When you go for a hike at Minto Brown Island Park, do you experience annoying symptoms like itchy eyes, sinus pressure, runny nose, sneezing, scratchy throat and headache? If so, you’re probably looking for a long-term solution. Look no further: we answer all your questions about allergy drops, also known as sublingual immunotherapy, below.
What Are Allergy Drops?
Allergy drops, like allergy shots, are a form of immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is a long-term allergy solution that works by introducing small amounts of allergen extracts into the body over time so that your immune system can build up a tolerance to them. After three to five years, the goal is for you to experience no symptoms or significantly reduced symptoms.
What Do Allery Drop Treat?
Allergy drops are a safe and effective option for treating allergic rhinitis. Currently, the FDA has approved the use of allergy drops to treat:
- Ragweed.
- Timothy grass.
- Dust mites.
- A combination of five grass species.
However, your allergist can prescribe allergy drops off-label to treat other allergies.
How Are Allergy Drops Administered?
Allergy drops are administered in either liquid drop or tablet form. The drops/tablets are held under the tongue until dissolved, for about one minute. You should avoid swallowing during this time. Then, you should avoid eating or drinking anything for at least five minutes.
Your first dose of allergy drops is administered in an allergist’s office, where you’ll stay for about 30 minutes so any side effects can be monitored. In the unlikely event that you have a severe reaction, your allergy team will be on standby.
After the first dose, you can take the rest of the doses at home.
How Often Are the Drops Given?
How often you take your allergy drops depends on which type you get. Some are taken daily, while others are taken weekly. For seasonal allergies, you only have to take the drops in the months leading up to and during allergy season. For year-round allergies, you’ll take the drops year-round. In most cases, allergy drops are taken for a total of three years.
For more information about allergy drops, allergy testing or to schedule an appointment, call Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery today.
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