If you’re considering allergy immunotherapy, it’s natural to have questions about what treatment will feel like and how your body may respond.
Whether you receive allergy shots, drops or tablets, treatment involves carefully controlled exposure to specific allergens. Over time, these small doses can help your body build tolerance and may reduce the severity of your allergic reactions.
Because immunotherapy introduces substances your body recognizes as allergens, some reactions are possible. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable throughout treatment.
Possible Reactions
Most reactions to allergy immunotherapy are mild and can be managed with medication. Symptoms may include:
- Itching
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Hives
- Shortness of breath
In rare cases, immunotherapy can cause anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Signs may include:
- A weak or rapid pulse
- A sudden drop in blood pressure
- Loss of consciousness
- Significant swelling
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, use your prescribed epinephrine injector,[1] such as an EpiPen®, and seek medical care immediately.
Why Observation Matters
After receiving an allergy shot, you’ll typically remain at our clinic for an observation period of at least 30 minutes. This gives our team an opportunity to monitor you for signs of a reaction and provide prompt treatment if one occurs.
The process is slightly different for allergy drops or tablets. We may ask you to take your first doses in the office so we can monitor your response. Once we’ve determined that you’re unlikely to experience a serious reaction, you can continue the treatment at home as directed.
Following these safety guidelines is an important part of making immunotherapy a comfortable and controlled experience.
When To Contact Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy
We encourage you to reach out to our team if you have questions or concerns at any point during treatment. You should contact our clinic if:
- You experience a severe or persistent reaction
- Your allergy symptoms aren’t improving as expected
- Your symptoms get worse during treatment
- You’re concerned about a reaction or another aspect of your treatment plan
Allergy immunotherapy takes time, but it can provide lasting relief that ensures you go through the Hampton allergy season more comfortably. With appropriate monitoring and communication with your allergist, you can move through treatment with confidence.
If you have any questions about your immunotherapy experience, contact Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy today.
[1] Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Epinephrine injection, autoinjector. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20260-epinephrine-injection-autoinjector