Effectiveness of Immunotherapy in Allergy Treatment

What is the effectiveness of immunotherapy in allergy treatment? Allergies can be a real nuisance and can severely affect your quality of life. They can cause symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and even more severe symptoms like anaphylaxis. While there are many different treatment options available for allergies, one treatment option that has gained popularity in recent years is immunotherapy. In this blog post, we will explore what immunotherapy is, how it works, and its effectiveness in allergy treatment.

What is Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a treatment that involves exposing a person to small amounts of an allergen over time, with the goal of reducing their sensitivity to that allergen. The process typically involves regular injections, usually given over a period of several years.

How Does Immunotherapy Work?

The immune system is the body’s defense against harmful substances, including allergens. When the immune system encounters an allergen, it produces antibodies that trigger an allergic reaction. Immunotherapy works by exposing the immune system to small amounts of the allergen, which over time helps the immune system build up a tolerance to the allergen. As the immune system becomes desensitized to the allergen, the severity of the allergic reaction is reduced.

Effectiveness of Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy has been shown to be an effective treatment option for allergies. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, immunotherapy can reduce allergy symptoms in up to 85% of patients. It can also help prevent the development of new allergies and reduce the risk of asthma in children with allergies.

While immunotherapy can be a highly effective treatment option for allergies, it is important to note that it is not a quick fix. The process can take several years to complete, and results may not be noticeable for several months. Additionally, not everyone is a candidate for immunotherapy, and it is important to discuss your options with an allergist or immunologist.

Types of Immunotherapy

There are two main types of immunotherapy:

Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT)

SCIT involves injecting small amounts of the allergen into the patient’s skin, usually in the upper arm. The injections are given on a regular schedule, typically once or twice a week for several months, followed by less frequent injections over a period of several years.

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT)

SLIT involves placing a small amount of the allergen under the patient’s tongue. The allergen is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth. SLIT is typically given daily and can be continued at home.

Is Immunotherapy Right for You?

If you suffer from allergies, immunotherapy may be a good option for you. However, it is important to talk to an allergist or immunologist to determine if you are a good candidate for the treatment. They will take into account your medical history, the severity of your allergies, and other factors to determine if immunotherapy is right for you.

Effectiveness of Immunotherapy in Allergy Treatment: Conclusion

Immunotherapy can be an effective treatment option for allergies, and it is important to discuss your options with an allergist or immunologist. While it may take several years to complete, immunotherapy can help reduce allergy symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Contact Dr. Boyan Hadjiev, also known as “Dr. Sneeze” today for allergy testing and to discuss your allergy treatment options:

Dr. Boyan Hadjiev
Allergy, Asthma and Sinusitis P.C.
30 East 40th Street, Suite 1200
New York, NY 10016

Call 212-319-5282 or visit https://drsneeze.com for more information.