Immunotherapy, otherwise known as allergy shots, is a medical treatment that can help to reduce allergy symptoms. Consider these questions if you're thinking about starting immunotherapy:
•How do allergy shots work? Allergy shots function similarly to vaccines. Patients receive a series of injections of an allergen which can help them to build up a tolerance, a process known as desensitization. First there is a "buildup phase" involving injections of increasingly larger doses of the allergen, which generally take place several times a week. This phase lasts for several months. Next is the "maintenance phase," which goes on for several years but requires less frequent injections. Some patients do not require additional treatment after this.
•Who should consider immunotherapy? Allergy shots can treat seasonal allergies, allergies to year-round irritants like indoor mold and dander, and insect sting allergies, but do not treat food allergies. Immunotherapy is generally not recommended for very young children or for elderly patients with certain preexisting conditions.
•What are the benefits? Immunotherapy can provide long-term allergy relief, and is a good option for allergens that are difficult to avoid. Patients who have experienced drug interactions or side effects with other allergy medications or found those treatments to be ineffective may be able to turn to immunotherapy as an alternative.
•What are the risks? Allergy shots won't work for everyone, and successful results might not be permanent. Side effects are usually minor, but in rare cases patients could experience anaphylaxis, which can cause difficulty breathing and even be fatal. For this reason, patients should stay in the doctor's office for half an hour after receiving the injection in case they need to be treated for a reaction.
•What's the first step I should take? Talk to an allergist or immunologist. These professionals can perform a test to determine which allergens are affecting you and advise you on treatment options. You can also consult the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology or the Mayo Clinic for more information.
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