Allergy Shots vs. Allergy Drops: Which one is right for me?

April showers bring May flowers, and in Maryland, allergy season. The sudden switch from chilly winters to warm summers often presents a problem for allergy sufferers. Immunotherapy may help some appropriately selected patients manage allergy symptoms over time. Your provider will discuss the potential benefits, risks, and expectations for your plan.

What are Allergies?

The human body is efficient at protecting itself using its natural defense mechanism, the immune system. The immune system works to fight off any substance that may cause the body harm or infections. Sometimes, the immune system attacks harmless substances; these substances are allergens.

Common Allergens Include:

●    Pet Dander: flecks of skin that shed from animals

●    Dust Mites: microscopic organisms that are allergenic themselves, and can also leave behind skin that can trigger allergies

●    Pollen: small spores that are light enough to travel through the air

●    Mold: fungus that grows on organic material

●    Seasonal Allergies: Environmental factors bring allergens from surrounding areas.

Common Allergy Symptoms:

●    Congestion

●    Headaches

●    Itchy eyes

●    Runny nose

●    Difficulty breathing

●    Skin rash

Allergy sufferers often find themselves overwhelmed with attempts to mask allergy symptoms. Here is what immunotherapy involves:

How Immunotherapy Works

Immunotherapy is a treatment plan customized specifically for you and your needs. The first step is completing in-depth allergy testing to determine which allergens trigger your immune system’s response. Once testing is complete, the results from your allergy test are paired with a look at your symptoms and family history to formulate a treatment solution catering to your exact needs. Immunotherapy targets the underlying cause of your allergies. Your provider will discuss the potential benefits, risks, and expectations for your plan.

Immunotherapy Includes:

●    Working to retrain the body’s immune system response to allergens

●    A possible reduction in allergy symptoms for some patients

●    Individualized treatment goals discussed with your provider

●    A treatment plan customized for your goals and needs.

Immunotherapy Options:

Your wants and needs will determine which type of immunotherapy may be appropriate for you. We understand that every patient has unique needs, and that’s why we offer options.

Allergy Shots:

Allergy shots are a form of subcutaneous immunotherapy for allergies. The process starts with injecting a small amount of allergens beneath the skin to slowly retrain your immune system. Your provider will discuss the potential benefits, risks, and expectations for your plan. Allergy shots may not be suitable for everyone.

Allergy Drops:

Allergy drops are a form of sublingual immunotherapy for allergies. Allergy drops are delivered through a different method. Instead of injecting the treatment under the skin, drops of liquid are placed under the tongue on a daily schedule.

Both subcutaneous and sublingual immunotherapy treatment plans aim to retrain the immune system to reduce allergy symptoms.

I need more info about allergy testing!

Are Allergy drops for me?

Sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drops) may be appropriate for some patients. Allergy drops provide a simple delivery method with fewer barriers to following a daily schedule.

Reasons why allergy drops may be right for you:

●    You are interested in a daily at-home option

●    You have a busy schedule

●    You don’t like getting shots

●    You are concerned about an allergic reaction to a shot

●    You can follow a daily treatment schedule at your convenience

●    You are over six years old

●    You want to discuss a convenient allergy treatment option with your provider

Considerations for Allergy Drops

Affordable

●    Reduced dependence on over-the-counter medications

●    Visit office a few times a year rather than a few times a month

●    Less Transportation Costs

Treatment Considerations

●    A different risk profile than injections, which your provider can explain

●    An established form of immunotherapy

●    Response times vary from patient to patient

●     Your provider will review potential side effects with you

Convenient

●    You manage the treatment time and location

●    Self-administered treatment that is customized for you

●    Patient-centered treatment designed around your schedule

●    Fewer missed hours of work or school

●    Less time stuck in traffic or waiting in the office

●    More time for yourself

It’s Your Choice

Allergies don’t have to control your life! At Frederick Breathe Free we are determined to help you develop a unique treatment that works for your needs.

Schedule an Appointment Today!

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