What to Expect for Your Allergy Shot Treatments

If you’ve been recently diagnosed with allergies and are unable to control them with over-the-counter medications, allergy shots (immunotherapy) are the only treatment available that actually builds a natural resistance to allergens instead of simply masking symptoms.

Starting Allergy Shot Treatments

Allergy shots are a great option for patients with extreme, unmanaged allergies. Once you’ve decided to start allergy shot treatment, you may be concerned about what will happen at your appointments. Your Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia allergist will individually tailor your treatment plan to your needs and will inject a small amount of saline mixed with your allergen under your skin. Over time, your body begins to naturally resist the effects of your allergen.

Treatment Timeline

More than 85% of patients treated with the recommended doses of allergy shots noticed a marked improvement in their allergy symptoms. But how often should you have allergy shots, and how long will it take before you see an improvement in your allergies?

The Build Up Phase

During the build up phase, the strength of your allergy shots is gradually increased to reach a target dose referred to as the maintenance dose. Appointments typically happen 1 to 2 times per week initially for 3 to 6 months.

The Maintenance Phase

After the initial build up phase, most patients remain on monthly maintenance dose allergy shots for a minimum of 3-5 years. It takes a long time to change your immune system in a lasting way. If you do not complete at least the 3-5 year minimum for maintenance dose allergy shots, it is likely your allergies will return. After this point, some patients elect to continue allergy shot treatment, and your board-certified Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia can help you decide what is best for you.

Treat Your Allergies Today at Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia

Speak to one of our Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia board-certified allergy specialists about the possibility of allergy shots to find relief for your allergy symptoms and build immunity against allergens. Our no-wait appointment policy ensures you receive immediate care.

Our team of board-certified allergy specialists will discuss your options and recommend an appropriate course of treatment. Contact us at (770) 459-0620 or visit us online to book your same-day or next-day appointment.