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Allergy Shots: What You Need To Know
Allergy Shots Overview and Purpose
Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, are a long-term treatment option aimed at decreasing symptoms for patients suffering from allergies. These injections contain small amounts of the allergens causing the reactions.
The purpose of allergy shots is twofold:
- To assist the immune system in becoming less sensitive to these substances.
- To reduce inflammation and improve tolerance.
Over time, allergy shots can lead to a decrease or even a disappearance of allergy symptoms, potentially reducing the need for medication and improving quality of life.
Immunotherapy is a process that requires consistency and patience over several years for maximum efficacy. The initial phase involves receiving injections with increasing amounts of allergens 1-2 times per week, continuing until the "maintenance dose" is reached. Once at the maintenance dose, the frequency of injections drops to once every 2-4 weeks.
While allergy shots have proven effective for many people, their suitability varies and is not recommended for individuals with severe asthma or heart problems.
Potential Risks and Preparation for Allergy Injections
Allergy injections, also known as immunotherapy, offer a long-term treatment option for chronic allergies by helping to desensitize the body to allergens.
Potential Risks
The most common reactions to allergy injections are local: redness and swelling at the injection site, typically resolving in a few hours. More serious reactions, although rare, can include sneezing, nasal congestion, or hives shortly after an injection. In very rare cases, severe reactions like anaphylaxis may occur.
To minimize risks:
- Injections should be administered by a healthcare professional.
- A waiting period of at least 30 minutes in the doctor's office is suggested after each shot.
- An epinephrine auto-injector may be recommended for those who have had severe reactions previously.
Preparation
Before starting allergy shots:
- A detailed discussion regarding the benefits versus risks of immunotherapy is important.
- Confirmation that the chosen allergen extract is suitable is necessary.
- Understanding the commitment involved with allergy shots, which require regular visits over several years, is crucial.
Immunotherapy involves a comprehensive approach that includes planning and communication.
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Allergy Shot Procedure and Expected Results
The allergy shot procedure, also known as immunotherapy, involves the injection of small doses of allergens into the body. These allergens are substances that trigger allergies.
The process begins with a skin test to identify specific allergies. Once identified, injections containing tiny amounts of these allergens are administered. The shots typically take place in a medical setting. Initially, injections are received once or twice a week for about six months (the build-up phase). After this period, the maintenance phase begins, during which the frequency of injections drops to once every 2-4 weeks for 3-5 years.
Results vary among patients. Some may experience decreased allergy symptoms within several months, while others might take up to one year or longer. However, most report significant relief after one year of treatment, with further improvement over subsequent years.
The allergy shot procedure is a method of gradual desensitization to allergens over time.
Phases of Immunotherapy: Buildup and Maintenance
Immunotherapy comprises two main phases: the "buildup" phase and the "maintenance" phase. The buildup phase is the initial step, involving injections of increasing allergen doses over a period of 3 to 6 months.
- Once the body tolerates a maximum dose, the maintenance phase begins. During this phase, injections are administered at longer intervals, typically every 2 to 4 weeks, for about three to five years or possibly longer.
Navigating through these stages can be challenging. Immunotherapy has the potential to offer long-term allergy relief after the completion of treatment. A clear understanding of each stage is beneficial for managing expectations throughout the treatment process.
Choosing Treatment and Controlling Symptoms with Allergen Desensitization
Choosing the right treatment for allergies can be a complex process. Allergen desensitization, also known as immunotherapy, is one approach that involves exposing individuals to small doses of an allergen over time. This method aims to help the immune system build tolerance.
Immunotherapy is available in two forms: shots and tablets.
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Allergy shots, or subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), involve injecting a small amount of the allergen under the skin. These injections are administered at a doctor's office, typically once a week at the start. Over time, the frequency of visits decreases.
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Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) utilizes tablets or drops placed under the tongue instead of shots. This form of treatment is conducted at home after the initial dosing at the doctor’s office to ensure there are no severe reactions.
Symptom control is an important aspect of desensitization therapy. Antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids are used to manage symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes during treatment.
The response to allergen desensitization varies among individuals, each having their unique response pattern. It may take several months to observe improvement with allergen desensitization, but persistence can lead to significant long-term relief from allergic symptoms for many individuals.