Allergy and Immunology

What is Allergy & Immunology?

Allergy & Immunology is the medical specialty that provides diagnosis and treatment of asthma and other allergic diseases. Allergists have special training to help identify any factors that may trigger allergic diseases and help patients prevent or treat such conditions.

Hundreds of substances, called allergens, can trigger allergic reactions in patients. Some of the most common allergens include plant pollens, molds, household dust mites, animal dander, foods, and insect stings. Effectively controlling allergies requires a lot of skill and patience. Allergists develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient, which may include allergy testing, avoidance of certain allergens or reduced exposure to them, prescription medications, or immunotherapy (allergy shots). The goal of the treatment plan the allergist recommends is to allow the patient to live a normal life -- as free from allergy symptoms as possible.