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Allergy Shots Can Benefit Seasonal Allergy Sufferers |
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For seasonal allergy sufferers, a technique called immunotherapy, or allergy shots, can possibly rid their suffering once and for all. Immunotherapy is the closest thing to a cure for allergies.
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is an effective form of treatment aimed at increasing the tolerance to the allergens that trigger a person's allergy symptoms. The treatment is ultimately successful in up to 90% of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).
Immunotherapy also has been shown to prevent the development of new allergies, and in children, it can prevent the progression of allergic rhinitis and asthma. Patients receiving immunotherapy treatment showed improved symptoms such as reduced use of medications and better lung function.
When is the best time to start?
“Immunotherapy should be started at a time of the year when the allergic individual has minimal symptoms,” said Linda Cox, MD, a Fellow of the AAAAI and chair of its Immunotherapy and Allergy Diagnostics Committee. “For the seasonal allergy sufferer, that time of year is generally the winter months.”
Allergy sufferers interested in immunotherapy treatment should consult with an allergist/immunologist, who is the specialist trained in the safety issues pertaining to immunotherapy. “A board certified allergist has completed a specialized two to three year training program/fellowship focused on the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases,” said Dr. Cox.
Is it right for me?
Immunotherapy isn't for everyone. An allergist/immunologist will discuss all of your allergy treatment options with you, including immunotherapy, medications and allergy avoidance. He or she will take a though history and conduct tests to determine what is triggering your symptoms and work with you to see if immunotherapy is right for you.
The decision to begin immunotherapy will be based on several factors including:
- Length of allergy season in the patient's region
- Severity of symptoms
- How well medications and/or environmental controls improve allergy symptoms
- Desire to avoid long-term allergy medication use
- Time – immunotherapy will require commitment
- Cost – may vary on region and insurance coverage
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology |
