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Allergies are a response from the body’s immune system to substances that are typically harmless to most people. When a person with an allergy is exposed to one of these triggers, their immune system responds, resulting in symptoms. Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, molds, and insect venom. For individuals with persistent or severe symptoms, one potential management option is subcutaneous immunotherapy, more commonly known as allergy shots. Here’s information on allergy shots and how they work:
What Are Allergy Shots?
Allergy shot treatments involve a series of injections, which contain carefully measured amounts of specific allergens. These immunotherapy shots are designed to help manage certain types of allergies. The goal is to help the body gradually build tolerance to triggers over time, reducing the severity of allergy symptoms. Another benefit of immunotherapy shots is that they may decrease the need for long-term medications. Reducing symptoms works through a gradual desensitization process, where repeated, controlled exposure can help modulate the immune system’s response to the allergen.
Who Are They For?
Good candidates are those who have specific, confirmed allergens causing their symptoms and are committed to a multi-year treatment plan under the supervision of a clinician. Allergy shots are recommended for individuals with moderate-to-severe allergy symptoms that are not adequately controlled by medications or environmental changes. These shots are not used for allergies related to food, medication, or latex.
What Are Some Symptoms?
Some common allergy symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Nasal Congestion
- Itchy or Watery Eyes
- Coughing or Wheezing
- Skin Irritation or Rashes
What Allergies Are Shots For?
Allergy shots are most commonly used to address symptoms caused by airborne allergens and to manage systemic reactions to stinging insects. Immunotherapy can be effective for managing allergies to various airborne substances. These may include pollens from trees, grasses, and weeds, as well as indoor allergens like dust mites, animal dander, and certain molds. An allergist determines candidacy based on diagnostic testing and a detailed clinical assessment.
Allergy shots are also an established treatment for individuals who have experienced severe systemic reactions to insect stings. This includes venom from honeybees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and certain types of ants. A specialist evaluation is necessary to confirm the specific venom allergen and determine if immunotherapy is an appropriate course of action.
How Are Allergy Shots Done?
The process of receiving immunotherapy shots follows a structured protocol, usually beginning with a comprehensive evaluation. An allergy specialist will evaluate and confirm an allergy with a test, identifying the specific allergens that trigger a reaction. Based on these results, a personalized treatment plan is developed.
The shots are administered in a medical setting, and patients are monitored for a period after each injection to observe for any potential reactions. This treatment is typically divided into two distinct phases:
- Buildup Phase: This initial phase involves receiving injections with gradually increasing doses of the allergen. These are often administered one to two times per week and may last for several months.
- Maintenance Phase: Once the target effective dose is reached, the maintenance phase begins. During this time, the injections are given less frequently, usually every two to six weeks. This phase continues for several years, as recommended by the specialist, to maintain the level of tolerance.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you experience persistent or severe allergy symptoms, schedule a consultation with an allergy specialist. An expert can discuss whether allergy shots are appropriate for you, explain the potential benefits and risks, outline expected timelines, and review alternative management options. Together, you can develop a comprehensive plan that aligns with your specific health needs and goals.
