/assets/production/practices/11e407216daf86b6b10096904e7bf87133be31aa/images/2607486.png)
When allergies make you miserable, and over-the-counter medications fail to help, it’s time to learn if you’re a candidate for allergy shots. At Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates in Tampa and Brandon, Florida, our skilled team often recommends allergy shots to help children and adults find relief from their symptoms. Call the nearest Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates office today or use online booking to schedule an appointment to discuss allergy shots.
Allergy Shots Q&A
What are allergy shots?
Allergy shots (immunotherapy) relieve your symptoms by easing your immune system’s response to your allergens (the substances that cause your allergies).
This treatment is very effective because allergies begin when your immune system overreacts, mistaking a harmless substance as dangerous to your health. The substance (your allergen) triggers an immune response every time it enters your body. As a result, your immune system releases chemicals that cause your allergy symptoms.
Allergy shots contain tiny doses of your allergen. With regular shots, your immune system gets used to the allergen and stops its strong reactions. Your symptoms slowly improve and might disappear.
What allergies do shots treat?
The experienced team at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates recommends allergy shots to treat inhaled allergens and allergies to insect venom.
Inhaled allergens treated with shots include:
- Pollen (from trees, grasses, and ragweed)
- Mold spores
- Animal dander
- Dust mites
- Cockroaches
Dust mites and cockroaches trigger allergies when tiny, dead pieces of them float into the air.
How do I know if I qualify for allergy shots?
Your Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates provider runs allergy tests to determine your allergens. Then they recommend allergy shots if you have an inhaled or insect allergy, medications don’t help, and your symptoms are severe enough to need the treatment.
How often do I need allergy shots?
Allergy shots are given in two phases:
Buildup phase
You get one or two shots weekly at the start of your treatment, the buildup phase. Your first allergy shot contains a minimal dose; your provider progressively increases the allergen content in each shot you receive. The doses affect your immune system but usually don’t cause a strong allergic reaction.
This phase typically lasts six to eight months. After your provider determines you’re at the best dose, you start the next phase.
Maintenance phase
During the maintenance phase, you only need one or two shots monthly, each containing the same allergen dose. You stay in this phase until you get the best possible allergy relief.
You might notice a significant improvement during the first year of the maintenance phase. However, getting the best results often takes three to five years.
Don’t suffer through another season of allergies. Call Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates today or use the online booking feature to schedule an appointment to learn if you’re a candidate for allergy shots.