Zaditor<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\nHow Do Mast\nCell Inhibitors Help Allergies? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Mast cell inhibitors are medications that prevent allergy symptoms such as runny nose or itchy, watery eyes from occurring. They work by inhibiting the release of histamines the immune system produces in response to allergens such as pollen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
They are available in the form of nasal sprays and eye drops, and must be taken a week or two before the start of allergy season, and continued on a daily basis for the duration of the season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Immunotherapy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
People who suffer from allergies that don\u2019t respond to medical treatment may find relief from immunotherapy, a method of building tolerance to an allergen by introducing it to the body in small doses over a period of time. It is usually given as injections (allergy shots), but can also be taken orally. When ingested, it is known as sublingual immunotherapy, or allergy drops. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Allergy Shots<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) are the most common form of immunotherapy. They can be used as a long-term treatment for seasonal, indoor and insect sting allergies. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
They work by getting your body used to the allergen slowly, with the hopes that you will develop an immunity or tolerance to the allergen. The process takes place in two phases, the build-up phase and the maintenance phase. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The build-up phase involves a small amount of the allergen being injected into the upper arm once a week. The dosage is gradually increased at each visit. When full concentration of the allergen is reached you move into the maintenance phase. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The maintenance phase lasts for three years. The first year you continue to come for an injection weekly. In the second year you move to having an injection every other week. Finally, when you arrive at the third year, your shots occur only once every three weeks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are There Any\nRisks with Allergy Shots? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Since allergy shots contain a substance you are allergic to, there are some risks involved. Swelling and redness usually develop at the site of injection but are quick to clear up. Sneezing, nasal congestion and hives may develop as well as more severe reactions such as wheezing or chest-tightness. Anaphylaxis, the most serious reaction, rarely occurs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since these shots are administered in a clinical setting, any reaction that does occur can be easily treated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Can I\nExpect from Allergy Shots? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Allergy symptoms will not improve overnight; symptoms will typically improve over the first year of treatment and continue to improve over the next few years. The shots may even decrease symptoms for other allergens and prevent new allergies from developing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Allergy Drops<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Allergy drops, also known as sublingual immunotherapy, are a more effective treatment than over-the-counter pills because they combat the cause of allergies rather than the symptoms. They are also safer than allergy shots because they aren\u2019t administered with a needle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How Do\nAllergy Drops Work? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The principle of allergy drops is the same as allergy shots. It is a long-term treatment that decreases symptoms by increasing the body\u2019s immunity. The patient drips liquid containing allergens under the tongue and holds it there for one to two minutes before swallowing. This is a more convenient option than allergy shots for many patients because allergy drops can be safely administered at home rather than at the doctor\u2019s office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The dose will gradually increase over the first ten days of treatment and then will remain the same through the rest of the course. Drops are self-administered daily by patients for an average of three to five years. The goal is to build up the body\u2019s immunity to allergens so the patient no longer experiences symptoms once the treatment is over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are There Any\nRisks with Allergy Drops? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Like all medical procedures, there are possible risks and side effects. However, these are generally mild, ranging from localized itching in the mouth to intestinal discomfort, which often goes away after several weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Can I\nExpect from Allergy Drops? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Allergy drops are an important new treatment option for patients constantly refilling over-the-counter allergy medications or taking daily trips to the doctor\u2019s office for allergy shots. Currently, allergy drops are effective for treating asthma related to dust mites, as well as allergies to grass, ragweed, pet dander and tree pollen. Researchers hope to expand the treatment\u2019s effectiveness for other allergies such as hay fever, eczema and food sensitivities.<\/p>\n\n\n
Call Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery<\/span> at (503) 581-1567<\/span><\/a> for more information or to schedule an appointment.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Allergies are a widespread condition that affects approximately one out of every five Americans. They occur throughout the year in all types of climates and can be triggered by pollen, mold spores, dust mites, animal dander, food, chemicals, medications and other environmental irritants. With so many possible causes, finding the source of your allergic response…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":229,"menu_order":3,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"(503) 581-1567 | Allergy treatments range from OTC medication for seasonal allergies to longer term immunotherapy. Discover your options. Schedule now.","_seopress_robots_index":"","schema":"