Myths and Facts About Allergy Shots
More than 100 million people suffer from various types of allergies every year. Allergies can be a daily struggle, impacting everything from sleep quality to overall well-being. Medications offer temporary relief, but allergy shots, or immunotherapy, can be an effective solution to address the root cause.
Here at Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center, we offer allergy testing and immunotherapy as a treatment when appropriate. Like any medical treatment, however, allergy shots come with their fair share of myths and facts that deserve clarification.
Myth 1: Allergy shots are a quick fix
FACT: Allergy shots aren’t an instant solution. They gradually desensitize your immune system to specific allergens. We put together a plan for you to come in for a series of injections over several months. Usually, you see a noticeable difference after a year. It's a long-term commitment that yields lasting results rather than a quick fix.
Myth 2: Allergy shots are painful
FACT: As many as 2 out of 3 children and 1 in 4 adults have fears about receiving injections. Even if you’re among this population, allergy shots are nothing to be frightened about. The needles are small, and discomfort is minimal.
Most people find that the benefits of reduced allergy symptoms far outweigh the brief discomfort of the shot.
Myth 3: Allergy shots are only for seasonal allergies
FACT: Allergy shots are effective for seasonal allergies like pollen and grass. They’re also useful in treating year-round allergens such as pet dander, dust mites, and mold. We tailor your immunotherapy plan to address a wide range of allergens.
Myth 4: Allergy shots are only for children
FACT: Allergy shots are not a treatment exclusive to children. They’re a viable option for allergy sufferers of all ages.
Myth 5: Allergy shots are risky
FACT: Allergy shots are a safe and well-established treatment. The benefits of allergy shots far outweigh the minimal risks. Serious reactions are rare, especially when the injections come under the supervision of trained professionals in an allergy clinic like Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center.
Myth 6: Allergy shots can cure allergies
FACT: While allergy shots can significantly reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life, they’re not a guaranteed cure. They can, however, provide long-term relief and often lead to a substantial decrease in the severity of symptoms and the need for allergy medications.
Myth 7: Allergy shots are only for severe allergies
FACT: Allergy shots can be helpful for people with any level of allergy severity. Whether your symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe, we customize immunotherapy to address your specific allergens and ease your symptoms.
Allergy shots are a reliable and effective treatment for many people who struggle with persistent allergies.
Call Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center at our nearest office today or send us a message here on our website to book your visit. We have offices in Kingsport and Johnson City, Tennessee, and Abingdon, Virginia.