infections, boosting your immune system, and correcting the underlying cause of the immune problem whenever possible. The specialists at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology of the Rockies are well-equipped for the task.
If you’re having problems with allergy-related infections or an immunodeficiency disorder, schedule your visit today.
