Allergen immunotherapy is a treatment that helps your body become less sensitive to your environmental allergies, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. It works by giving you very small amounts of the allergen (what you are allergic to) and gradually increasing the amount of the allergen over time, most commonly via allergy shots. This helps train your immune system so it reacts less strongly to allergens over time. Allergen immunotherapy can be beneficial in the treatment of many allergic conditions, including allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, and some stinging insect allergies. Many patients experience fewer symptoms, need less allergy medication, and have a better quality of life, with benefits that can last even after treatment ends.
Like any medical treatment, allergen immunotherapy has risks. Most side effects are mild, such as redness or itching at the treatment site or temporary allergy symptoms, but rarely, more serious reactions can occur, which is why it is prescribed and monitored by an allergy specialist. It is not a quick fix, as treatment usually takes 3-5 years for maximal benefit. Alternative treatments include avoiding allergy triggers when possible and using medications such as antihistamines and nasal sprays, which can control symptoms but do not change the underlying allergy. Immunotherapy is the only treatment that can change and decrease your allergies rather than just treating symptoms.
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