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Everything You Need to Know About Allergy Shots

Updated: Jun 12



Allergies are a common ailment affecting millions⁽¹⁾ of people worldwide, causing symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe reactions. For those struggling with persistent allergies, allergy shots offer a long-term solution. In this blog post, we will explore what allergy shots are, how it works, and its benefits for allergy sufferers.



Woman with hay fever outdoors.


What are Allergy Shots/SCIT?

Subcutaneous immunotherapy, often referred to as allergy shots, is a form of treatment aimed at reducing the severity of allergic reactions. Unlike medications that only manage symptoms, SCIT targets the root cause of allergies by gradually desensitizing the immune system to specific allergens.



What Symptoms Does SCIT Curb?

SCIT can help alleviate a wide range of symptoms, including:


  • Nasal Congestion: Reduced nasal blockage and easier breathing

  • Runny Nose: Decreased nasal discharge

  • Sneezing: Less frequent sneezing episodes

  • Itchy Eyes, Nose, and Throat: Reduced itching and irritation

  • Watery Eyes: Less tearing and eye discomfort

  • Asthma Symptoms: Decreased frequency and severity of asthma attacks related to allergies

  • Skin Reactions: Reduction in hives or eczema triggered by allergens

  • Seasonal Allergies



How Effective is Subcutaneous Immunotherapy?

SCIT is highly effective for many people. A lot of research⁽²⁾ has shown that it can lead to long-term relief of allergy symptoms, even after the treatment is discontinued. The effectiveness of SCIT depends on factors such as:


  • The severity and type of allergies

  • Adherence to the treatment schedule

  • Individual response to the therapy


Benefits of Subcutaneous Immunotherapy


  1. Long-Term Relief: SCIT offers long-lasting relief from allergy symptoms, often continuing even after the treatment has ended.

  2. Reduced Medication Dependency: Patients undergoing SCIT often find they need fewer allergy medications, which can have side effects and may not always provide complete relief.

  3. Improved Quality of Life: By reducing the frequency and severity of allergic reactions, SCIT can significantly improve a patient's quality of life, allowing them to engage in activities they might have previously avoided.

  4. Prevention of New Allergies: SCIT has been shown to prevent the development of new allergies and can also reduce the risk of asthma in children with allergic rhinitis.



How Does Subcutaneous Immunotherapy Work?

SCIT involves the regular injection of allergen extracts into the subcutaneous tissue (the layer of fat just under the skin). Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the process:


  1. Allergy Testing: Before starting SCIT, a thorough allergy test is conducted to identify the specific allergens causing the symptoms. This can include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, and insect stings.

  2. Initial Phase (Build-up Phase): During this phase, the patient receives injections with gradually increasing amounts of the allergen extract. This typically occurs once or twice a week and lasts for about 3 to 6 months. The goal is to build up the body's tolerance to the allergen.

  3. Maintenance Phase: Once the effective dose is reached, the patient enters the maintenance phase, receiving injections less frequently (usually every 2 to 4 weeks). This phase can last for 3 to 5 years. Over time, the immune system becomes desensitized to the allergen, leading to a significant reduction in allergy symptoms.

  4. Monitoring and Adjustment: Throughout the treatment, the patient's response to the injections is monitored closely. The dosage may be adjusted based on the patient's tolerance and any side effects experienced.



Who Can Benefit from Subcutaneous Immunotherapy?

SCIT is recommended for individuals who have:


  • Severe or persistent allergies that are not well-controlled with medications

  • Allergies to multiple allergens

  • Allergic asthma

  • A desire to reduce their long-term dependency on allergy medications



Are There Any Risks?

While SCIT is generally safe, it does carry some risks, primarily related to allergic reactions to the injections. These can range from mild local reactions (redness, swelling at the injection site) to more severe systemic reactions (anaphylaxis)⁽³⁾. Therefore, SCIT should always be administered in a medical setting where immediate treatment for any adverse reactions is available.



 


Get Allergy Shots in Hollywood, FL


Subcutaneous immunotherapy is a highly effective treatment for individuals suffering from persistent and severe allergies. If you or a loved one is struggling with allergies, consult with an allergist or an Otolaryngologist to see if SCIT is a suitable option for you.


With proper administration and monitoring, SCIT can be a game-changer in managing and overcoming allergies. Schedule your appointment with us today!


Address: 3911 Hollywood Blvd#201, Hollywood, FL 33021, United States

Phone: 754-888-1368







REFERENCES

(1) American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology (n.d.) Allergy Statistics. AAAAI. https://www.aaaai.org/about/news/for-media/allergy-statistics


(2) Klimek, L., Brehler, R., Hamelmann, E. et al. Evolution of subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy (part 1): from first developments to mechanism-driven therapy concepts. Allergo J Int 28, 78–95 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40629-019-0092-4


(3) Cherney, K. (2021, May 18). What you need to know about allergy shots. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/allergy-shots#side-effects



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Dr. David Eleff, Otolaryngologist/Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist at ENT Family in Hollywood, Florida.

This article has been medically reviewed by otolaryngologist, David Eleff, M.D.

ENT Family Blog

3911 Hollywood Blvd, Suite 201, Hollywood, FL

754-888-1368

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