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Allergies are a common and inconvenient fact of life for millions of people around the globe. At best, allergic reactions can mean discomfort and annoyance. At worst, they can be life-threatening.
Allergen immunotherapy offers a long-term solution for allergy sufferers. This treatment can provide relief for a wide range of allergies, from seasonal allergies to food allergies.
Let’s explore the basics of allergen immunotherapy, including how it works, its effectiveness, and its risks.
Allergen Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy or allergen immunotherapy is a long-term treatment for many people suffering from allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, or stinging insect allergies.
Allergen immunotherapy is offered to reduce the severity of allergic reactions and, ideally, eliminate them altogether. Allergen immunotherapy is typically recommended for people with severe allergies who have not responded well to other allergy treatments, such as medications.
It is worth noting here that allergen immunotherapy is not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions, such as a history of severe asthma.
How Allergen Immunotherapy Works?
Allergen immunotherapy works by gradually exposing the body to a small but gradually increasing dose of the allergen. This is done by injecting a small amount of allergen extract under the skin (subcutaneous immunotherapy or allergy shot) or by placing tablets or drops of the allergen extract under the tongue (sublingual immunotherapy).
Over time, the immune system learns to tolerate the allergen and no longer overreact. This process is called desensitization.
There are two phases:
- Build-up Phase. The build-up phase is when injections of increasing allergens are administered approximately one to two times a week. The duration of this phase depends on the frequency of the injections but is typically between three and six months.
- Maintenance Phase. The maintenance phase is when the effective maintenance dose is reached. This is determined by the individual’s level of sensitivity to allergens and their response to the build-up phase. During this phase, there will be longer periods between treatments, ranging from two to four weeks.
During the build-up phase, you may experience a reduction in symptoms. However, it may take up to 12 months of maintenance dose for you to see an improvement. Maintenance treatment is usually continued for 3 to 5 years after allergy shots have been successful.
Effectiveness of Allergen Immunotherapy
Allergen immunotherapy has shown efficacy in the treatment of certain types of allergies. It can prevent the development of new allergies and the progression of allergic diseases, from allergic rhinitis to asthma, particularly in children.
The effectiveness of allergen immunotherapy is related to the treatment length and the allergen dose.
The benefits of immunotherapy may persist for years after treatment has stopped and may include:
- Improved quality of life
- Long-term relief from allergy symptoms
- Reduced risk of complications like asthma or anaphylactic reaction
Risks of Allergen Immunotherapy
Most people tolerate allergen immunotherapy well, but like any other treatment, it also has some risks. In some cases, people may experience redness and swelling at the injection site or even more severe reactions. Your allergist will monitor your reaction to the treatment and adjust the dosage accordingly.
Allergic Reaction Treatment in Will County & DuPage County, IL
Allergen immunotherapy offers a long-lasting solution to allergy sufferers tired of managing their allergic reaction symptoms with medication alone. This treatment can provide permanent relief from allergy symptoms and potentially eliminate the need for medication.
While this treatment has some potential risks, the benefits outweigh the risks for many people.
If you suffer from severe allergy symptoms, see one of our outstanding allergists here at Oak Brook Allergists to determine whether allergen immunotherapy could be the right choice for you. We are committed to working with you to accurately diagnose, appropriately treat, and effectively relieve your allergy and asthma symptoms.
To know more about our services or to schedule a consultation with our providers, contact us today at (630) 574-0460 or fill out our online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!
