Preparing for allergy immunotherapy injection

Overview

Allergy immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a treatment that helps your immune system become less sensitive to allergens—things like pollen, dust mites, or insect venom. You get regular injections (shots) over several years to gradually build up your tolerance.

Yes, allergy immunotherapy is a well-established treatment for people with moderate to severe allergies that don’t improve enough with other methods.

It is mainly for people with confirmed allergies to things like pollen, mold, dust mites, pet dander, or insect venom. It is not usually for food allergies or very mild symptoms.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Itching in the throat or ears
• Wheezing or coughing from allergic asthma

Symptoms in children

• Same as adults, but children may also have trouble sleeping or concentrating because of symptoms
• They might rub their nose upward (the ‘allergic salute’) or get dark circles under their eyes

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have less typical symptoms like fatigue or reduced sense of smell
• Allergy symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other health issues common in aging

Causes

Main causes

• Your immune system mistakes harmless things like pollen or dust mites as dangerous and overreacts
• Allergy shots work by exposing you to tiny amounts of the allergen so your immune system learns not to react

Risk factors

• Having moderate to severe allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Having allergic asthma that is triggered by inhaled allergens
• A history of severe allergic reactions to insect stings

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a severe reaction after a shot (anaphylaxis) – call emergency services immediately
• If you notice signs of an allergic reaction that get worse quickly

Book a routine appointment if:

• Visit your allergy specialist as scheduled for your injections
• Before starting immunotherapy, talk to your doctor about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you take

Diagnosis

A doctor (allergist or immunologist) will review your symptoms, do a physical exam, and perform tests to identify which allergens trigger your reactions.

Tests that may be done

• Skin prick test – a small drop of allergen is placed on your skin and lightly pricked to see if a red bump appears
• Blood test (specific IgE) – measures your immune system’s response to particular allergens

What to expect at your appointment

Testing is usually done in an office visit. Results come back quickly (15-20 minutes for skin tests). Your doctor will explain what you are allergic to and discuss whether immunotherapy is a good option for you.

Treatment

Allergy immunotherapy is a planned course of injections that reduce your body's allergic response. It is not a cure, but it can greatly improve symptoms and quality of life. Treatment is divided into a buildup phase (weekly or biweekly shots for several months) and a maintenance phase (monthly shots for several years).

Self-care at home

• Follow your doctor's instructions about any medications to pause before an injection
• Apply a cold pack to the injection site if it becomes red or swollen
• Avoid strenuous exercise or hot baths for a few hours after your shot
• Tell your doctor about any new medications or health changes before your next injection

Medical treatments

Your allergy doctor will prescribe a personalized schedule of allergen extracts. All shots are prepared by a pharmacy or clinic and given at a medical facility. Emergency medications like epinephrine are kept on site in case of a severe reaction. Never attempt to give yourself these injections at home.

When is surgery considered?

Not applicable; allergy immunotherapy is not a surgical procedure.

Living with this condition

While on immunotherapy, you will need to visit your doctor’s office regularly for injections. Keep a log of your symptoms and any reactions you have after shots. Most people find the routine easy to follow and notice improvements within a few months.

Lifestyle tips

• Stick to your appointment schedule – consistency is key to success
• Carry your emergency action plan and know where your nearest medical facility is
• Talk to your employer or school about flexible times for appointments

Diet and exercise

No specific diet is required, but staying healthy can support your immune system. Light exercise is fine, but avoid heavy exertion on the day of your injection.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with allergies can be frustrating and tiring. Immunotherapy may reduce the mental load of constantly managing symptoms. If you feel anxious about the injections or your allergies, talk to your doctor. If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself, contact a crisis helpline immediately.

Prevention

Allergies cannot always be prevented, but immunotherapy can prevent them from getting worse and may reduce the risk of developing new allergies or asthma.

Complications

If left untreated

• Persistent symptoms that affect sleep, work, and daily life
• Increased risk of developing asthma
• Severe allergic reactions to stings or inhaled allergens

Long-term outlook

For most people, allergy immunotherapy brings meaningful, long-lasting relief. Studies show it can reduce symptoms by 70-90% in hay fever and prevent dangerous reactions to insect stings. With regular follow-up, many people stop needing daily allergy medications.

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