Allergy Shots for Kids
Suffering from allergies can be miserable, for both children and adults. Sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and congestion are just some of the symptoms that can make it difficult to enjoy everyday activities. While there are several medications available to help alleviate allergy symptoms, some people may benefit from allergy treatments, like allergy shots for kids.
But how does it work, and can it really help reduce my kid’s allergy symptoms?
Allergy treatments involve regular injections of allergens over a period of time. The goal of allergy shots is to help your immune system become less sensitive to the allergen, thereby reducing allergy symptoms.
During treatment, a doctor or allergist will first identify the specific allergens that trigger your symptoms. Then, a customized treatment plan is developed based on the specific allergens that affect you. Allergy shots typically start with a low dose of the allergen and gradually increase over time.
The way allergy shots work is by exposing your immune system to the allergen in a controlled and increasing amount. Over time, your immune system will develop a tolerance to the allergen and produce fewer antibodies that cause allergy symptoms. This process is called desensitization.
Allergy shots for kids are typically given once or twice a week during the build-up phase, which can last anywhere from three to six months. Once the maximum dose is reached, the maintenance phase begins, and allergy shots are given less frequently, usually every two to four weeks. The maintenance phase can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on the individual.
It’s important to note that allergy treatment is not a quick fix for allergy symptoms. It can take several months to see an improvement in symptoms, and the full benefit of the treatment may not be apparent until several years after starting allergy shots. However, many people who undergo treatment report a significant reduction in allergy symptoms and an improvement in their quality of life.
Allergy treatments are generally safe, but there is a risk of allergic reactions to the shots. For this reason, allergy shots are given under the supervision of a doctor or allergist who is trained to recognize and treat allergic reactions.
Is your child experiencing allergy symptoms that seem severe or persistent? Take the allergy assessment and start their journey of allergy relief.
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Sources:
United Allergy Services – https://unitedallergyservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Allergen-Specific-IT-for-Treatment-of-AR-and-Asthma.pdf
HelpMommy – https://helpmommy.com/how-do-allergy-shots-work-to-decrease-allergy-symptoms/
