Immunotherapy
At Access Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology we believe that understanding your treatment options is a vital step in managing your health. One treatment that often raises questions is immunotherapy, also commonly referred to as “allergy shots”. This article will break down the basics of immunotherapy, explain how it works, and highlight how it can help patients manage allergies and other conditions.
What Is Allergen Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a medical treatment designed to train your immune system to respond differently to allergens or other triggers that cause symptoms. The goal is to reduce or even eliminate your sensitivity to specific allergens over time, leading to long-term relief.
Immunotherapy is commonly used to treat:
Seasonal allergies (e.g., pollen, grass, or mold)
Year-round allergies (e.g., dust mites, pet dander)
Insect sting allergies (e.g., bee or wasp venom)
How Does Immunotherapy Work?
Your immune system is designed to protect your body from harmful substances like bacteria and viruses. However, in people with allergies, the immune system mistakenly reacts to harmless substances, such as pollen or pet dander, as if they were dangerous. This overreaction leads to symptoms like sneezing, itching, or more severe allergic reactions.
Immunotherapy works by gradually exposing your immune system to small, controlled amounts of the allergen causing your symptoms. Over time, this exposure helps your body build tolerance, so it reacts less intensely – or not at all – when exposed to the allergen in the future.
Types of Allergen Immunotherapies
There are two primary forms of immunotherapy:
Allergy Shots (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy, SCIT)
- Small doses of the allergen are injected under the skin.
- Initially, shots are given once or twice a week, with doses gradually increasing.
- Once a maintenance dose is reached, injections are spaced out to every 1-4 weeks, depending on the severity of your allergies and response to treatment.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)
- A tablet or drops containing allergens are placed under the tongue.
- This method is often used for pollen or dust mite allergies.
- It is taken daily at home and is a needle-free option.
Both methods are safe, effective, and tailored to the individual patient’s needs.
What to expect From Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is not a quick fix – it’s a long-term solution. Most patients begin to see improvement in symptoms within 6-12 months of starting treatment, but the therapy typically lasts 3-5 years to achieve lasting results.
Key Benefits of Immunotherapy include:
Reduced need for allergy medications
Fewer Allergy Symptoms During Peak Seasons
Improved Quality Of Life With Less Disruption From Allergies
Is Immunotherapy Right For You?
Immunotherapy isn’t for everyone, but it’s a great option if:
- You have frequent allergy symptoms that affect your daily life.
- You want to reduce your reliance on medications.
- You’re looking for a long-term solution to allergy symptoms.
At Access Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology we’ll conduct a thorough evaluation, including allergy testing, to determine if immunotherapy is the right choice for you.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
Many people are hesitant about immunotherapy because they’re unsure what it entails. Here are a few common concerns, clarified:
Will it cure my allergies?
Immunotherapy doesn’t “cure” allergies, but it can significantly reduce symptoms and improve tolerance to allergens.
Is it safe?
Yes! Immunotherapy is a well-established treatment supervised by medical professionals. Localized reactions at injection site, such as redness or swelling are the most common reactions and are usually mild. Systemic allergic reactions can occur when receiving immunotherapy, but these are rare. All of our patients undergo an observation period after they receive allergen immunotherapy injections. Our staff and providers are trained to manage any side effects or allergic reactions.
Is it painful?
Allergy shots involve small injections, and most patients report minimal discomfort. SLIT is completely needle-free.
Why Choose Access Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology?
We provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our compassionate team is dedicated to helping you and your family lead healthier, allergy-free lives. Whether you’re a parent managing your child’s health or seeking solutions for your own allergies, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Take the First Step Today
If you or your child are struggling with allergies, don’t wait to get help. Schedule an appointment with Access Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and let us help you breathe easier, live better, and enjoy life to the fullest.