Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Relieving immune system discomfort.
Expert allergists & immunologists in Eastern PA.
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, asthma, or unexplained allergic reactions, you don't have to live with discomfort. At St. Luke's University Health Network, our board-certified allergists and immunologists provide comprehensive diagnostic testing and advanced treatments to help you breathe easier and live symptom-free.
*If you or someone you are with is having a severe allergic reaction, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room.
What are the most common allergens?
A number of common allergens could be making you or your child miserable. Generally, allergens are grouped into categories, including:
- Environmental allergies: Environmental allergies include pet dander, pollen, mold, dust, and many trees and flowers. They’re some of the most common allergies among kids and adults.
- Stinging insect allergies: Stinging insect allergies include bee, wasp, hornet, yellow jacket, and fire ant allergies, among others.
- Medication allergies: Medication allergies are less common than environmental allergies. They include penicillin, antibiotics, NSAIDs, local anesthetic, steroid, and vaccination allergies.
- Contact skin allergies: Contact skin allergies are triggered by many different possible things, including shampoo, soap, metals, topical medication, latex, and others.
- Food allergies: Food allergies are most common in children. Peanuts, eggs, wheat, and milk are among the most common food allergies.
Comprehensive immunologic services
We offer specialized care across the full spectrum of allergic and immunologic conditions. Learn more about our specific services below:
Additional conditions we treat
- Allergic Rhinitis
- Allergic Conjunctivitis
- Allergic Contact Dermatitis
- Anaphylaxis
- Angioedema/Swelling
- Bee Sting Allergy
- Chronic Cough
- Chronic Hives
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis
- Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Food Protein Induced Enter Colitis Syndromes (FPIES)
- Immunodeficiency
- Mast Cell Activation Disorders
- Urticaria (Hives)
Common causes and illnesses caused by allergies
Allergies are triggered by the body’s immune system reacting to typically harmless substances known as allergens. Common causes of allergies include pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds; pet dander; certain foods; medications; and insect bites or stings. These exposures can lead to a variety of allergic conditions and illnesses. For example, pollen is a major cause of hay fever (allergic rhinitis), which can result in sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. Skin reactions such as eczema may also develop, often linked to environmental triggers or food sensitivities. Certain foods, medications, and bug stings or bites can provoke more immediate allergic responses, ranging from mild irritation to more severe symptoms.
Awareness of allergic shock
Allergic shock can be a life-threatening situation. Someone who is experiencing any of these symptoms should seek medical help as soon as possible. People suffering from allergic shock need epinephrine, a hormone (adrenaline) that increases the heart rate to prepare the body for an emergency.
Of course, the best way to prevent allergic reactions is to avoid the things that cause allergies. However, this isn’t always realistic or possible. When the body goes into allergic shock, it can respond in many ways, including:
- Tingling sensation around the mouth
- Swelling of the hands or face
- Itching
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Stomach cramps
- Watery eyes
- Breathing difficulty
- Rapid pulse
Treatment for relieving allergies
Choosing St. Luke's means entrusting your health to a network renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and patient satisfaction. Our team includes highly skilled allergists and immunologists with extensive experience in treating allergenic conditions in adults and children. Your comfort, understanding, and well-being are our top priorities. With multiple locations across the Lehigh Valley, accessing expert immunology care is convenient and hassle-free.
