Allergy & Immunology
Allergists/Immunologists are experts in your body’s immune system.
If your immune system isn’t doing enough to protect your body from harmful substances like bacteria, viruses and toxins, you might have an immunodeficiency disorder.
But if your immune system kicks into high gear when it encounters substances that are usually harmless—like grass pollen or peanuts—you likely have an allergy. Depending on the allergy, symptoms can range from mildly bothersome to – in extreme cases – life-threatening.
Allergists/Immunologists at UNC Medical Center have advanced training in identifying and treating all types of allergies and immunodeficiency disorders, allowing you to live more comfortably. You’ll know you’re getting top-quality care because we serve as a referral center for people all over North Carolina, as well as from outside the state. Our specialists have experience finding solutions for even the most complicated cases, including those that didn’t respond to standard treatments.
Conditions We Treat
Find diagnosis and treatment options for all allergic and immunological diseases, including:
- Allergies – Sneezing, itching, swelling, rashes or other symptoms caused by your immune system reacting to a substance that doesn’t bother most people
o Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) – Caused by particles in the air you breathe, such as pollens, dust mites, animal dander and mold
o Drug allergies – Triggered by a medication, such as an antibiotic
o Food allergies – Caused by a particular protein found in a food
o Stinging insect allergies – Caused by venom from an insect sting
o Alpha-gal allergy – Triggered by galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose, a carbohydrate found in mammal meat; the allergy may be caused by a tick bite
- Asthma – Chronically inflamed airways that cause recurring periods of wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness
- Hives (urticaria) – Red, itchy, swollen areas of skin; may be caused by an allergic reaction, viral infections, extreme temperatures, sun, water or exercise
- Swelling (angioedema) – Swelling under the skin, often seen with hives
- Immunodeficiency disorders – Weakened immune system that leaves you more susceptible to illness
- Anaphylaxis – life-threatening reactions to various substances, characterized by tongue swelling, airway swelling, and shock
Allergy & Immunology Services We Offer
You’ll get comprehensive care for your allergy, asthma or immunodeficiency disorder at UNC Medical Center’s Allergy & Immunology clinic. Take advantage of:
- Allergy testing – Places a very small amount of an allergen into your skin to test for environmental, food and stinging insect allergies
- Allergy shots (immunotherapy) – Decreases symptoms of allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma and stinging insect allergies
- Anti-IgE therapy (omalizumab injections) – Helps prevent allergic reactions; used to treat moderate to severe persistent asthma
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy – Replaces antibodies through infusion therapy to help your body protect itself from bacteria, viruses and other things that make you sick; used to treat immunodeficiency disorders
Find specialized services for children with immune deficiencies or allergic diseases at NC Children’s Hospital.
