Allergen Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)

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 1. What are allergy shots and how do they work?

Answer:
Allergy shots are a form of immunotherapy that helps your body build resistance to allergens over time. They contain small, gradually increasing amounts of the substances you’re allergic to (like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander). The goal is to desensitize your immune system so it reacts less strongly, or not at all, to these allergens in the future. 

 Answer:
Allergy shots are most effective for people with allergic rhinitis (hay fever), allergic asthma, or insect sting allergies. They are generally recommended when symptoms are moderate to severe, not well-controlled with medications, or when you want to reduce long-term medication use. They are not typically used for food allergies. 

 Answer:
It can take 3 to 6 months to start noticing improvement in symptoms, but the full benefits usually develop after 1 to 3 years of consistent treatment. Most people continue maintenance shots for 3 to 5 years. Some may maintain lasting relief even after stopping treatment.

 Answer:
Yes. The most common side effects are mild and include redness or swelling at the injection site. Some people may have mild allergy symptoms like sneezing or nasal congestion after a shot. Serious reactions, such as anaphylaxis, are rare but possible, which is why you must stay in the clinic for at least 30 minutes after each injection for monitoring. 

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