Definition (1)
- Allergies and asthma: They often occur together
Symptoms (1)
- Anaphylaxis
Treatments and drugs (3)
- Allergy medications: Know your options
- Prednisone and other corticosteroids: Balance the risks and benefits
- Allergy shots: Hope for long-term allergy relief
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continued:
Allergy shots: Hope for long-term allergy relief
How long does it take to get relief?
Allergy symptoms won't stop overnight. They usually improve during the first year of treatment, but the most noticeable improvement often happens during the second year. By the third year, most people are desensitized to the allergens contained in the shots — and no longer have allergic reactions to those substances. Most people need allergy shots for a few years. After that, some people remain desensitized after treatment stops. Others need to continue regular allergy shots to keep symptoms from returning.
If your symptoms don't improve after one year of regular allergy shots, your doctor will evaluate the situation. Perhaps the allergen dose needs to be adjusted or additional allergens must be added to the shots. Sometimes, allergy shots may be stopped in favor of other treatments.
How long will relief last?
It varies. For some people, treatment leads to a life without allergy symptoms, especially for children and people who undergo longer periods of treatment. Other people need to continue getting shots on a long-term basis to keep allergy symptoms at bay.
Can allergy shots cause allergic reactions?
Allergy shots are generally safe. But they contain the substances that cause your allergies — so reactions are possible. These reactions could include:
- Local reactions. You may notice redness, swelling or irritation at the site of the injection. These normal reactions typically clear up within four to eight hours.
- Systemic reactions. These widespread reactions are less common — but potentially more serious. You may notice sneezing, nasal congestion and hives. More-severe reactions may include throat swelling, wheezing or chest tightness.
- Anaphylaxis. In rare cases, allergy shots can trigger a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis that causes low blood pressure and trouble breathing. An anaphylactic reaction can be life-threatening. If you get weekly or monthly shots on a regular schedule without missing doses, you're less likely to have a serious reaction.
The possibility of a severe reaction is scary — but you won't be on your own. You'll be observed in the doctor's office for up to 30 minutes after each shot, when the most serious reactions are likely to occur. If you have a reaction after you leave, return to your doctor's office or go to the nearest emergency room.
Are there special considerations for children?
For children with allergies, allergy shots may prevent allergy-related asthma later in life. Allergy shots may keep kids from developing new allergies as well. Allergy shots can begin as early as age 5.
Weighing the pros and cons of allergy shots
If you wonder whether allergy shots are right for you — or your child — there's plenty to consider. Ask yourself these questions:
- How severe are your symptoms? Allergy shots might be worth considering if your symptoms are severe or tough to manage. If you have seasonal allergies, the length of the season that gives you the most trouble might influence your decision.
- Are you happy with your current allergy medication? Shots are uncomfortable — or even frightening, especially for kids. But shots might be appealing if your allergy medication isn't working as well as you'd like or if you're struggling with significant side effects.
- Can you avoid your allergens? If the allergens that trigger your symptoms are unavoidable, allergy shots might offer an alternative to medication.
- Are you prepared for long-term treatment? Allergy shots require frequent clinic visits for at least several years.
- Is cost a concern? Find out whether allergy shots are covered by your health insurance plan.
Work with your doctor to better understand the pros and cons of allergy shots. Together, you can develop the best allergy management plan for you.
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