About a third of Americans over 18 years old have an allergic condition, according to findings published in the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). Allergies can be difficult to manage, especially for patients who have been diagnosed with asthma. Dr. Andrew Smith and Dr. Tara Sarin at Allergy Associates of Utah serving the greater Salt Lake City areas with locations in Murray and West Jordan, UT, can administer allergy shots to help control your allergic reactions and asthma symptoms.

What Are Allergy Shots, and How Do They Work?

Allergy shots contain diluted extracts of substances to which you are allergic to. The shots contain a very small dose of each of your allergens, injecting enough to activate your immune system without causing a full-blown allergic response. As you are regularly exposed to the allergen, your immune system starts to develop a tolerance to it. Over time, allergy shots desensitize your immune system, and your allergic reactions gradually diminish. Most patients experience significant relief from their symptoms here in the Salt Lake Valley, and some even find that their allergies disappear altogether.  It is a form of immunotherapy, and an FDA approved treatment for both environmental and venom allergies.

Benefits of Immunotherapy

Taking allergy medications gives temporary relief from symptoms. Immunotherapy is beneficial because it could be a long-term solution. It helps train your body to react more normally when it comes in contact with what you’re allergic to, such as pollen, dust, pet hair, latex, or certain foods. With each injection, your immune system becomes more tolerant of the allergen as it learns that it is not a threat to the body.

What To Expect at Your Appointment

Before you receive allergy shots, our providers at Allergy Associates of Utah will likely recommend a test (scratch or serum) to determine the allergens that are affecting you. We will then discuss different treatment options including traditional versus an accelerated build up protocol. There are 2 phases of immunotherapy: build-up and maintenance. It is important to continue receiving allergy shots at regular intervals-no less than once a month once you are on maintenance. Missing your shots for periods of time may result in a reduction in your dose to prevent serious allergic reactions. Allergy shots should not be given to someone with uncontrolled asthma.

Freedom From Allergy and Asthma Flare-Ups

Reactions and asthma attacks from allergies don’t have to rule your day. Immunotherapy may be the treatment to help keep them in check. Allergy Associates of Utah is an allergy, asthma, and immunology specialty clinic serving the greater Salt Lake City, Utah area with 2 convenient locations in Murray and West Jordan. Led by specialists Andrew Smith, MD, MS, and Tara Sarin, MD, the practice strives to help people of all ages and backgrounds achieve success. Request an appointment by phone or online at either Allergy Associates of Utah location for expert allergy and immunology care today. Call (801) 263-8700 or (801) 282-8700 today.