Yes, a steroid shot, specifically a corticosteroid injection, is a powerful treatment option for severe allergies. This treatment involves delivering a strong anti-inflammatory medication directly into the body via an injection, typically into a large muscle. The medication is a synthetic version of hormones naturally produced by the adrenal glands. These steroid shots are generally reserved for acute situations where a patient’s allergic symptoms are debilitating and have not responded to standard therapies. Due to the potency and systemic effects, this shot is not considered a first-line or routine treatment for seasonal allergies.
How the Steroid Shot Works
The corticosteroid injection works due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties that affect the entire body. When an allergic reaction occurs, the immune system overreacts, releasing inflammatory molecules that trigger symptoms such as swelling, congestion, and itching.
The injected corticosteroid mimics the body’s natural stress hormones, suppressing this exaggerated immune response. The medication binds to receptors on immune cells, inhibiting the release of various inflammatory substances. This action effectively dampens the body’s allergic reaction and reduces systemic inflammation.
Unlike traditional allergy shots, which are immunotherapy, the steroid injection is purely a systemic medication. The drug formulation is long-acting, slowly releasing the corticosteroid into the bloodstream over several weeks or even months. This provides sustained relief from symptoms without the need for daily medication, making it a temporary tool for managing severe allergic episodes.
When Doctors Prescribe Allergy Shots
Corticosteroid injections are typically considered a “last resort” for treating seasonal or chronic allergies. Doctors only prescribe this treatment when a patient is experiencing debilitating symptoms that are unresponsive to less invasive options like oral antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal steroid sprays. The goal is to manage severe, acute allergic episodes, such as a major outbreak of poison ivy covering a large area or extreme seasonal allergic rhinitis that prevents a person from functioning.
The systemic nature and potential for side effects mean that medical professionals place strict limits on how often a patient can receive these injections. For conditions like severe seasonal allergies, a doctor may only administer one injection per season to minimize the total drug exposure. This cautious approach is taken because the long-acting formulation cannot be removed from the body if adverse effects begin to develop.
For a person to qualify for the shot, their symptoms must be significantly interfering with their quality of life, and other standard treatments must have proven ineffective. The patient’s overall medical history is thoroughly reviewed to ensure there are no pre-existing conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or certain infections, that would make the injection too risky. The treatment is designed to be a temporary bridge for patients with refractory cases, not a routine solution for chronic allergy management.
Weighing the Risks
The corticosteroid shot carries a range of potential adverse effects that must be carefully considered before use. Short-term side effects can occur soon after the injection and may include temporary mood changes, such as anxiety or restlessness, and difficulty sleeping. Patients may also experience a temporary increase in appetite, facial flushing, or localized pain and swelling at the injection site.
The risks become more significant with repeated or long-term use, which is why the treatment is highly restricted. Corticosteroids can interfere with the body’s natural hormone production, potentially leading to adrenal suppression (where the adrenal glands stop producing sufficient cortisol). Repeated use is also associated with metabolic changes, including elevated blood sugar, a concern for patients with diabetes.
Other serious long-term risks involve the musculoskeletal and metabolic systems, such as a decrease in bone density that can lead to osteoporosis and an increased risk of fractures. The medication can also cause weight gain and fluid retention. Anyone considering a steroid shot must have a detailed discussion with a healthcare provider about their medical history and current health status.