Allergies and the immune system

    Our approach to allergies and the immune system

    Allergies are a common chronic health condition, with symptoms that can range from mild to serious ─ even life-threatening.

    Allergic reactions begin in your immune system when a harmless substance such as dust, mold or pollen is encountered. If you are allergic to it, the immune system may overreact by producing antibodies that attack the allergen, causing wheezing, itching, a runny nose, and watery or itchy eyes.

    SIU Medicine can provide help for allergy sufferers. Our clinicians are trained to deliver allergy care with a range of medications, as well as natural treatments that can work alongside them. They can also share ideas on how to adjust your lifestyle to avoid triggers and how to allergy-proof your environment.

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