How Allergy Shots Work

Allergy Shots

Allergies can bring forth excessive discomfort and affects up to 10 percent of the U.S. population. During bouts of allergic symptoms, you may find yourself unable to work or having to keep your child home from school while they recover. Medications are available, but may not be ideal for allergies that last for days or even weeks. Furthermore, their side effects can include drowsiness, fatigue, or other unpleasant feelings that leave you to considering what other options may be available. 

Allergy shots may be a good choice. This treatment approach is long-lasting and effective. In fact, the success rate of allergy shots is between 85 and 90 percent. Ideal for people of all ages, allergy shots could be the treatment you are looking for. Prior to getting the injections, you will need to be tested and diagnosed with allergies. As your allergist might explain to you, allergy shots are not for everyone and cannot treat every type of allergy. 

Ideal Candidates for Allergy Shots

  • You have allergy symptoms for 6-8 weeks per year or more. 
  • You don’t like taking allergy medications to alleviate your symptoms. 
  • You’ve had allergies for many years and are tired of living with the symptoms.
  • You are allergic to things that cannot be avoided; such as dust or stinging insects. 
  • You have an allergy to hay fever, dust, pet dander, grasses, molds, stinging insects, and more. 
  • You are not seeking treatment because you are allergic to foods.
  • You do not have severe, life-threatening allergies. 

When you come to your appointment at our clinic, your allergist will review your medical history, allergy symptoms, and test you for allergies. You will learn about the diagnosis and options that may be available. Rest assured,  allergists, like an allergist in Centreville, VA from Black & Kletz Allergy, will provide you with the necessary counseling so you understand how to manage your symptoms. 

The Cost of Allergy Shots

Most health insurance policies cover allergy treatment, which includes tests and shots. Depending on your plan all of your treatment may be covered; others will ask that you provide a copay or deductible. This varies by patient. They can help you to determine what is covered; however, it may be a good idea to call your insurance company to confirm your coverage. If you do not have insurance coverage or the copay is too high, please ask about financing options. 

How Effective Are Allergy Shots

As long as your allergy shots are administered properly, and you don’t miss your appointments, they are between 85 and 90 percent effective. According to clinical studies, allergy shots are able to reduce the symptoms by enhancing the body’s immune system and resistance to the allergens. The treatment also encourages a reduction in medication; therefore, it decreases your total healthcare expenditures. 

Pregnant Women and Allergy Shots

In general, allergists advise pregnant women to avoid allergy shots until they have given birth and have discontinued breastfeeding. There is no research that supports this; however, it is a preventative measure. If you have been undergoing allergy shots and become pregnant, you should consult your OB-GYN and allergist for further advice before continuing the treatment.

How Allergy Shots Work

How Allergy Shots Work