Allergen Immunotherapy
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Allergen Immunotherapy
Allergen immunotherapy is a medical treatment designed to reduce or eliminate allergic reactions to specific allergens. It works by gradually exposing the body to increasing amounts of the allergen over time, allowing the immune system to build tolerance. This treatment is particularly effective for people with allergic rhinitis, or dust mites. Unlike medications that only manage symptoms, immunotherapy addresses the root cause of the allergy, offering long-term relief.
How Does Allergen Immunotherapy Work?
Allergen immunotherapy works by gradually desensitising the immune system to the substances causing the allergic reaction. During the treatment, patients are exposed to small, controlled doses of the allergen through injections or tablets. These doses are slowly increased, helping the immune system adapt and reducing its sensitivity to the allergen. Over time, the body’s immune response becomes less severe, which leads to fewer or milder symptoms when exposed to the allergen in the future.
This process can take several months to years, but the goal is to provide long-term relief and, in some cases, even a complete reduction of symptoms.
Types of Allergen Immunotherapy
Allergen immunotherapy comes in two primary forms, each designed to reduce allergic symptoms by gradually desensitising the immune system to specific allergens. The type of immunotherapy recommended will depend on factors like the allergen triggering your symptoms, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences. Below are the two most common types of allergen immunotherapy:
Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT)
SCIT involves regular injections of the allergen under the skin. This is the most common form of allergen immunotherapy. The treatment typically begins with weekly injections that gradually build up to monthly maintenance doses.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)
SLIT is an alternative to injections, where small doses of the allergen are administered under the tongue in the form of tablets or drops. SLIT can be self-administered at home and is a good option for patients who prefer to avoid injections.
Who Can Benefit from Allergen Immunotherapy?
Allergen immunotherapy is an effective treatment for individuals whose allergies significantly impact their quality of life. It is especially beneficial for those who:
- Suffer from moderate to severe allergic rhinitis caused by dust mites, mould, cats, dogs, cockroaches
- Have asthma triggered by allergens like dust mites, mould, or pet dander.
- Experience allergic reactions to insect stings or bites
- Have tried medications and avoidance strategies but continue to experience allergy symptoms.
Immunotherapy is not suitable for everyone. It is generally recommended for individuals who have tested positive for specific allergens and whose symptoms are not well controlled by standard treatments.
Duration and Effectiveness of Treatment
The duration of allergen immunotherapy depends on the type of treatment and the patient’s response. The typical course of treatment lasts between three and five years. During this time, patients will receive regular doses, which are gradually increased during the initial phase (called the buildup phase) and then maintained at a consistent level during the maintenance phase.
Many patients experience symptom relief within the first year, with significant improvement often seen after two to three years. Some patients may experience long-lasting benefits even after treatment ends, while others may require ongoing maintenance.
Risks and Side Effects
Like any medical treatment, allergen immunotherapy carries some risks and side effects. These can vary depending on the individual and the type of immunotherapy they are undergoing.
Common side effects include:
- Redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site (for SCIT).
- Mild throat irritation or itching (for SLIT).
- Sneezing or mild congestion after receiving treatment.
Serious side effects are rare but may include anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. For this reason, it’s important that allergen immunotherapy is administered in a medical setting where emergency care is available, particularly during the initial stages of treatment. Patients are typically monitored for 30 minutes after each treatment to ensure they do not have a serious reaction.
What to Expect During Allergen Immunotherapy
When undergoing allergen immunotherapy, the process typically involves several key stages to ensure safe and effective treatment. Here’s what you can expect at each step, from initial tests to long-term maintenance.
Before starting treatment, your doctor will perform allergy tests to identify the specific allergens triggering your symptoms. These tests may include skin prick tests or blood tests.
During the buildup phase, patients receive small but increasing doses of the allergen, either through injections (SCIT) or tablets/drops under the tongue (SLIT). This phase typically lasts several months and requires frequent visits to the doctor (weekly or bi-weekly).
Once the optimal dose is reached, the maintenance phase begins. During this phase, the patient continues to receive the treatment, but the frequency of doses decreases to once a month (for SCIT) or at-home daily dosing (for SLIT). The maintenance phase lasts for several years, depending on the patient’s response to the treatment.
Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the progress of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments. Most patients begin to see improvements in their symptoms during the buildup phase, but full benefits often take longer to develop.
O2 Lung Centre: Allergen Treatment in Singapore
Allergen immunotherapy offers a long-term solution for those suffering from persistent allergic reactions, helping to reduce symptoms and improve overall quality of life. At O2 Lung Centre, we provide personalised allergen treatment plans, including both subcutaneous and sublingual immunotherapy options, tailored to your specific needs. If you’re struggling with allergy symptoms that disrupt your daily life, reach out to our specialists to learn more about how immunotherapy can help. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward effective allergy relief.