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If you are familiar with immunotherapy and its benefits, then you must be aware of the allergy shots. Even if you are not, fret not as we will discuss several things about it so that you can gain maximum benefits. According to Dr. Kanury Rao – a well-known immunologist in the country, allergy shots are the best treatment options to manage and treat allergy symptoms. This is quite an effective solution that comes with side effects in the long run.
To locate more details, keep on reading.
Understanding allergy shots
As the name suggests, allergy shots are injections. These are given to prevent and reduce allergy symptoms. Allergy shots are specifically given after a regular interval so that symptoms can be managed. Through this, substances that affect the immune system adversely are handled.
An experienced allergist or immunologist gives shots containing a certain amount of the possible allergens. The same will gradually desensitize the body to the injected allergens. As a result, the body's reaction will change and help you manage the inflammation.
Over time, the amount of the allergens in the shots will increase. This will help you strengthen the immune system so that you can have no to minimum reactions the next time when you come across similar allergens. Lastly, as per Kanury Rao, allergy shots are also called allergen immunotherapy injections or subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT).
What types of allergy shots are provided?
When you consult with an experienced immunotherapy consultant, they will provide you with the following types of allergy shots:
Stinging insects: An allergist or immunologist gives allergy shots for insect stings. These are provided for wasps, hornets, bees, and yellow jackets.
Airborne allergens: Allergy shots are also provided to treat airborne allergens. These shots are quite effective for grass pollens, pet allergies, dust mites, molds, plants, and trees.
Please keep in mind that allergy shots are not effective or appropriate for medication allergies, latest allergies, and food allergies. According to medical professionals, the best way to treat these allergies is by avoiding them.
How common is an allergy shot?
Although there are multiple treatment options available to treat allergies, allergy shots are considered quite effective and safe for the same. Hence, they are quite common. It is believed that healthcare professionals have been offering allergy shots for more than 100 years.
Speaking about who can opt for immunotherapy or allergy shots, it is suggested to go for it if you are 5 years of age or older. However, it is good to consult with an expert whether you are a safe candidate for treatment or not. To determine the same, they may conduct certain tests including a patch test – Dr. Kanury Rao.
What is the process followed for allergy shots?
Before you start with the allergy shots, an immunologist or allergist will do some tests that include blood tests and skin tests. These are done to determine the type of allergies that you have. After this, you will be provided allergy shots in two different phases. These include:
Buildup phase: In this phase, allergy shots will be scheduled every 1-3 times a week. This will be continued for the next 6-10 months. Speaking about the dosage of allergens injected, immunologists typically start with a lower amount. Over time, the amount will gradually be increased. However, the immune system’s tolerance level will be checked before that.
Maintenance phase: Once you pass the buildup phase, you will be moved to the next phase which is the maintenance phase. In this phase, the allergy shots are given once a month. The same will be continued for the next 3-5 years. In case the allergies are severe, the maintenance phase can last more than 5 years.
Before giving allergy shots, the allergist will clean the skin with an alcohol pad or other disinfectant. These shots are usually given on the upper arm but you can also ask the healthcare provider to give it on the hip or thigh. After receiving the injection, you will be asked to stay at the clinic for the next 30-45 minutes to see if there is any allergy reaction. Some common reactions include itching, coughing, wheezing, dyspnea (shortness of breath), and hives.
When you cannot get the allergy shots?
Since immunologists or allergists are well-trained and specialized to give allergy shots and treat certain conditions, they will know when to give allergy shots and when to avoid them. According to Kanury Rao, you cannot go for the allergy shots in the following conditions:
If you are pregnant.
If the age of the allergy shot receiver is less than 5 years.
When you have a fever of 37.7 degrees Celsius or 100 degrees Fahrenheit or above.
Have the flu or a cold with a fever.
In case you are getting acute asthma attacks.
If you are consuming beta-blockers, then you are eligible for allergy shots.
Anyone taking medicines for circulatory system or heart health.
Are allergy shots safe and effective?
If you are considering allergy shots for the first time, then you must have this doubt for sure. According to healthcare experts, allergy shots are relatively safe for most patients. Generally, people get allergy shots when they want to reduce or manage allergy symptoms. Please keep in mind that you must go for other alternatives if allergy symptoms are severe.
In a nutshell
According to Dr. Kanury Rao, allergy shots usually work effectively and offer great benefits in managing allergic reactions and related symptoms. If you are also looking to manage your allergies, then you can also consider this treatment approach to gain great outcomes in the long run.
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