According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, hay fever is a common issue for young people. Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, mold or other allergens that causes cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, headaches and nasal congestion. Most cases of hay fever are treated with over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines and decongestants, but for people who suffer from chronic hay fever, immunotherapy may be the best option. Talk with an allergist to determine the best treatment.
Immune Response
Allergy shots are intended to desensitize the immune system to the allergen, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAI). When the body has an allergic reaction, it is the immune system attempting to ward off the allergen by releasing antibodies--and these antibodies produce hay fever symptoms.
Method
Allergy shots introduce the allergen into the body on a weekly basis over the course of a few years in small doses. Over time the amount of the allergen is increased until the immune system doesn't react to it any longer.
Risks
According to the Mayo Clinic, allergy shots involve a level of risk. Local reactions to the shot are common. These reactions affect the area surrounding the injection site with swelling, irritation and redness and may last up to eight hours. Additionally, there may be an allergic reaction, called a systemic reaction, in which the person may begin sneezing, coughing or break out in hives. The shot can also result in wheezing, tightness in the chest and swelling. In extremely rare cases anaphylactic shock can occur--this is a life-threatening condition in which the body goes into shock.
Effectiveness
According to the AAAAI, symptoms may improve following initial treatments, but full relief could take up to 12 months. Allergy shot treatment for hay fever can last up to five years, but will be discontinued if there is no noticeable improvement after one year. People who respond well to allergy shot treatment may be cured of their severe hay fever condition, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Precautions
Allergy shots are not for everyone and should be discussed in detail with an allergist. During the initial treatments the patient should remain under a doctor's observance for the first hour after receiving the allergy shot in case there is an adverse reaction.
