Sneezing, itching, coughing and congestion are just some of the symptoms of hay fever. If any of those symptoms sound familiar, you might be a candidate for allergy immunotherapy.
What is Allergy Immunotherapy?
Allergy immunotherapy is a long-term treatment to reduce the severity of your allergy symptoms. It comes in two forms:
- Allergy tablets. Allergy tablets are FDA-approved for treating sensitivities to short ragweed pollen, certain grasses and house dust mites. Your allergist will administer the first dose, either as a tablet or a drop under the tongue, in the office and then send you home with a prescription for the subsequent doses. You should ideally start taking the tablets at least 12 weeks before allergy season and continue to take them daily for three years.
- Allergy shots. Allergy shots cover a wider range of allergens than tablets, including tree, grass and weed pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites, cockroaches and stinging insects. You will need to receive the shots one to three times a week to start, and then progress to once a month for approximately three to five years. Whether or not you can administer the shots at home will depend on your allergist’s assessment of your symptoms.
How Do I Know if Immunotherapy Is Right for Me?
There are a few different factors to keep in mind when considering your candidacy for immunotherapy:
- Type of allergies. Allergy shots and drops are only approved for specific allergens. Your allergist will review your options in detail after conducting an allergy test.
- Symptom severity. If your allergy symptoms are very mild and short-lived, you may prefer to manage them with medication. If, however, they’re moderate to severe and stick around uncomfortably long, immunotherapy might be a better option.
- Length of commitment. Immunotherapy is a long-term commitment. Keep in mind that you will need to continue the treatment for at least three years to get the most significant symptom relief.
- Comfort with treatment. Some people don’t like shots. That’s okay, but it may mean allergy shots aren’t for you. If you’re uncomfortable with shots but allergy tablets can treat your sensitivities, your allergist may recommend them instead.
Immunotherapy is an amazing treatment that can provide symptom relief for years. If you’re interested in running around Headwaters Park without the watery eyes and itchy skin, contact Ear, Nose & Throat Associates today to see if the treatment is right for you.