Overview

What are allergy shots?
Small amounts of allergen are injected in gradually increasing amounts so that the allergic individual is able to better tolerate the substances to which he or she is allergic. 

What is Conventional Immunotherapy?
Conventional immunotherapy builds up to a maintenance dose over a period of months.

What is Rapid Desensitization?
Rapid desensitization accomplishes the initial build-up with premedication over a period of hours and the individual gets relief in a shorter period of time than with conventional immunotherapy.

What does Hickory Allergy & Asthma Clinic offer?
Both techniques help the patient better tolerate the substances to which he or she is allergic.  Hickory Allergy & Asthma Clinic offers conventional immunotherapy and rapid desensitization; the key to success of either method is selecting patients that have specific allergens contributing to symptoms as determined by history and skin testing.  A survey by Hickory Allergy & Asthma Clinic shows our patients on allergy shots average 85 percent less medication.

Dr. Inglefield answers questions on conventional immunotherapy and rapid desensitization.  

Which allergens are typically given in shots?
Allergy shots are given for inhalant allergens such as dust, mold, and pollen.  One can also take injections for insect hypersensitivity. Allergy shots are not given for food or medication allergies.