Allergy symptoms occur when the immune system reacts to an allergen that has entered the body by producing specific antibodies. These antibodies can recognize the same allergic substance if it enters the body again, causing itchy, watery eyes and nasal and sinus congestion.
Allergy shots can help you build a tolerance to your environmental allergen. But exactly how long do allergy shots last?
Allergy shots last about one month and work in two phases
Allergy shots work like a vaccine: specific amounts of natural allergen extracts are injected into the arm, which causes the body to produce antibodies that block allergic symptoms over time. Also known as allergen immunotherapy, allergy shots are the only treatment currently available that strengthens the immune system to provide lasting relief while preventing new allergies and asthma.
These injections help your body build its natural resistance to the effects of:
- Tree, grass, and weed pollen
- Dust mites
- Mold spores
- Animal dander
- Insect venom
There are two phases to the allergy shot treatment. The build-up phase involves injections containing increasing amounts of the allergens up to twice weekly. The length of this phase is determined by how often the injections are received but generally ranges from three to six months.
Once the effective dose is reached, the maintenance phase begins. This depends on your level of allergen sensitivity and response to the build-up phase. During the maintenance phase, there will be more extended periods between treatments, ranging from two to four weeks.
While you may notice a decrease in symptoms during the build-up phase, it may take up to twelve months on the maintenance dose to see an improvement. After this point, maintenance treatment is generally continued for three to five years.
Allergy shots are highly effective when properly administered
When administered by a highly trained professional, allergy shots are clinically proven to:
- Decrease allergy symptoms and medication use
- Prevent new allergies and asthma in children
- Promote long-lasting relief of allergy symptoms even after treatment is stopped
Additionally, allergy shots have been praised as being a cost-effective option to reduce overall healthcare expenses, including costs from:
- Prescription medicine use
- Office visits
- Hospitalizations
- Missed work or school
Allergy shots are especially effective in children because treatment helps prevent the development of new allergies and asthma. They are typically given to children five years or older but may occasionally be given earlier.
About South Florida ENT Associates
SFENTA is one of South Florida’s top-rated providers of allergy care. When you visit our offices, you’ll find the latest in ENT care and a network of specialists unlike any other. Our staff and ENT specialists in Miami and surrounding cities have worked with patients for over three decades to help them achieve long-term relief. We’ve made it our goal to provide each patient with the following:
- Patient-centered care
- Finding long-term relief instead of short-term solutions
- A comprehensive network of highly trained physicians
- Over thirty locations across South Florida, so you can rest easy knowing that we’re always nearby
