Allergy shots 101

A blog post by Dr. Tara Federly (Allergist at Cornerstone Pediatrics and Family Allergy)

Ragweed season is just around the corner. For some Iowans constant congestion, sneezing, itching and fatigue are putting a damper on their day-to-day lives. Many have tried over-the-counter allergy medicines with no long-term success. Fortunately, one of the most effective treatments is available from your local allergist: allergy shots.

Allergy shots work by regularly exposing your body to small amounts of allergens to develop immunity over time. Adults and children ages 5 and up can receive allergy shots for both indoor and outdoor allergies. For treatment to be most effective, a board-certified allergist will formulate a specific plan that involves receiving multiple allergy shots in a medical clinic over a period of time. Many will notice benefit within the first year of starting allergy shots and long-term benefit can be achieved by continuing allergy shots for three to five years. Studies show that 85% of people who suffer from allergies have improvement with allergy shots. Allergy shots can decrease nasal and eye symptoms, decrease dependence on allergy medicines and for some improve allergic asthma, eczema and mental health.

If you suffer from allergies, make an appointment with Cornerstone Pediatrics and Family Allergy to learn more about this life-changing treatment option.