Allergy Shots in Jefferson, Northern Lewis, and Southern St. Lawrence Counties
A form of immunotherapy, Allergy shots can be used to treat patients with a variety of indoor and outdoor allergies. At Carthage Area Hospital, we provide allergy shots to residents living in Jefferson, northern Lewis, and southern St. Lawrence counties in New York. We are committed to helping our patients improve their overall quality of life through allergy treatments and our vast range of other services.
About Allergy Shots
Allergy shots are regular injections administered over a period of time with the intent to stop or reduce allergy attacks. Each allergy shot contains a tiny amount of the substance that triggers an allergic reaction specific to the patient. As the dosage increases over the course of treatment, the immune system builds up a tolerance to the allergens, causing the symptoms to diminish over time.
Allergy shots can be used to control symptoms triggered by the following:
- Seasonal allergies: Seasonal allergies typically occur when pollens released by grass, weeds, or trees are circulating throughout the air.
- Insect stings: Bites or stings from insects, such as wasps, bees, or hornets, can yield mild to severe allergic reactions.
- Indoor allergens: Those with allergy symptoms year-round may be sensitive to indoor allergens, such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander.
Please keep in mind that allergy shots do not treat food allergies or chronic hives. Our specialists will discuss your symptoms and craft a treatment plan that best suits your individual needs.
Benefits of Allergy Shots
While allergy shots have been shown to decrease symptoms of existing irritants, they can also help prevent the progression of asthma and other diseases commonly triggered by allergens. Other benefits of allergy shots include:
- Increased natural immunity: Allergy shots work by slowly introducing your body to the elements that trigger a reaction. By introducing your system to these triggers in small and controlled amounts, allergy shots help your body develop natural immunity.
- Broad coverage: Allergy shots can help with a broad range of allergic conditions which allows more than one allergen to be treated at a time.
- Lower medication dependency: Because allergy shots improve how your immune system functions and reduce reactions to specific triggers, patients can often reduce or stop using allergy medications. This is especially beneficial to those who commonly experience negative side effects.
What to Expect at Carthage Area Hospital
For the most effective results, allergy shots are given in two different phases. Each phase serves a different purpose:
- Buildup phase: During this period, the allergen dosage is gradually increased to help strengthen immunity. Shots are usually administered one to three times a week for three to six months.
- Maintenance phase: In order to maintain the immunity the body has acquired, maintenance shots are needed. These are typically scheduled once a month for three to five years.
At Carthage Area Hospital we work with patients in Jefferson, northern Lewis, and southern St. Lawrence counties in NY, pinpointing what triggers their allergic reactions and developing the most appropriate treatment schedule. We discuss the pros and cons of allergy shots with each of our patients, along with any potential side effects that may occur. To learn more about our allergy shots, please contact us today.