Allergy & Immunology

Allergy and Immunology at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham

When you’re struggling with allergies, you want immediate care. At BID Needham, our allergy and immunology experts provide all the care you need for allergies. This includes medical, diagnostic and surgical care.

We also work with our ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists to help you find relief from allergies.

Care for All Types of Allergies 

Allergies occur when your immune system reacts strongly to different substances. This includes substances you breathe, eat or touch. Allergies often cause the following symptoms:

• Breathing problems
• Hives
• Itchy eyes
• Itchy nose
• Nasal congestion and runny nose
• Rashes
• Tearing 

Comprehensive Treatment for Allergies

In almost all cases, medication can treat allergies. These medications help correct your immune system from reacting to substances you come into contact with. These 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. 

In rare cases, we may recommend surgery to fix problems with your nose and sinuses to offer you some relief. You’ll work with our ENT and surgery team if your doctor decides surgery is needed.