Will Allergy Shots Get Rid of Symptoms Permanently?

Are your allergies making you sick? You start a sneezing tsunami every fall when ragweed and other fall pollens bloom. Maybe you react to mold or dust mites in the winter or have a severe reaction, such as hives to cats or dog dander. 

You’ve been advised to try allergy shots. You’re wondering if they’ll eliminate your symptoms permanently. 

Our board-certified physicians in allergy and immunology with Advanced Allergy & Asthma treat hundreds of patients with severe allergies that warrant allergy shots. 

Why do I have severe allergies? 

Researchers aren’t sure why some people have severe allergies while others only have mild reactions to allergens or none. Genes and the environment both play a role in people with allergies. If close family members have allergies, you’re also more at risk of having them. 

You can develop allergies at any point during your lifetime. We perform extensive skin and blood tests to determine exactly what allergen causes a reaction in your body. 

Are allergy shots safe? 

Allergy shots are very safe. You don’t need to worry about any health complications. 

How long do I need to continue getting allergy shots? 

Allergy shots happen in two phases. In the first phase, called the buildup phase, you come in for an allergy shot twice or thrice weekly for several months. We start with a very low dose of the substance you’re allergic to and increase it gradually until your body can tolerate it. 

The second phase is the maintenance phase. Now you’re on a more manageable once-a-month schedule. For most patients, this phase lasts for 3-5 years. If you have severe allergies that make you sick, you may need allergy shots for over five years. 

When will I notice an improvement in my symptoms? 

Each person reacts differently to an allergy shot protocol. You may feel better quickly, but it may take a few months or longer to see a significant difference in your reaction to the allergen. 

Will allergy shots eliminate my symptoms permanently? 

About two-thirds of patients experience permanent relief from allergy symptoms after 3-5 years of shots. Approximately 80% of patients experience meaningful improvement in allergy symptoms, but you may still have minor symptoms that can be controlled with medication if needed. 

Call Advanced Allergy & Asthma or message us through our online portal today if your allergies impact your quality of life.