Immunotherapy: Allergy Relief Now in Season

Unfortunately, the coming of springtime in Houston doesn’t just mean longer days and warmer temperatures. Spring also brings higher pollen counts, which can mean sneezing, stuffy noses, and itchy eyes for seasonal allergy sufferers. If your allergies are impacting your quality of life, immunotherapy may be a good treatment option for long-term relief.

What Is Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy is a method of desensitizing the immune system to specific allergens. It can be administered in either tablet or shot form over an extended period of time to reduce allergy symptoms.

How Does Immunotherapy Work?

Immunotherapy works like a vaccine. Each dose contains a trace amount of the substance that causes your allergic response. The doses increase over time to help your immune system build up a tolerance to the allergen.

During the first phase of immunotherapy, you’ll receive doses up to twice per week for six months. In the second phase, the doses will be given once or twice a month for three to five years. If you stick with immunotherapy over the long-term, it can significantly reduce or stop your allergic attacks.

Who Should Consider Allergy Shots or Tablets?

If you’re suffering from allergy-induced asthma, rhinitis (hay fever), or conjunctivitis (eye allergy), immunotherapy may be a good treatment option.

You may also be a good candidate for immunotherapy if:

• Your seasonal allergy symptoms aren’t getting better with allergy medication.
• Your job or lifestyle prevents you from avoiding allergens.
• Your seasonal allergies keep you from enjoying day-to-day life.

If you suffer from seasonal allergies and would like an acute diagnosis and treatment plan, visit a Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Group ENT physician. If you have a life-threatening allergy, learn what to if you experience anaphylaxis and locate your nearest St. Luke’s Health emergency facility.

Sources:
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology | Allergy Shots
Healthline | Everything You Should Know About Allergy Shots