Allergy Shots

What are Allergy Shots?

Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy SCIT), a form of immunotherapy, are a medical treatment that helps reduce allergic reactions. They work by introducing small amounts of allergens (substances that trigger allergies) into your body over time. This exposure helps your immune system become less sensitive to these allergens, ultimately reducing or eliminating your allergic symptoms.

Procedure and Process

Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) has two main phases: build-up and maintenance. During the build-up phase, your allergist administers injections of allergens in increasing doses over several months until your body's immune system builds a tolerance to them. This phase of the allergy shots schedule typically involves receiving shots once or twice a week.

Once you have reached the target dose, you will enter the maintenance phase. During this phase, the time between shots gradually increases from two to four weeks and eventually to monthly or even longer intervals. The maintenance phase may last several years, depending on the severity of your allergies and your response to treatment.

Throughout the treatment, your allergist will monitor you closely for any adverse reactions to the shots. If you experience itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, your allergist may adjust your dose or recommend other treatments. It's important to note that allergy shots are not a quick fix and require time and effort.

Conditions Treated

Allergy shots are ideal for treating a wide range of allergies, including seasonal allergies like pollen and year-round allergies like dust mites, pet dander, and mold. They can also be effective in treating allergic asthma and insect sting allergies. Our board-certified allergist will determine the specific allergens causing your allergic reactions and customize your allergy treatment plan accordingly.

Safety and Side Effects

Allergy shots, like any allergy treatment, have possible adverse effects. The typical systemic reaction to an allergy shot includes redness, swelling, and itching at the injection site. These symptoms usually go away on their own within a few hours. In rare cases, allergy shots can cause more severe reactions like anaphylaxis. However, the risk of anaphylaxis is low, and our allergist will monitor you closely during the treatment to ensure your safety.

Consultation and Assessment

You can set up an appointment that works for you on our website. During the consultation, our allergist, Dr. Freiler will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and continue with allergy testing. Accurate allergy testing determines which allergens are causing your symptoms. Based on the results, our allergist will develop a personalized treatment plan that includes the specific allergens and dosages for immunotherapy. 

They will also explain the benefits and potential risks of allergy shots and answer all of your questions. Finally, our allergy expert will monitor your progress throughout the treatment to ensure its effectiveness and safety.

Experience the Life-Changing Effects of Allergy Shots

Trust the experts at Premier Allergy of Texas to provide the care and expertise you need. Your path to allergy freedom begins with us! Request an appointment that suits your schedule today.