Experience Relief
Our practice offers expertise in the area of allergies and immunology. Our allergists utilize their knowledge, training and experience to determine what is causing the allergy and what is the best possible treatment for both our adult and pediatric patients.
What is an allergy?
Allergies are relatively common. Both genetics and environmental factors play a role. Allergy is caused by an oversensitive immune system, which leads to a misdirected immune response. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances, such as bacteria and viruses. It reacts to substances (allergens) that are generally harmless and in most people do not cause a problem. But in a person with allergies, the immune system is oversensitive. When it recognizes an allergen, it releases chemicals, such as histamines. This causes itching, swelling, mucus production, muscle spasms, hives, rashes, and other symptoms, which vary from person to person.
What is Asthma?
If you frequently experience shortness of breath or you hear a whistling or wheezy sound in your chest when you breathe, you may have asthma — a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, the passageways that allow air to enter and leave the lungs. If people with asthma are exposed to a substance to which they are sensitive or a situation that changes their regular breathing patterns, the symptoms can become more severe. Asthma symptoms affect an estimated 26 million Americans and are one of the leading causes of work and school absences.
If you suspect you may have allergies or asthma, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Please Note: Dr. Shiven Patel and Blair McAlister, NP, are only at the Easley location.