Allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy, offer a long-term approach to managing allergic conditions. This treatment aims to reduce a person’s sensitivity to specific allergens over time. Unlike medications that temporarily alleviate symptoms, allergy shots work to modify the body’s immune response to these triggers.
How Allergy Shots Work
Allergy shots function by gradually introducing small, increasing doses of specific allergens into the body. This process works to desensitize the immune system to substances that typically trigger allergic reactions. The body learns to tolerate these allergens instead of reacting to them.
Over time, the immune system’s response shifts from producing immunoglobulin E (IgE), which is associated with allergic reactions, to generating immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. The production of IgG antibodies helps block allergens from attaching to cells that cause allergic responses. This immune system re-education diminishes the severity of allergic symptoms.
The Treatment Process
Treatment begins with diagnostic testing to identify the specific allergens causing a person’s symptoms. This often involves skin tests or blood tests performed by an allergist. Once the triggers are identified, a customized allergen extract mixture is prepared for the individual.
The treatment then proceeds through two distinct phases: the build-up phase and the maintenance phase. The build-up phase involves frequent injections, usually one to three times per week, for a period of three to six months. During this initial stage, the dose of allergens in each shot is gradually increased until a target dose is reached.
Consistency in this phase is important; missing doses may require dose adjustments or a return to lower concentrations. Upon reaching the target dose, individuals transition to the maintenance phase. In this phase, injections are given less frequently, typically once every two to four weeks. This consistent dosage continues for three to five years, or longer. The maintenance phase establishes long-lasting changes in the immune system.
Outcomes of Treatment
Successful allergy shot treatment can lead to significant improvements in allergy symptoms. Many individuals experience a noticeable reduction in sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, and other allergic manifestations. This decrease in symptom severity often translates into a reduced need for daily allergy medications, providing long-term relief.
The benefits often become apparent within six to twelve months of starting treatment, with more significant improvements observed in the second year. Allergy shots can provide sustained relief, with positive effects potentially lasting for years even after treatment cessation.
Beyond symptom control, immunotherapy has shown potential in preventing the development of new allergies. It may also help prevent the progression of allergic rhinitis to asthma, particularly in children. Approximately 80 to 90 percent of people undergoing allergy immunotherapy report improvement in their symptoms.
Considering Potential Side Effects
Allergy shots can cause reactions. The most common reactions are local, occurring at the injection site. These include redness, swelling, or itching. These local reactions appear within a few hours and resolve quickly, though some may last longer. Applying ice or taking an antihistamine can help manage these mild reactions.
Less common, but potentially more serious, are systemic reactions, which affect the entire body. Symptoms range from sneezing, nasal congestion, and hives to more severe manifestations like throat swelling, wheezing, or chest tightness. In rare instances, anaphylaxis can occur, characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and unconsciousness.
For this reason, individuals typically remain at the clinic for 20 to 30 minutes after each injection for observation. Medical staff are prepared to manage any severe reactions, sometimes requiring an epinephrine auto-injector.
Understanding the Investment
Allergy shot treatment involves a commitment of both time and financial resources. The treatment spans several years, requiring regular visits for injections. During the build-up phase, weekly visits are common, transitioning to monthly visits during the maintenance phase. Missing scheduled injections can prolong the overall treatment duration or necessitate dose adjustments.
Costs vary based on individual insurance coverage, co-pays, and the cost of allergen extracts. While the initial costs may seem substantial, allergy shots can be cost-effective over time compared to continuous, long-term use of allergy medications. The reduction in symptoms and decreased reliance on daily medications can lead to savings in prescription costs and fewer healthcare visits.