Allergy shots. Just the thought of getting stuck once with a needle makes many people wince. Weekly or monthly shots? It sounds downright unbearable. But luckily, allergy shots usually don't hurt, and the trade-off is often relief of stubborn allergy symptoms that do not respond to medication.
Immunotherapy (its formal name) has been around since 1911. It is a method of using your own immune system to fight disease. In the case of allergies, immunotherapy causes you to become immune or tolerant to whatever substance you're allergic to. It involves injecting gradually increasing doses of the allergen over several months.
Shots are effective
Allergy shots are considered safe and effective for:
- Allergic rhinitis
- Conjunctivitis
- Allergies to stinging insects
- Allergic asthma
Experts say that allergies trigger asthma in about half of the 20 million Americans who have asthma.
If you have allergic asthma, allergy shots may reduce your need for daily medication. They're safe, and you don't get the side effects of medication.
How do allergy shots work?
Immunotherapy isn't a quick fix. It takes an investment of time. At first, small amounts of the allergen are injected often weekly. Over time, if you don't have adverse reactions, concentrations are gradually increased. This lets you build a tolerance to the substances, or allergens, that provoke your symptoms. Typically you often progress from weekly to monthly shots and continue those for three to five years.
Your shots are tailored to your allergens, as determined by allergy tests and your doctor. Shots are given in your upper arm. Very tiny needles inject the allergen just below the skin's surface.
Local reactions may include redness, swelling or irritation at the site of the injection. Some people get more serious reactions, such as shortness of breath, itchy eyes, runny nose or a tight throat. This is why allergy injections should only be given in a doctor's office. After you have an allergy shot, you are asked to wait about 20 to 30 minutes at the doctor's office to make sure there is no adverse effect.
If you have more than one allergy, several shots may be given at the same time. Allergy shots are not recommended for food allergies.
Allergy shots are an investment of time, but having fewer symptoms can be worth it.
