Allergy Shots

West Shore ENT & Allergy

Otolaryngology & Allergy Specialists located in Norton Shores, Muskegon, Grand Haven, Fremont, & Ludington, MI

If your allergies make you miserable despite taking medication or you want long-lasting allergy relief, it’s time to consider allergy shots. The doctors at West Shore ENT & Allergy offer allergy testing and allergy shots to significantly relieve and sometimes eliminate allergic reactions. To schedule an appointment, call one of the five offices in Norton Shores, Grand Haven, Fremont, Ludington, and Muskegon, Michigan, or use the online booking system.

Allergy Shots Q & A

How do allergy shots work?

Allergy shots provide a type of treatment called immunotherapy. This therapy targets your immune system to stop it from overreacting to normally harmless substances, the problem causing your allergies.

Each allergy shot injects a small dose of your allergen. The dose triggers your immune system but not enough to cause a full-blown allergy attack.

During your treatment, you’ll receive a series of allergy shots, each with a slightly higher dose. This allows your immune system to develop a tolerance to the allergen. Eventually, your immune system is desensitized and your allergies are significantly reduced or eliminated.

Your doctor at West Shore ENT & Allergy could recommend allergy shots when medications can’t control your symptoms or you want to reduce your use of medications. Immunotherapy is also a good option if you have a severe allergic reaction to insect stings.

What types of allergies are treated with allergy shots?

Allergy shots treat a wide range of allergens, including mold, dust, pet dander, and tree, grass, and ragweed pollen.

Immunotherapy can relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, eye allergies, and insect allergies. Allergy shots are not yet available for food allergies.

How long will I need to get allergy shots?

Before you can start immunotherapy, you’ll first need allergy testing to identify your exact allergens. Then your allergy shots are administered following a regular schedule that goes through two phases:

Buildup phase

During this phase, you’ll receive shots once or twice a week. This ensures your immune system is frequently exposed to higher doses of your allergen. The buildup phase lasts 3-6 months until your doctor at West Shore ENT & Allergy decides you’re ready for the next phase.

Maintenance phase

Throughout the maintenance phase, your dose per shot stays the same, and you’ll get one shot every 2-4 weeks. The maintenance phase continues until you’re getting the best possible relief for your allergies.

Everyone responds to immunotherapy at a different pace, but most patients need to stay in the maintenance phase for 3-5 years.

If you suffer from allergies, and you’d like to learn more about relieving your symptoms with allergy shots, call West Shore ENT & Allergy or book an appointment online.

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