Ever Heard of Allergy Shots? Get Insights on It

By      12-May 2020       Reading Time: 5 Mins

Ever Heard of Allergy Shots? Get Insights on It

Allergy shots which are also known by the name of allergen immunotherapy, involve a sequence of treatments intended to give relief from the symptoms of severe allergies. By using allergy shots, the symptoms of allergies get better with time while giving you long-term relief.

You might consider taking allergy shots if you are suffering from the symptoms of severe allergy that gets worsen with the time and medicines and lifestyle changes have failed to provide you sufficient relief.

These shots can give you relief by resolving:

  • Dust mites
  • Feathers
  • Mold
  • Pet dander
  • Pollen
  • Stinging insects

How do allergy shots work?

Allergy shots consist of different injections that contain small quantities of allergen which further decrease the symptoms of allergies. With time, the allergen works by building immunity in the body to it. This process works similarly to taking a vaccine. Allergy shots also keep a check on how immune system cells response and function when it comes in contact with allergens. Successful immunotherapy decreases the overall symptoms of allergy while making the body strong enough to fight off the allergens.

Preparation for Allergy Shots

Consulting a doctor before is the first step to prepare yourself for the allergy shots. A full evaluation of the allergies before the immunotherapy is a must so that your doctor knows which substances to use in the shots. Allergy testing is a process that requires your skin pricking. The skin on your back or forearm will be pricked with plenty of different types of allergens to conclude the specific ones that are causing reactions.

Avoid any indulgence in exercises for before and after 2 hours of your appointment. The reason behind this is- exercising boosts the flow of blood in the body which can increase the speed of allergens of spreading throughout your body. It is best to tell the doctor about all the medications, treatments and medicines you have been using prior to reducing the risk of side effects.

Are these efficient? 

Once the injections are completely over, allergy shots are effective in providing long-term relief and advantages. Various doctors said that ‘Some people who have used allergen immunotherapy may no longer need medication for their allergies. People may even notice several benefits early on in the maintenance phase of treatment.’

There are various cases in which allergy shots don’t do any work. The reasons for this might include:

  • Discontinuing treatment due to side effects and reactions
  • Constant exposure to allergens at high levels
  • Actual shots did not contain enough allergen
  • Missed allergens during your initial evaluation

Side effects of allergy shots

The basic and most common side effect of allergy shot includes redness or swelling at or nearby the area of the injection. After getting the injection, the symptoms can be seen immediately or it can take a few hours to get noticed. 

People also experience increased allergy symptoms like:

  • Sneezing
  • Rashes
  • Nasal congestion
  • Watery eyes
  • Hives

The chances of a serious reaction to an allergy shot are extremely less and it can be seen in 30 minutes of the injection. A serious reaction is known as anaphylaxis and it requires proper attention and special care for the appropriate treatment.

Footnote

Allergy shots have proved beneficial for various people and it requires a year of proper maintenance for great results.

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