Allergies

Allergy shots are a form of immunotherapy that retrains your immune system. We inject tiny, carefully measured doses of the substances you’re allergic to such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold into your arm on a regular schedule. Over time, your immune system becomes desensitized, so it reacts less strongly when you encounter those allergens in everyday life.

Allergy injections are ideal for patients who:

• Have moderate to severe allergies that interfere with daily life or sleep
• Don’t get enough relief from medications
• Have allergic asthma triggered by environmental allergens
• Want a long-term solution instead of lifelong symptom control
• Are allergic to common triggers like pollen, dust mites, animals, or mold

Adults of any age can benefit from allergy shots. They can even be administered to children as young as five to provide them with relief. 

There are two phases of treatment. In the build-up phase, which lasts three to six months, shots are given one to two times per week with gradually increasing doses. The second phase, known as the maintenance phase, lasts three to five years. Once the target dose has been reached, injections are spaced out to once every two to four weeks. Visits in both phases take only a few minutes, plus a short waiting period afterward to monitor for reactions.

Some people notice improvement within a few months of starting allergy shots, but most see significant relief after six to 12 months. The real benefit comes with consistency over several years, many patients achieve long-term or even permanent improvement.

Yes. When given in a medical setting, allergy shots are very safe. The most common side effect is mild redness or swelling at the injection site. Rarely, a more serious allergic reaction can occur, which is why we monitor you for about 20 to 30 minutes after each shot.

Medications temporarily block your body’s response to allergens, so symptoms come right back if you stop taking them. Allergy shots work at a deeper level, training your immune system to tolerate allergens so you no longer react as strongly or at all.

• Long-Term Relief: Many patients remain symptom-free for years after completing treatment.

• Less Medication: Most people no longer need to rely on daily pills or sprays.

• Better Asthma Control: For allergic asthma, shots can reduce attacks and improve breathing.

• Possible Prevention: In some cases, shots may prevent new allergies from developing, especially in children.

Yes. Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) uses tablets that dissolve under the tongue. It’s available for certain allergens like grass, ragweed, and dust mites. However, shots remain the most comprehensive option for multiple allergies.

Absolutely. Skin or blood testing allows us to pinpoint your triggers and create a customized injection formula. Without this step, treatment wouldn’t be as effective.

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover allergy testing and injections, but coverage details can vary. My office always helps patients check before starting.