What Are Allergy Shots
The origins of allergy shots date back to 1911, and theyre an effective form of treatment for many.
Theyre a form of immunotherapy, which is a way of trying to change or train your immune system so it doesnt react to your allergens or the things youre allergic to, says Jessica Hui, M.D., an allergy and immunology physician at National Jewish Health. Essentially, the goal of allergy shots is to help your body create a lasting tolerance to your allergens.
They’re A Big Time Commitment
Allergy shots are given in two phases. In the “build-up” phase, you’ll need a shot once or twice a week for about three to six months. After that, you’ll enter the “maintenance” phase and receive them less oftenabout once or twice a month, for several years, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology ,
Sticking to this schedule is important, for the shots’ effectiveness and to reduce your chances of having a bad reaction. “For some people it’s absolutely worth it, but some people just don’t have that time to spare,” Dr. Dziadzio said. And while the shots themselves only take a minute, you probably will have to wait those 30 minutes in your healthcare provider’s office after each one.
What Are The Reactions
When you get allergy shots, there are some common side effects you may experience. Many patients develop a small hive or bump at the injection site. This bump may look like a mosquito bite or swell and become red. It can happen immediately after your allergy shot or a few hours later. It is a normal reaction and nothing to worry about.
You may also experience a slight worsening of your allergy symptoms, such as:
- Nasal congestion
If anaphylaxis goes on for too long, the body cant respond to the massive allergic response and goes into anaphylactic shock. Once this shock sets in, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary. Patients experiencing anaphylactic shock may struggle to breathe or feel weak. They may be dizzy, confused, or even lose consciousness. It is life-threatening.
In the rare occurrences when anaphylaxis develops, it does so within 30 minutes of receiving allergy shots, which is why you must stay for monitoring after your injections.
Read Also: How Long Does Pink Eye From Allergies Last
Why Are Allergy Shots Used
An allergy is when the body’s immune system overreacts to a usually harmless substance. Things that cause allergic reactions are called allergens. Common allergens include dust mites, molds, pollen, pets with fur or feathers, stinging insects, and foods.
The body reacts to the allergen by releasing chemicals, one of which is histamine. This release can cause symptoms such as wheezing, trouble breathing, coughing, a stuffy nose, and more. Some allergic reactions can be serious.
The best way to prevent or control allergy symptoms is to avoid allergens. Allergists look for causes of an allergic reaction with skin tests and blood tests. Based on the test results, they can recommend treatments, including medicines and ways to avoid allergens.
If these treatments don’t help, the allergist might recommend allergy shots.
Find The Right Allergy Treatment For You
Although allergy shots are highly effective, they are not the right option for everyone. Luckily, there is another form of immunotherapy that doesnt require long waits at the doctors office, pricks in the arm, or the risk of a life-threatening allergic reaction.
Sublingual immunotherapy, also called allergy drops, uses the same process of exposing your immune system to allergens so that it develops a tolerance over time. Instead of injecting the allergens, theyre self-administered under the tongue through allergy drops.
Whats more, allergy drops do not require a visit to the allergists. Because they are safer than allergy shots, allergy drops dont require monitoring for side effects, and you can take them from the comfort of home without the risk of anaphylaxis.
Also Check: What Are The Symptoms Of Cashew Nut Allergy
Do Allergy Shots Make You Tired
Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers â it’s anonymous and free!
Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers â it’s anonymous and free!
HealthTap doctors are based in the U.S., board certified, and available by text or video.
Allergy Shots Side Effects For Adults
Allergy shot side effects or reactions are usually minimal and easy to manage. Because youre being injected with allergens sometimes your body can overreact.
For this reason its important to always carry an Epi-Pen with you to the doctor, in your car, to work/school. Ill explain the side effects and reactions Ive experienced during my 5 years of allergy shots.
Read Also: Can Allergies Last For Months
Risks And Side Effects Of Allergy Shots
Just like many medical treatments, allergy shots do come with some risks and side effects, including skin irritation like itching, fatigue and allergy symptoms right after receiving the shot. Anaphylaxis, which is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction, may also occur, making it important for shots to be performed in a doctors office under the supervision of a trained physician.
Most of the serious reactions happen within 30 minutes of the injection, so it is recommended to wait 30 minutes at the doctors office before leaving, says Dr. Hui. Many doctors also prescribe an EpiPen for people who are on allergy shots.
Research indicates that allergy shots do not cause infection. In one study, researchers took a look at more than 3,000 patient records from two large hospitals in MassachusettsBalekian DS, Banerji A, Blumenthal KG ., Camargo CA, Long. Allergen immunotherapy: No evidence of infectious risk. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. 2016 137:1887-1888. . These patients received over 130,000 shots over 10 years. During this period, no skin or soft tissue infections or systemic infections were cited. As a result, researchers concluded that additional restrictions on allergy shots arent necessary.
They Contain Allergens So Reactions Can Happen
Allergy shots work by exposing patients to tiny amounts of whatever it is they’re allergic to. The amount of allergen in each injection increases gradually over time so the body can build up a tolerance.
