What is Immunotherapy?

Think of immunotherapy as a “vaccine ” against allergies. However, unlike a single shot you might get for tetanus or the flu, immunotherapy involves giving you steady increasing amounts of the substances that cause your allergies. The whole idea of treating you with the very things that make you miserable may seem a bit odd but, in many cases, it works.

How does it work?

Doctors think that receiving regular amounts of the substances that cause your allergies actually makes you less sensitive to them. In other words, allergy shots seem to build up your resistance to things that cause your symptoms, so the next time you run into them, they give you less trouble.

What’s involved in Immunotherapy?

First, your doctor will run a number of tests to pinpoint the substances that cause your allergies. The results of these tests will help your doctor decide whether immunotherapy might help you.

Immunotherapy has been used for over 70 years, and doctors have learned that it works better against some substances than others. As a general rule, immunotherapy tends to be most effective against triggers that you breathe, such as pollen, house dust, molds, and animal dander.

Generally, allergy shots are given year-round. Occasionally, however, shots are given just for the six months before and after allergy season.

At first, you will receive shots once or twice a week. Treatment starts with a tiny amount of the substance that bothers you. Over four to six months, your doctor will gradually increase the amount in each shot until it reaches a level that can really help you.

The reason why your doctor starts with a small amount because you may develop a severe reaction to an allergy shot before your resistance builds up. That’s why immunotherapy is always given in a place equipped to handle a severe reaction quickly. That’s also why you must stay there for 30 minutes after each shot.

If immunotherapy helps you, your doctor will usually continue it for several years. After the first six months, you may need a shot only once every two weeks. In some cases, if your symptoms return after allergy shots are stopped, it may make sense for you to start getting them again. Fortunately, most people don’t need to continue getting their shots indefinitely.

When will my symptoms get better?

Most people begin to notice improvement after they have had allergy shots for six months or longer. Be patient – it takes time to get results. Be sure never to miss an appointment for your shots. In addition, tell your doctor whether you think that shots are helping you and about any bad reactions you get from them. For example, some people develop a sore, swollen arm, wheezing, or an outbreak of hives after they return home from receiving an allergy shot. Reactions like these don’t necessarily mean that allergy shots should be stopped, but your doctor may need to make an adjustment in the amount of each shot. Also, keep in mind that some people do not benefit from immunotherapy. The only way to know is to try it.

What is the cost of Immunotherapy? 

This cost depends on several factors, including the type of allergy shots you receive. Feel free to ask your doctor how much immunotherapy will cost you per week and per year. Also, you may want to contact your medical insurance carrier and ask about the amount of reimbursement you may receive for immunotherapy or the out-of-pocket expense you may be responsible for receiving the immunotherapy. 

What to expect from Immunotherapy? 

If immunotherapy is successful, you will probably have fewer (and less severe) reactions to the substances that cause your allergies or asthma to flare up. Allergy shots are not a cure, but they can improve your quality of life (see “Points to remember about immunotherapy”). You may also find you need less medicine than before to control your allergies and asthma.

 Points to remember about immunotherapy: 

• If you need to get your shots regularly for immunotherapy to work, be sure to not miss an appointment. 
• You may develop a severe reaction to an allergy shot. If this takes place outside immunotherapy. your doctor’s office, let your doctor know immediately.
• Immunotherapy is not a quick fix. You may need to receive for several years. 
• Costs vary. Talk to your doctor about this, and check with your insurance carrier about coverage.
• There are no guarantees. Immunotherapy works very well for most people, it may not help others at all.
• Immunotherapy is not a cure. It may make your allergies or asthma better, but it probably won’t make them go away entirely.

The videos below were designed to provide educational information and to give you practical information about the process of starting immunotherapy. For additional information, please refer to your blue immunotherapy folder which was provided at the time of your visit. We hope you enjoy this video and feel free to contact our office if you should have any further questions. Thank you.