Allergy care services
Subcutaneous Immunotherapy
Environmental Allergy Testing
How do allergy shots work?
IT stimulates a transformation in the body’s immune cells (T cells) from being promoters of allergic reaction to cells that counter the allergic inflammatory process. In turn, this leads to a decrease in the formation of allergen-specific IgE antibodies. These IgE antibodies are key players in allergic reactions. For long-term benefits, a recommended course of allergen IT should be 3-5 years.
Allergy shots are a form of allergen immunotherapy (IT), designed to gradually increase your tolerance to the environmental allergens that you have an allergic sensitivity to through subcutaneous injection. Every IT treatment plan is personalized based on the results of your allergy test and your specific allergen triggers.
What can I do to make my allergy shot treatment a success?
IT has an 85% success rate when the treatment course is followed. Your provider is committed to helping you achieve the best possible results from IT; however, the only person who can truly make your IT a success is you. Your commitment to taking your IT injections on schedule and for the duration of your treatment is the key to your treatment success.
Once I start immunotherapy (IT), when will I start feeling better?
Although individual experiences may vary, most people notice reduced allergy symptoms within 6-12 months after starting IT injections. After 3 years of consistent IT treatment, most people experience fewer allergy symptoms and even other permanent benefits such as a decreased risk of developing allergic asthma and new allergies.
Individual experiences may vary; you should discuss with your healthcare provider when IT discontinuation is best for you.
Why does immunotherapy take time?
The IT protocol is designed to administer small, but increasing, doses of allergens over a specific course of time. The first 6 months of subcutaneous treatment is intended to safely expose the body to an increasing concentration of allergens. During this time, your body’s histamine production will decrease, which will provide you with some allergy relief. However, it takes approximately 6 to 12 months or more of IT treatment for your T cells to transform and your IgE levels to decrease, allowing you to experience a significant decrease in your allergy symptoms.
FAQs:
How long does the environmental allergy test take?
The test takes approximately 30 minutes to administer and 15 minutes to register the results - so you don’t have to wait long to learn the possible cause of your allergies.
Who can be tested?
Most adults and children two years and older can be safely tested. A provider will rule out patients with contraindicated medical conditions. Talk to you healthcare provider about any medical concerns you may have.
Which environmental allergens will i be tested for?
You will be tested for 54 of the most regionally relevant allergens in your area, including: dust mites, pet dander, cockroach, mice, trees, grasses, weeds and molds. You will not be tested for venom or stinging insect related allergies.
are the allergy test and treatment covered by insurance?
Yes, most insurance plan cover allergy testing and subcutaneous (shots) treatment, subject to deductible and copay. Sublingual (drops) treatment may be an additional, out-of-pocket cost. Your insurance benefits and coverage will be discussed prior to testing.
Is the allergy test painful?
The allergy test is not painful. Is is conducted using a minimally invasive multi-headed percutaneous test device that gently pricks or abrades the skin’s surface. After the test is performed, a positive test may appear on the skin surface as a raised bump resembling a mosquito bite.