Immunotherapy – Tyler

At Access Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology we believe that understanding your treatment options is a vital step in managing your health. One treatment that often raises questions is immunotherapy, also commonly referred to as “allergy shots”. This article will break down the basics of immunotherapy, explain how it works, and highlight how it can help patients manage allergies and other conditions.

What is Allergen Immunotherapy ?

I mmunotherapy is a medical treatment designed to train your immune system to respond differently to allergens or other triggers that cause symptoms. The goal is to reduce or even eliminate your sensitivity to specific allergens over time, leading to long-term relief.

Immunotherapy is commonly used to treat:

  • Seasonal allergies (e.g., pollen, grass, or mold)
  • Year-round allergies (e.g., dust mites, pet dander)
  • Insect sting allergies (e.g., bee or wasp venom)

How Does Immunotherapy Work?

Your immune system is designed to protect your body from harmful substances like bacteria and viruses. However, in people with allergies, the immune system mistakenly reacts to harmless substances, such as pollen or pet dander, as if they were dangerous. This overreaction leads to symptoms like sneezing, itching, or more severe allergic reactions.

Immunotherapy works by gradually exposing your immune system to small, controlled amounts of the allergen causing your symptoms. Over time, this exposure helps your body build tolerance, so it reacts less intensely – or not at all – when exposed to the allergen in the future.

Types of Allergen Immunotherapies

There are two primary forms of immunotherapy:

Allergy Shots (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy, SCIT)

  • Small doses of the allergen are injected under the skin.
  • Initially, shots are given once or twice a week, with doses gradually increasing.
  • Once a maintenance dose is reached, injections are spaced out to every 1-4 weeks, depending on the severity of your allergies and response to treatment.

Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)

  • A tablet or drops containing allergens are placed under the tongue.
  • This method is often used for pollen or dust mite allergies.
  • It is taken daily at home and is a needle-free option.

Both methods are safe, effective, and tailored to the individual patient’s needs.

What to Expect from Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is not a quick fix – it’s a long-term solution. Most patients begin to see improvement in symptoms within 6-12 months of starting treatment, but the therapy typically lasts 3-5 years to achieve lasting results.

Key Benefits of Immunotherapy include:

  • Reduced need for allergy medications.
  • Fewer allergy symptoms during peak seasons.
  • Improved quality of life with less disruption from allergies.

Immunotherapy is particularly helpful for people who experience severe allergy symptoms or who don’t find

relief with standard allergy medications.

Is Immunotherapy Right for You?

Immunotherapy isn’t for everyone, but it’s a great option if:

  • You have frequent allergy symptoms that affect your daily life.
  • You want to reduce your reliance on medications.
  • You’re looking for a long-term solution to allergy symptoms.

At Access Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology we’ll conduct a thorough evaluation, including allergy testing, to determine if immunotherapy is the right choice for you.

Debunking Common Misconceptions

Many people are hesitant about immunotherapy because they’re unsure what it entails. Here are a few

common concerns, clarified:

Will it cure my allergies?

Immunotherapy doesn’t “cure” allergies, but it can significantly reduce symptoms and improve tolerance to

allergens.

Is it safe?

Yes! Immunotherapy is a well-established treatment supervised by medical professionals. Localized reactions at injection site, such as redness or swelling are the most common reactions and are usually mild. Systemic allergic reactions can occur when receiving immunotherapy, but these are rare. All of our patients undergo an observation period after they receive allergen immunotherapy injections. Our staff and providers are trained to manage any side effects or allergic reactions.

Is it painful?

Allergy shots involve small injections, and most patients report minimal discomfort. SLIT is completely needle-free.

Why Choose Us for Immunotherapy?

We specialize in personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Our team in Tyler is here to guide you through the immunotherapy process, answering all your questions and ensuring your treatment is as effective and comfortable as possible.

Take the First Step

If you’re struggling with allergies or curious about whether immunotherapy could help, don’t wait. Contact Access Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology today to schedule a consultation and learn more about this life-changing treatment. Let us help you take control of your allergies and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable life.

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