Immunodeficiency And Biologic Infusion Therapy Specialist
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West Houston Allergy & Asthma
Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology located in Katy, Richmond, & Houston, TX
If you’re experiencing frequent or recurring infections, you may have an immunodeficiency. The highly-skilled team at West Houston Allergy & Asthma, led by Pardeep Rihal, MD, offers personalized treatment for immune deficiencies. Get in touch at one of their locations in Katy, Richmond, and Houston, Texas, by calling or scheduling an immunodeficiency appointment online.
Immunodeficiency and Biologic Infusion Therapy Q & A
What is immunodeficiency?
An immunodeficiency develops when your body is unable to protect itself against infections and disease. Once this happens, it’s easier for your body to fall prey to viruses and bacterial infections.
Once exposed to the virus or bacteria, the immune system retains a memory of the substance, and when you’re exposed to the virus or bacteria again, you already have the antibodies to fight off the organism. However, in men and women with poorly functioning immune systems, it’s common to develop recurrent infections that don’t respond to antibiotics.
What are the different types of immunodeficiency?
Immunodeficiency disorders belong in either primary or secondary classifications. Primary immunodeficiency is either inherited or a sporadic genetic defect not found in the parents, but present in the child. Symptoms may develop at birth or occur as you grow up.
Secondary immunodeficiency disorder happens when you can’t fight cancer, infection, or drugs that affect your immune system. Both types of immunodeficiency disrupt the body’s ability to fight disease.
What are the symptoms of an immunodeficiency?
One of the most common symptoms of immunodeficiency is frequent and recurrent infections that don’t respond to antibiotics, including:
- Sinusitis
- Ear infections
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Meningitis
- Skin infections
- Inflammation of internal organs
- Blood disorders
- Digestive problems
- Delayed growth and development
- Autoimmune diseases
These symptoms mean you should get an evaluation right away.
How is an immunodeficiency diagnosed?
The first step is to meet with an immunology specialist to identify the immune deficiency. Dr. Rihal at West Houston Allergy & Asthma performs necessary tests to measure various components of your immune system to identify the exact problem.
Some of the criteria used to determine an immune disorder include blood tests to diagnose the amount of infection-fighting proteins in your blood. Also, since primary immunodeficiency is inherited, samples of amniotic fluid, blood, or cells help determine abnormalities.
How is an immunodeficiency treated?
Treating an immunodeficiency involves a combination of preventing and treating infections and boosting the immune system. While the approach varies by the immune problem, the typical treatment for immunodeficiencies include:
- Pain relievers: Ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medications
- Antibiotics: Longer course of antibiotics or hospitalization for IV antibiotic transfusions
- Biologic infusion therapy: Injecting antibody proteins through an IV or under the skin to boost your immune system.
West Houston Allergy & Asthma is the top choice for immunodeficiency treatment for the diverse communities in Katy, Richmond, and Houston, Texas. Call the office nearest to you today for a consultation or book your appointment online.
