Immunodeficiency

What is immunodeficiency?

Immunodeficiency is the disrupted ability to protect yourself from illness, often because of issues with parts of your immune system, such as your bone marrow or lymph nodes. You need your immune system to process and release lymphocytes, or white blood cells.

An immunodeficiency disorder prevents your internal systems from working properly and effectively combating diseases or infections, making you much more likely to get sick.

What causes immunodeficiency?

Immunodeficiency can be acquired, or it might be something you’re born with, although this is less common. An inherited condition is called primary immunodeficiency, while secondary immunodeficiency disorders may result from:

• Long-term hospitalization
• Some drugs
• Chronic conditions (such as cancer or diabetes)
• Poor nutrition

Although rare, some individuals also develop immunodeficiency due to radiation therapy.

What are the symptoms of immunodeficiency?

Because your body deals with myriad threats and everyone is different, there are many unique warning signs for this disorder. However, a few symptoms are more standard, such as chronic abdominal pain and gradual unintentional weight loss. You may also notice that you frequently get:

• Colds
• Pneumonia
• Pink eye
• Gingivitis (chronic gum disease)
• Sinus infections
• Yeast infections
• Thrush

If you have hard-to-shake infections, including viral infections, talk to the Asthma, Allergy, & Immunology Center team about getting tested for immunodeficiency.

How is immunodeficiency treated?

If the Asthma, Allergy, & Immunology Center team determines that you need treatment, your personalized care plan will typically include:

• Strengthening your immune system
• Preventing infection as much as possible
• Promptly and effectively treating infections as they arise

Your treatment may include medications, antiviral drugs, or immunoglobulin replacement therapy. In severe cases, your provider may explore bone marrow transplant (BMT) or gene therapy as a good treatment option.

The team can also help you adapt your lifestyle and implement tools to better handle the challenges associated with immunodeficiency disorders. It’s easy to become isolated or feel like you can’t fully engage with your life anymore, but with proper care and support, you can safely maximize your quality of life.

To learn more about immunodeficiency and schedule an appointment with a caring team, contact the nearest Asthma, Allergy, & Immunology Center by phone or through the website today.