ALLERGEN IMMUNOTHERAPY

Allergy medications and/or avoidance of allergens do not always keep allergy symptoms   well-controlled.  For patients struggling with control issues, allergists may suggest allergen immunotherapy, which is a series of shots given at regular intervals for several years.  The first shot contains a very small amount of the specific allergen that is causing symptoms.  This shot allows the immune system to become accustomed to the allergen so that it will not over-react and cause symptoms.  Over time, the amount of allergen in the shots increases.  Eventually the body tolerates the allergen and becomes desensitized to its presence. Once symptoms diminish or disappear, the allergist can extend the amount of time between shots until injections are no longer necessary.

P.S. Allergists sometimes suggest taking an antihistamine before getting an allergy shot to help reduce the risk of any adverse reaction.

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