“It changes the person’s immune system from having a bad reaction to pretty much ignoring the allergen,” Dr. Dziadzio said. “For some people, it decreases their allergies enough so they can come off medicine entirely, and for some it helps their medicines be more effective.”
But because allergens are involved, reactions to the shots themselves are possible. These can range from swelling and itching at the injection site to sneezing and a runny nose, to, in rare cases, anaphylactic shock, which is severe and could be life-threatening. That’s why it’s recommended that patients stay at their healthcare provider’s office for 30 minutes after each shot so they can be monitored and treated for reactions if they do occur, according to MedlinePlus.
Read Also: What Are Common Symptoms Of Peanut Allergies
Worsening Of Allergy Symptoms For 2 Days After Shot
After my shots I almost always experience a slight worsening in allergy symptoms for 2 days after the shot.
In my opinion this should be expected, right? Youre being injected with allergens and your body is reacting. For 2 days after the shot I usually take an extra anti-histamine.
My eczema always gets a little red and improves a few days after shots.
Fatigue For 2 Days After Shot
Fatigue was one of my main allergy symptoms so its not a surprise that Im easily worn out after a shot. I think my immune system goes into overdrive when I receive the shot and makes me tired.
The fatigue is manageable but Ive learned to not schedule my shot around important work events, presentations, or meetings.
I asked my allergists about this side effect and they didnt say it was common, however, its important to understand that people experience different allergy symptoms and reactions to allergy shots.
Once I reached maintenance dose, my fatigue became less problematic. Needless to say, I have much more energy now!
Recommended Reading: How To Treat Severe Allergies
All About Allergy Fatigue
When we think about our allergy symptoms we typically think of the “normal” symptoms – Runny nose, cough, itchy eyes. Allergy fatigue is the lurking symptom that we seem to forget about or not realize, even though it takes a big toll on our bodies. Individuals with allergies are 76% more likely to feel unrested during the day.
What Are The Side Effects Of Allergy Shots
The side effects of allergy shots are usually minimal. Most commonly, patients will feel slight itching or swelling at the site of the injection. Other people may experience more severe allergy symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, nasal congestion, and hives. While rare, a person can have a serious reaction, like anaphylaxis, typically within 30 minutes after the shot is given. Therefore, waiting at an allergy office is required after an allergy shot is given. It is important for trained allergy staff to monitor patients after their allergy shots to ensure no reaction occurs.
Also Check: Can Dirty Air Ducts Cause Allergies
Can Allergies Make You Tired How To Beat Allergy Fatigue
Its that time of year againspring means leaves returning to trees and blooming flowers. Unfortunately for allergy sufferers, it also means the reemergence of pollen, weeds, mold spores, and other common seasonal allergens.
Youre probably familiar with common allergy symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes, but can allergies make you tired, too?
The short answer is yes, although it varies from person to person. Some people may just feel a bit sleepier than usual in the afternoon, while others experience fatigue thats so debilitating that it keeps them from being able to work or engage in everyday activities and hobbies.
Why do allergies make us tired, and is it possible to beat the fatigue? Florida Medical Clinic immunologist Dr. Daniel Reichmuth answers your questions about allergy fatigue and provides tips on how to alleviate your symptoms and start feeling more awake and alert.
What Is Immunotherapy Is It The Same As Allergy Shots
Immunotherapy refers to treatment and management plans that train the immune system to act differently than it normally would. For example, treating your immune system not to react to allergens.
There are multiple types of immunotherapy used for allergies. Subcutaneous immunotherapy refers to immunotherapy that is done under the skin, via a shot. Subcutaneous immunotherapy, then, is another term for allergy shots. SCIT is a long-term treatment designed to reduce the severity of symptoms for allergy sufferers. For some, their allergies may even stop completely. This type of immunotherapy is considered the gold standard for allergy treatment.
Read Also: Do Air Filters Help With Allergies
Limit Your Exposure To Allergens
Once you know which allergens are causing your symptoms, you can reduce your exposure to them. For example, if youre allergic to pollen, you can try to stay indoors on days when pollen counts are high.
You can check online with your local weather station to find your local pollen report. You should try to keep your windows closed if you have air-conditioning. If you do spend time outside, its important to bathe and change your clothing as soon as you come inside.
Benefits Of Allergy Immunotherapy
When oral medication and/or avoidance of allergens fail to control a patients allergic reaction, allergy, shots also known as immunotherapy or allergy desensitization therapy, may be the solution. There are several benefits for patients who get allergy shots and they include:
- Some people dont tolerate oral medications well. These patients might do better with allergy shots so long as needles and injections do not bother the individual. Though shots are taken on a weekly schedule that becomes monthly, after three to five years the shots may be ended when the response is permanent.
- While the cost of allergy shots is more expensive than oral over-the-counter medication, in the long run, allergy shots are less expensive than oral medications as patients do not need shots forever.
- Allergy medications taken by mouth treat the symptoms of allergies, but, allergy shots treat the causes of allergic responses. When immunotherapy is successful, patients enjoy a complete cure as the shots treat the underlying causes of allergies rather than the symptoms.
