Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
are a long-term treatment for allergies in which your body is introduced to small amounts of an allergen, with the goal of building up an immunity. Immunotherapy can greatly reduce symptoms and prevent future allergic reactions. If your current allergy treatment plan isn’t working, immunotherapy could give you the relief you need.
Call us today at 478-787-4728 to schedule an appointment at any of our five locations!
Allergy shots can treat several conditions:
- Allergic asthma
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Dust mites
- Grass
- Eye & nasal allergies
- Hives
- Immunologic diseases
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Stinging insect allergies
Are Allergy Shots Right for Me?
The Langford Allergy team will meet with you and talk about whether allergy shots are an effective treatment for your allergies. In general, it is a good option for people who have severe symptoms interfering with normal, daily activities, whether they are on allergy medication or cannot take allergy medication due to the side effects associated.
Children must be at least three years old to receive allergy shots. Adults with severe asthma, high blood pressure, glaucoma, or who take certain medications may not be candidates for allergy shots. Unfortunately, immunotherapy is not a treatment for allergies to food or medication.
What Should You Expect?
Your allergy shot treatment will occur in two phases: build-up and maintenance.
The build-up phase lasts between two and six months, and this is when your body is introduced to very small doses of the allergen. The dose will gradually increase until the correct amount for immunity is met.
You will receive this same dose throughout the maintenance phase, which lasts between three and five years. This phase allows your body to become less sensitive to the allergen, which will reduce your allergy symptoms.
The Langford Allergy providers want to help! We offer multiple types of treatment for allergies. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.