The immune system is your body's natural defense mechanism—but when it becomes overactive, underactive, or misdirected, it can lead to a variety of chronic conditions. The immune system works to protect the body against harmful invaders such as bacteria and viruses. Immune system disorders can occur when the body's immune response is abnormal. At MediDental Care, we specialize in the early detection and ongoing management of immune system disorders. As a trusted provider of primary care in Astoria, our focus is on comprehensive, personalized treatment plans that improve your quality of life and help prevent complications.
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease or are experiencing unexplained symptoms, our team is here to help you take control of your health.
Immune system disorders occur when your body’s immune response is abnormal. Immunity is the body's ability to recognize and defend against harmful substances. These conditions fall into three main categories:
There are so many different types of immune system disorders, each with unique symptoms and causes.
When the immune system is too weak, infections and diseases can happen more easily. If it is too strong or attacks the body, autoimmune diseases or allergies can happen.
Symptoms vary widely depending on the specific disorder and can sometimes be severe.
Early diagnosis and targeted treatment can help minimize flare-ups and long-term damage.
An overactive immune system can cause the body to mistakenly attack its own healthy cells and tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and a wide range of health problems. This process is at the heart of many autoimmune diseases, where immune system cells identify normal, healthy tissue as harmful substances and launch an attack. As a result, inflammation develops in affected areas, which can damage joints, organs, blood vessels, and other tissues throughout the body.
Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis are prime examples of conditions where the immune system attacks healthy tissue. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system targets the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Systemic lupus erythematosus can affect the skin, kidneys, blood cells, and other organs, while multiple sclerosis involves immune system attacks on the protective covering of nerve cells, leading to muscle weakness and trouble with coordination.
Inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis, is another autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the lining of the digestive tract, resulting in symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. In Graves’ disease, the immune system targets the thyroid gland, causing it to produce too much thyroid hormone. This can lead to symptoms such as bulging eyes, trouble breathing, and rapid weight loss.
The causes of an overactive immune system are complex and can involve certain genes, environmental triggers, infections, toxins, and even some medicines. Research from the National Institute of Health and other national institutes has shown that people with a family history of autoimmune disorders may have a higher risk of developing these conditions. Environmental factors, such as exposure to viruses or chemicals, can also act as triggers.
Symptoms of autoimmune diseases can vary widely but often include swelling, joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, and digestive issues. Because these symptoms overlap with many other conditions, healthcare providers rely on a combination of blood tests (to detect antibodies and inflammation), imaging studies, and a thorough review of your health history to make an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment for autoimmune diseases typically focuses on reducing inflammation and suppressing the overactive immune response. Medicines such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, biologics, and JAK inhibitors are commonly used to target specific immune system cells and minimize tissue damage. In addition, physical therapy, regular exercise, and stress management can help improve mobility and overall well-being.
While there is currently no cure for most autoimmune diseases, many people are able to manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life with the right combination of treatments and support. Working closely with your healthcare provider is essential to developing a personalized care plan that addresses your unique needs and helps you stay as healthy as possible.
Many immune disorders are complex and require consistent monitoring, multidisciplinary care, and individualized treatment. Primary care serves as the foundation for that support. Doctors play a key role in diagnosing and managing immune system disorders, including identifying symptoms, ordering appropriate tests, and developing treatment plans.
Our primary care team in Astoria takes a whole-body approach to immune system dysfunction. Immune system disorders can affect specific organs and organ function, sometimes leading to muscle weakness or other muscle-related symptoms. We help you navigate diagnosis, treatment, and long-term health management.
Medicine is a key part of managing immune disorders, as it can help control symptoms and prevent complications.
Depending on the condition, treatment may include:
Symptoms can become worse during flare-ups or if not properly managed, so ongoing monitoring and adjustment of medicine and other treatments are important.
Immune health is deeply connected to lifestyle. Making healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of getting sick by supporting immune function. Our care team works with you to build habits that support long-term wellness.
These are some of the most common autoimmune diseases managed at the clinic. These common autoimmune diseases include a range of conditions where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, leading to diverse symptoms and requiring different treatments.
We’re proud to support patients in our community with compassionate, informed primary care in Astoria that treats the whole person. For those interested in oral health, you can view educational dental videos about the dental services available in Astoria.
If you’re living with an immune system disorder or experiencing unexplained symptoms, the team at MediDental Care is here to help.
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Autoimmune disorders often have genetic and environmental triggers, such as infections or stress, that cause the immune system to attack healthy tissue. Genetics can increase the risk of developing autoimmune disorders, as certain genes may predispose individuals to these conditions. For example, in type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks the pancreas, impairing its ability to produce insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood sugar levels.
There are currently no definitive cures for most autoimmune diseases. However, symptoms can be managed effectively with the right combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring.
Diagnosis typically includes a physical exam, a detailed symptom history, and lab tests like autoimmune panels or immune function testing.
In many cases, yes. Your primary care doctor at MediDental Care can coordinate with rheumatologists, immunologists, or allergists as needed.
Diet can influence inflammation and immune response. We may recommend anti-inflammatory or elimination diets depending on your diagnosis.
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2246 31st St, Astoria, NY 11105