Are you tired of constant sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose? Do seasonal allergies or year-round sensitivities keep you from enjoying life to the fullest? At Roanoke Valley ENT & Allergy, we understand the impact allergies can have on your daily life. That’s why we offer advanced treatment options like allergy immunotherapy to help you find long-term relief.
What is Allergy Immunotherapy?
Allergy immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), is a treatment designed to gradually desensitize your body to specific allergens. Instead of just treating the symptoms, immunotherapy targets the root cause of your allergies, helping you build tolerance over time.
How Does Allergy Immunotherapy Work?
The process involves introducing small, controlled doses of allergens to your system. Initially, these doses are very low, gradually increasing over time. This repeated exposure helps your immune system become less reactive to these substances. Think of it as retraining your body to recognize allergens as harmless, reducing the allergic response.
There are two main methods of immunotherapy:
- Allergy Shots (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy): Involves regular injections of allergenic extracts.
- Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): Uses tablets or drops placed under the tongue.
Benefits of Allergy Immunotherapy
Choosing immunotherapy at Roanoke Valley ENT & Allergy offers several significant benefits:
- Long-Term Relief: Unlike medications that only provide temporary relief, immunotherapy can lead to lasting desensitization and reduced allergy symptoms.
- Reduced Medication Use: As your tolerance to allergens increases, you may find yourself relying less on antihistamines and other allergy medications.
- Improved Quality of Life: By minimizing allergy symptoms, you can enjoy outdoor activities, better sleep, and an overall improved quality of life.
- Prevention of New Allergies: Immunotherapy may also prevent the development of new allergies.
What to Expect During Allergy Immunotherapy at Roanoke Valley ENT & Allergy
At Roanoke Valley ENT & Allergy, our experienced team, which you can meet here, will guide you through every step of the immunotherapy process. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Consultation and Allergy Testing: We’ll start with a comprehensive evaluation to identify your specific allergens.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your allergy test results, we’ll develop a customized immunotherapy plan tailored to your needs.
- Regular Administration: You’ll receive either allergy shots at our office or sublingual immunotherapy to administer at home.
- Monitoring and Adjustments: We’ll closely monitor your progress and adjust the dosage as needed to ensure optimal results.
Common Questions About Allergy Immunotherapy
How long does immunotherapy take to work?
Most patients start to experience noticeable improvements within a few months of starting immunotherapy. However, it can take up to a year or longer to achieve maximum benefit.
Is immunotherapy safe?
Immunotherapy is generally safe, but like any medical treatment, there are potential risks. Common side effects include mild redness or swelling at the injection site (for allergy shots) or itching under the tongue (for SLIT). Serious reactions are rare but can be managed with prompt medical attention.
Who is a good candidate for immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is suitable for children and adults with allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, and stinging insect allergies. To determine if you are a good candidate, it’s best to consult with our allergy specialists.
Take the First Step Towards Allergy Relief
Don’t let allergies control your life any longer. Explore our comprehensive allergy treatment options and discover how immunotherapy at Roanoke Valley ENT & Allergy can help you achieve lasting relief. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized care and effective solutions to manage your allergies.
Ready to breathe easier and live life to the fullest? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you overcome your allergies. You can also learn more about our team here.