Also Check: Why Are Food Allergies On The Rise
So What Is Allergy Fatigue
- Allergy fatigue is a common symptom of allergies, consisting of persistent tiredness or a general lazy feeling. This allergy symptom can be caused by a biochemically based fatigue that can also alter your sleep quality.
- It can be difficult to figure out whether allergy fatigue is directly from allergies or just life in general. To distinguish this allergy symptom, allergic reactions can release chemicals in your body that cause fatigue. So if you’re already feeling the common allergy symptoms with the addition of tiredness, it is most likely allergy fatigue. It is important to recognize the difference between normal tiredness and allergy fatigue because coffee or energy drinks will not treat allergy fatigue.
- Your quality of sleep is extremely important, especially during allergy season. Because your immune system is working overtime and your body is not repairing and resting at night due to allergies, the body cannot function at full capacity, resulting in intense fatigue.
Pros And Cons Of Allergy Shots
Many allergy sufferers feel differently based on the time of year. Outdoor allergies may be mild in some months, then more severe in others as pollen counts change. How you feel depends on the season, your specific allergen triggers and how much time you spend outdoors.
It neednt be that way, though, as effective treatments are available.
An allergy is a reaction of your immune system to a foreign substance. It can be pollen, dander from pets, like dogs and cats, to different types of food. When an allergic reaction occurs, it is because your immune system manufacturers substances called antibodies that respond to a substance called an allergen. The antibodies produced attack the allergen that your immune system reacts to, as it has identified them as harmful even though the immune system is mistaken. When your immune system makes antibodies, your body may have a reaction that inflames your skin, your airways, or your digestive system.
Also Check: Which Allergy Medicine Works Best For Cough
How Long To I Have To Keep Getting My Allergy Shots
There are two phases to allergy shot therapy: a build-up phase and a maintenance phase.
- Build-up phase: In this phase you will start with a low dose injection and build to a higher dose of allergens over time. For typical immunotherapy this phase lasts from 6 to 10 months, depending on how often you get your shots and how well you tolerate them. The build-up phase for venom therapy generally lasts for 10 weeks.
- Maintenance phase: When you reach your effective therapeutic dose you will begin the maintenance phase. During this phase you receive your allergy shots less often, usually every 3 to 4 weeks. The maintenance phase typically lasts 3-5 years .
Pain Redness Or Swelling At The Injection Site
Pain at the injection site is one of the most common side effects from receiving the tetanus vaccine. According to the CDC, it occurs in 2 in 3 adults that receive the Tdap vaccine. This should subside in a few days.
If pain or swelling is causing you discomfort, you can take an over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen to help.
Recommended Reading: What Causes Seasonal Allergies In September
How Do Allergy Shots Help
Allergy shots help the body build immunity to specific allergens, so it’s not as bothered by them. Allergy shots also can help kids who have allergies andasthma have fewer asthma flare-ups.
Allergy shots contain a tiny amount of a purified form of the allergen causing problems. Doctors increase the dose slowly over the first 36 months. This lets the immune system safely adjust and build immunity to the allergens. This is called the buildup phase.
The highest effective safe dose becomes a child’s monthly maintenance dose. Health care providers give this to the child for about 3 to 5 years. Most kids will need fewer shots over time.
Some kids’ allergy symptoms ease during the buildup phase. Others don’t feel better until they’re into the maintenance phase. After years of getting allergy shots, some may have lasting relief from symptoms.
Find Out What Youre Allergic To
In order to treat your allergies, you have to know what youre up against.
An allergy test can help identify substances that trigger allergic reactions in your body. These substances, known as allergens, can be things you breathe in, things you touch, or things you eat.
A skin prick allergy test involves exposing the skin on your arm or back to small amounts of allergens to then see what you react to. These tests are typically done in a single sitting, and youll get results right away.
A blood allergy test can also check for allergens and is useful if you take a medication that can interfere with results or if your doctor suspects you may have a severe allergic reaction to even a tiny amount of an allergen.
Don’t Miss: Can Allergies Cause Temple Pain
How To Manage Allergy
Do you have allergies and feel like every time you experience a flare-up, you become very tired? As if you didnt have enough to deal with when it comes to allergic symptomsin addition to a runny nose, wheezing, a cough, itchy and watery eyes, and more, allergies can make you feel constantly tired. Heres how allergies are linked to fatigue.
How do allergies cause fatigue?
When you experience allergy flare-ups, you may also notice that you feel more tired than usual. This is because allergens prompt your body to release chemicals called histamines. Histamines help your body fight allergies, but they can also cause swelling in your nasal passages. This can lead to congestion, which can worsen your symptoms and make it difficult to sleep. Poor sleep results in fatigue.
How do you treat fatigue caused by allergies?
In most cases, the best way to treat fatigue caused by allergies is to treat your allergies. The first step is to determine what you are allergic to.
Get a diagnosis for your allergies.The key to successfully treating your allergies is knowing what you are allergic to. An allergist can conduct allergy testing to determine which allergens trigger your symptoms. You can then work with your doctor to treat your allergies.
Your allergist will be able to help you develop a plan to limit exposure to allergens. This can be an important part of managing your allergies and therefore reducing fatigue.
