Allergy & Immunology
Your body relies on the immune system to keep your health in balance and protect you from disease. Sometimes, substances in your environment may trigger unexpected reactions and contribute to autoimmune diseases, inflammatory conditions like allergies and certain types of cancer.
Expert Care
When you experience discomfort from allergies or respond to a substance in an unusual way, reach out to the allergy and immunology specialists at North Mississippi Medical Center.
You’ll get help from board-certified physicians for an accurate evaluation and diagnosis of a wide range of allergic conditions or immunologic diseases, including:
- Allergies – Sneezing, itching, swelling, rashes or other symptoms caused by your immune system reacting to a substance in the environment such as pet dander, pollen, insect stings, certain foods or medications
- Asthma – Chronically inflamed airways that cause recurring periods of wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness
- Hives (urticaria) – Red, itchy, swollen areas of skin; may result from an allergic reaction, viral infections, extreme temperatures, sun, water or exercise
- Immunodeficiency disorders – Diminished capacity of the immune system to respond effectively to a variety of infectious agents, whether inherited or acquired, leaving you more susceptible to illness
- Sneezing, wheezing and a congested or runny nose – these are some of the irritating symptoms you may have with allergies or a sinus infection.
When you experience these, it means your immune system doesn't like something in the environment. Pollen, dust, pet fur... whatever the cause may be, your symptoms can make it difficult to get through the day.
Mild seasonal allergies often can be treated with over-the-counter medication. But for other allergies, you may need to see your health care provider. He or she will be able to recommend a prescription drug that will reduce or get rid of your problems.
What We Treat
For allergies and sinus infections that are more serious, consult with one of our allergy specialists. Our allergists have advanced training in diagnosing, treating and managing most stubborn allergies and sinus infections.
We treat conditions from the most common to the most severe, including:
- Food allergies
- Asthma
- Eczema
- Rhinitis
- Anaphylaxis
Treatments & Services
- Allergy testing – Places a very small amount of an allergen into your skin to test for environmental, food and stinging insect allergies
- Allergy medications – Pills (antihistamines, decongestants) or sprays that block or treat many common allergy symptoms; may help keep a consistent level of antihistamine in your system between shots
- Allergy shots – Decreases symptoms of allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma and stinging insect allergies
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy – Replaces antibodies through infusion therapy to help your body protect itself from bacteria, viruses and other infectious agents; used to treat immunodeficiency disorders
Depending on your allergy or breathing condition, your doctor may recommend additional attention from ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists at NMMC.