In our previous blog, we discussed primary immunodeficiency diseases (PI) and how people with weakened immune systems often experience more frequent and severe infections than people with normal immune systems. Primary immunodeficiency disorders are a genetic condition, and they run in families.
Unlike PI, secondary immune deficiency diseases are not hereditary. You are not born with a secondary immune deficiency disease. Instead, these diseases are acquired as a result of the body’s immune system being compromised by some external factor. Common examples of factors that can weaken the immune system include:
- Viruses, such as HIV
- Trauma or major surgery
- Lymphoreticular malignancy
- Chemotherapy
- Severe burns
- Malnutrition
Because the body’s immune system protect us from infections, the number one warning sign that you might have an immune deficiency disease is an increased susceptibility to infections. Do you get infections more often than other people? Are they more severe and slower to clear up, if they fully clear up at all? If so, you might want to consider an immune deficiency evaluation with our board certified specialists at the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia.
Our team of specialists have received extensive training in the field of immunology, and can conduct a number of tests to help you determine the underlying cause of your recurrent infections. Unlike primary immunodeficiency diseases, where patients may not know the underlying cause of an immunodeficiency, people with secondary immune deficiency diseases can discuss any medical conditions or important details of their medical history with our specialists, such as having gone through chemotherapy, to aid in diagnosing an immune deficiency.
In addition to providing immune deficiency evaluations, our specialists also draw from their experience to help patients develop customize treatment plans that help prevent and fight off infections, boost the body’s immune system, and treat the underlying cause of the weakened immune system. Our goal is to help patients with immune deficiency diseases manage their condition in order to live healthier and happier lives.
Contact Us to Learn More!
If you or someone you love is struggling with recurrent and severe infections, our team of board certified specialists is available to help you get started on the path to identifying the underlying cause of your chronic infections and treating any immunodeficiency disease. The Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia has helped numerous patients throughout the greater Atlanta Metro area regain control of their conditions and live full and productive lives.
For your convenience, we have 9 office locations around the region, and offer same day appointments. Contact us today for more information about our immune deficiency evaluations or treatment plans.