Allergy shots, also known as subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), offer a natural and effective way to build tolerance to your specific allergens and find lasting relief.

How Allergy Shots Work

Think of allergy shots like a training program for your immune system. You'll receive small, gradually increasing doses of the allergens you're sensitive to (like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or mold) through injections, usually given in the upper arm. Over time, your body learns to become less reactive to these triggers, reducing the severity of your allergy symptoms. 

The Benefits of Allergy Shots

• Long-Lasting Relief: Unlike medications that only treat symptoms, allergy shots address the underlying cause of your allergies, often providing significant and lasting relief even after treatment ends. 
• Reduced Medication Needs: As your tolerance builds, you may find yourself needing less or even no allergy medication. 
• Prevention of New Allergies: In children, allergy shots may even help prevent the development of new allergies and the progression from allergic rhinitis to asthma.
• Improved Quality of Life: Imagine enjoying outdoor activities, spending time with pets, and breathing easier without the constant burden of allergy symptoms. Allergy shots can make this a reality.

Who Should Consider Allergy Shots?

Allergy shots can be a beneficial treatment option for a variety of individuals, including those who:

• Experience moderate to severe allergy symptoms that significantly impact their daily life. 
• Find that over-the-counter or prescription medications don't provide adequate relief or cause bothersome side effects. 
• Want a long-term solution that addresses the root cause of their allergies rather than just treating symptoms.
• Have asthma that is triggered or worsened by allergies.
• Are looking to potentially reduce their long-term reliance on allergy medications.
• Are children (typically over the age of 5) with persistent allergy symptoms.
• Have allergies to insect stings (like bees, wasps, and hornets).

How Effective Are Allergy Shots?

Allergy shots have been shown to be effective for a significant majority of people with allergies to airborne allergens (like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold) and stinging insects. 

• Significant Improvement: Studies show that approximately 80-85% of people who complete a full course of allergy shots experience a significant reduction in their allergy symptoms. This often translates to less sneezing, runny nose, itching, and improved breathing. 
• Long-Term Benefits: For about 60% of people, the benefits of allergy shots can be long-lasting, even after the 3 to 5-year treatment course is completed. Some individuals may achieve permanent relief, while others may experience milder symptoms that are more easily managed. 
• Reduced Medication Use: Many individuals find they can significantly decrease or even eliminate their need for daily allergy medications after undergoing allergy shot therapy. 
• Prevention: As mentioned earlier, allergy shots can be effective in preventing the development of new allergies and the progression of allergic rhinitis to asthma in children. 

It's important to note that it can take several months (often 6-12) into the maintenance phase of allergy shot treatment to experience noticeable improvement in symptoms. Consistency with the injection schedule is crucial for optimal effectiveness.

Take the First Step Towards Allergy Relief

If you're ready to explore a long-term solution for your allergies and see if allergy shots could be right for you, talk to our allergy specialists. We can determine your specific allergy triggers, assess your suitability for immunotherapy, and create a personalized plan to help you breathe easier and live better.