Getting Allergy Shots for Hay Fever

Do you have hay fever that doesn't seem to go away? You may have already tried all sorts of cure but nothing seems to work and you're already feeling frustrated. If this is your case, then you may want to try immunotherapy. This is a process which involves making up a mixture of your allergens and injecting increasing doses into your body on a weekly basis to make the allergy go away.

Each shot will contain enough amount of allergen to stimulate your immune system although not to the extent of producing symptoms. A shot like this is best given to those who have allergic rhinitis due to the following:

• Pollen

• Dust mites

• Pet dander

• Mold

• Insect stings

• Some drugs

• Allergy-induced asthma

These shots are given regularly and one complete treatment typically lasts between 3 and 5 years. Now, you may think that it's a long period; however, good results await those who endure because the expected effects can last a lifetime.

Basically, the procedure works like how a vaccine does. Your body is presented with small amount of what causes your allergies. Then, your immune system learns how to deal with the allergens appropriately. The dosage is increased in a gradual manner to desensitize your immune system until the symptoms disappear completely. This procedure has a relatively high rate of success. More than 80% of those who tried it experienced significant improvement.

Now, you may be wondering who the best candidates for these injections are and whether you're one of them. Here is a simple guideline that can help:

• If you have tried all sorts of treatments including medications or you are suffering from side effects, you may want to try getting these shots.

• If you have been suffering from allergic rhinitis for a long time and already feeling tired of it.

• If you detest taking medications or they are too costly for you, this procedure may be sensible. Besides, there are some insurance plans which can help cover the cost of this treatment so you can save a lot.

• If it's impossible or difficult to avoid your allergens because your job or routine requires you to get in contact with them regularly.

Now some of the precautions you need to know are these: Shots should never be given to children under two years old. Also, if you are pregnant or lactating, getting these shots is not advisable. However, if you were already getting them before you conceived, then the doctor may suggest that you continue with the procedure.

Shots for hay fever are generally safe as long as given properly. However, they also have potential serious side effects. This is because the course of treatment involves the exposure to the substances you are allergic to. This is why it's crucial to work with a highly qualified allergist when going through this treatment. In case a serious reaction to the allergy shots happens, he or she should have all the necessary medications and equipment to countermeasure the bad effect.