Allergy shots, or allergen immunotherapy, are an effective way of treating environmental and seasonal allergies. By directly addressing your immune system, allergy shots improve your tolerance to allergens such as pollen, dust, molds, insect venom, and pet dander. Allergy shots may provide long-term relief from symptoms and decrease your need for oral medications.
What Makes Allergy Shots Work?
Every allergy shot contains a small dose of something you are allergic to, such as pollen, dust, or mold. This tiny amount is not enough to trigger an allergic reaction, but it will elicit an immune response. As the dose of the allergen is increased, your immune system builds up a tolerance to it. This leads to decreased symptoms and a reduced need for medications. Allergy shots have also been shown to prevent new allergies from developing.