What is allergen immunotherapy?

During the tree pollen and grass pollen seasons, many people take allergy medication to relieve their symptoms. However, allergen immunotherapy offers a promising long-term solution for those struggling with persistent allergic reactions. This article will explore what allergen immunotherapy is, how it works, and who can benefit from it.

Understanding allergen immunotherapy

Allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots or allergy drops, is a type of allergy treatment that gradually desensitizes the body to specific allergens. The treatment aims to reduce the severity of allergic reactions over time, providing long-lasting relief, rather than just temporarily relieving symptoms with allergy pills or nasal sprays.

How does it work?

The process requires exposing your body to small, controlled amounts of the allergens that trigger your symptoms. This exposure occurs regularly over a period of three to five years. The aim is to train your immune system to become less reactive to these substances.

There are two primary forms of allergen immunotherapy.

Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT)

The traditional method involves injecting small amounts of the allergen under the skin. These injections are usually given in a healthcare setting. The process begins with a build-up phase, during which the doses are gradually increased. This is followed by a maintenance phase, where the effective dose is administered regularly.

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT)

A more recent method for treating allergies involves placing drops or tablets containing the allergen under the tongue. This can often be done at home, making it a convenient option for many. Similar to SCIT, SLIT has a build-up phase followed by a maintenance phase.

Who can benefit?

Allergen immunotherapy may be recommended for individuals with allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, or stinging insect allergy. It is especially beneficial for those who:

• Have symptoms that are not well controlled by allergy medication, such as sprays or pills, and for

• Those who want to reduce their long-term use of allergy medicine.

• It is also effective for those with specific allergies, such as pollen during the tree or grass pollen season, dust mites, or pet dander.

Potential benefits

• Reduced symptoms: many people find that their allergy symptoms become much less severe after undergoing immunotherapy.

• Decreased medication need: there may be a reduced need for allergy meds and nasal sprays.

• Long-term relief: some people experience lasting relief from allergy symptoms, even after the treatment is completed.

Points to Consider

• Time commitment: immunotherapy requires a significant time commitment, with regular treatments over several years.

• Potential side effects: like any medical treatment, there are potential side effects, though severe reactions are rare.

• Consultation required: not everyone is a suitable candidate for allergen immunotherapy. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or an allergy company specialising in this field to discuss your suitability.

Conclusion

Allergen immunotherapy is a fundamental part of long-term allergy management. It directly targets the immune response to allergens, providing lasting relief beyond the temporary solutions offered by allergy sprays and pills. Immunotherapy can be a game-changer in your allergy treatment plan, whether you are dealing with seasonal pollen allergies or year-round triggers like dust mites. It can help you lead a more comfortable, symptom-free life.