How quickly do allergy shots start to work?
It usually takes at least 6 - 12 months on allergy shots before you start feeling better and notice relief of your symptoms; however, there are some patients who report relief of symptoms sooner. Because immunotherapy is a way of vaccinating you, it may take this long for your body to develop a stronger tolerance to your allergens.

How long will I have to take shots?
This is based on individual results. After 3 - 5 years of successful maintenance treatment, you and your physician will make a decision to stop or continue immunotherapy. Some patients experience lasting remission of their allergy symptoms, but others may relapse after stopping shots.

If I have a fever can I get a shot?
No. If your temperature is higher than 100.0û F, you may not get your injection.

If I have any other type of shot, can I get an allergy shot?
No. If you get any other type of injection on the same day you want to get an allergy shot, please notify the lab staff. If you were to have any type of reaction, we would not know what caused it. So, to be safe, save your shot for another day.

If I get allergy shots, do I still have to take other allergy medications?
This will need to be discussed with your doctor. During the build-up phase or certain seasons, the need to take other allergy medications may be necessary.

How many times a week do I have to get allergy shots?
Anywhere between 1 to 3 times a week. Again, this will be based on your individual results. The frequency of your allergy shots will be reviewed with your physician at each check up visit, and may be increased or decreased, depending on your symptoms. The goal is to gradually, over a period of time, wean you off your allergy injections.

What do I need to do if I have a reaction?
Notify one of our clinical staff. They will advise you on how to treat your reaction. Depending on the level of your reaction, there are several alternative ways to decrease these symptoms. We also remind you that because we are giving you what you are most allergic to, some of this is just part of the immunization process.

How long do I have to wait after I get my shot?
It is important that you wait 30 minutes after your shot(s) before leaving the practice facility. On rare occasions, the most severe reaction, anaphylaxis, can occur and does require immediate medical attention. Symptoms include swelling in the throat, wheezing, or a sensation of tightness in the chest, nausea, or dizziness. If such a reaction occurs, our well trained staff and physicians are here to treat you or even save your life.

I have been getting allergy shots for a while, do I still need to wait 30 minutes after I get a shot?
Yes. You can have a reaction regardless of the amount of time you have been on immunotherapy.

My family member or friend is a nurse or EMT. Can he/she give me my shots at home?
No, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, "allergy shots should always be given under the supervision of a physician in a facility equipped with proper staff and equipment to identify and treat adverse reactions to allergy injections."