What Are Immunologists?

Have you wondered what immunologists are and do? Immunology involves studying the immune system and its process of protecting the body from various infections and viruses. The immune system provides essential defensive capabilities. An active immune system functions automatically and eliminates any external element that is a threat to the body. If your immune system doesn’t work properly, you are prone to various diseases. Scientists and immunologists research how our body mechanisms protect us from new diseases and how you can improve your immune system.

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What do Immunologists do?

Immunologists help diagnose and treat allergies and other diseases related to the immune system. When your immune system overreacts or doesn’t work properly, an immunologist can help you maintain the system.

If you are suffering from allergies, you need to consider visiting and consulting an immunologist. Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to substances that are not harmful, thinking that they’re a threat.

What is an Immune System

The immune system provides protection from various pathogens and harmful substances that can cause a disease or allergy. Some of the most common pathogens that the immune system provides protection against include viruses and bacteria, which can cause infections. The immune system involves cellular and molecular activities. Your body contains two types of immunity. The first is innate immunity, which is the first line of defense, and adaptive immunity, which is the second line of defense.

Conditions that Immunologist can Treat

Below, you will find some conditions related to the immune system that Immunologist can treat:

1.    Allergic Rhinitis

In this condition, you may experience an allergic reaction affecting your airways and nose. Allergic Rhinitis will cause inflammation to the regions of your body that are part of the breathing process. Another name for this condition is hay fever, which is a common condition. The symptoms of this condition also include sneezing, itchy or stuffy nose, etc. This occurs when your body overreacts to an allergen.

2.    Allergic Conjunctivitis

When you are in contact with allergens in this condition, you will experience inflammation around your eyes. You will feel itching, redness, tearing, and swelling of the eyes. Another name for the condition is a pink eye, and it is the result of a bacteria or a virus.

3.    Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition and can be fatal. In this condition, you may find it difficult to breathe. In this condition, your airway swells and produces excessive amounts of mucus. The narrow airways lead to impossible or difficulty in breathing. You will also experience a whistling sound, triggering cough and tightness of the chest.

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4.    Anaphylaxis

This is another condition related to a breathing disorder. This condition is also fatal, and other symptoms include vomiting and low blood pressure. Stings from various insects, foods, latex, and medications can cause Anaphylaxis. Many people are also allergic to peanut butter and berries. After encountering these allergens, your immune system will release large amounts of chemicals that lead to a shock. To minimize the symptoms, doctors prescribe Injectable epinephrine to people with allergies. Whenever they encounter the allergen, they use the epi-pen to avoid symptoms.

5.    Atopic Dermatitis

With this allergic reaction, you may experience itchy and red skin with rashes. Sometimes, this condition can lead to hay fever or asthma. Moreover, medical professionals and researchers have yet to develop a cure for this condition. This eczema-type condition usually affects children, and its triggers include food and environmental conditions. This is a chronic condition, and the reaction can grow worse over time. Other symptoms of atopic dermatitis are sweating, a rise in body temperature, stress, and irritation. Various treatments and avoiding allergic substances can lower the risk of developing such a condition.

6.    Urticaria

People also know this allergic condition as hives. This occurs when your body comes into contact with medication or food allergens. Your skin will turn red and itchy. You may also develop welts through various environmental allergens. Chronic urticarial will remain for around six weeks.

7.    Eosinophilic Esophagitis

This is a chronic disorder of the immune system. In this condition, white blood cells build up in your food pipe or esophagus, causing tissue damage and chronic inflammation.

Immunologists: Conclusion

An immunologist can treat, manage, and diagnose all the above-mentioned conditions. Besides, they can help with your allergic reactions and other immunodeficiency conditions as well. Immunologists also develop new treatments and tests to help your immune system work normally by combining their academic research and clinical experience. They are also involved in research and analysis other than treating conditions related to the immune system.

If you are suffering from an immune system related condition, or are experiencing any of the symptoms of the above-mentioned conditions, visit our clinic.

Allergy specialist Dr. Boyan Hadjiev will diagnose your condition and devise a treatment plan. His extensive experience and understanding of the field allows him to offer the best suited treatments.

Contact us at 212-319-5282 or fill out a contact form.

 

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Sources

https://www.immunology.org/public-information/what-is-immunology
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-an-immunologist