Division of Allergy & Inflammation
The Division of Allergy and Inflammation, part of the Department of Medicine, offers exceptional patient care, research programs, and education and training opportunities.
Allergy & Inflammation Care
Expert care for allergies and conditions that affect your quality of life
Dedicated Care for Allergic Conditions
More than 50 million people in the United States suffer from allergies, asthma and related conditions. An allergy is an adverse reaction, caused by a patient’s own immune system, to a substance that would generally be considered harmless. If symptoms occur in the nose or sinuses, this is called allergic rhinitis or hay fever. Symptoms in the lungs or bronchial tubes are called asthma. Skin symptoms are referred to as hives or urticaria.
When you are struggling with allergies, receiving care from a dedicated specialist can provide you with relief and ease your symptoms. The experts in the Division of Allergy and Inflammation at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) can help diagnose and treat allergies to help you feel better. Patients are evaluated through detailed histories, physical examinations and, if applicable, breathing and allergy skin and/or blood tests.
Conditions We Treat
The allergy experts at BIDMC can treat a range of allergy and immune system conditions:
- Anaphylaxis
- Drug allergies
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- Environmental allergies (pollen, dust, mold, animals)
- Eosinophilia
- Food allergies
- Hives (urticaria)
- Immune system disorders/recurrent infections
- Insect (venom) allergy
- Sinusitis
- Swelling (angioedema)
More About Allergy Care
What Causes an Allergic Reaction
Your immune system protects you from bacteria, infection and viruses. An allergic reaction occurs when your immune system overreacts to a substance called an allergen. An allergen can be inhaled, swallowed or touched by the skin. An allergic reaction can range from mild to life-threatening.
Allergens are found in a variety of things you commonly come into contact with:
- Environmental substances such as pollen, animal dander and dust
- Foods
- Insect venom from yellow jacket, honeybee, paper wasp and hornet stings
- Indoor and outdoor mold spores
- Medications
- Products that contain latex
Signs of an Allergic Reaction
The signs and severity of an allergic reaction can vary significantly. Here are some signs of an allergic reaction:
- Breathing problems
- Hives
- Itchy eyes
- Itchy nose
- Nasal congestion and runny nose
- Rashes
- Tearing
When To Call 911
Call 911 or seek emergency care if you have symptoms of anaphylaxis or severe allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing.
Allergy Testing
Allergies are diagnosed by your doctor through a physical exam, family and symptom history, and/or allergy tests. Allergy tests are done to help identify if you are allergic and what you are allergic to. Once allergies are identified, specific avoidance and treatment options can be recommended.
Comprehensive Allergy Treatment
In almost all cases, medication can treat allergies. Medications help correct your immune system from reacting to allergens. Common medication options include:
- Allergy shots, which help prevent or reduce your body’s response to allergens.
- Anticholinergics, which block chemicals to regulate parts of the body.
- Antihistamines, which relieve symptoms of allergic reactions.
- Decongestants, which help reduce congestion.
- Leukotiene inhibitors, which block certain chemicals in the body to prevent breathing problems.
- Mast-cell stabilizers, which prevent certain cells from causing an allergic reaction.
- Mucolytics, which help break up mucus in the lungs.
- Nasal steroids, which reduce inflammation in the nose.
- Sublingual therapy, which are drops placed under the tongue.
Identifying allergy triggers and making lifestyle changes can reduce your risk for allergies. Over-the-counter and prescription medication can also help you manage your allergies.
In rare cases, we may recommend surgery to fix issues with your nose and sinuses. You’ll work with our ENT or plastic surgery team if your doctor decides surgery is needed.
Specialized Treatment for Eosinophilic Disorders
Eosinophilic disorders occur when eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, are found in above-normal amounts in various parts of the body. BIDMC provides specialized testing and treatment for eosinophilic disorders.
Meet the Team
The specialists in the Division of Allergy and Inflammation provide care for a wide range of allergy and immune system conditions.
Additional Services
Your allergy care team coordinates your care with other specialty providers throughout our medical center. This ensures you receive comprehensive, streamlined care.
