What is immunotherapy (allergy shots) and how does it help children with allergies and asthma?
Quick Answer
Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, is a treatment where your child receives small, gradually increasing doses of allergens over several years.
This helps their body become less sensitive to those allergens.
It's like training their immune system not to overreact, reducing allergy symptoms and sometimes helping with asthma, especially when allergies trigger it.
Recommended Practices
Consult an Allergist
First, visit a qualified allergist.
They'll perform tests to identify your child's specific allergens.
This is crucial for creating a personalized immunotherapy plan.
Make sure the allergist is experienced in treating children.
Follow the Injection Schedule
Immunotherapy involves regular injections, typically once or twice a week initially, then monthly for maintenance.
Stick to the schedule as closely as possible.
Consistency is key for building tolerance.
Don't miss appointments without informing the clinic.
Monitor for Reactions
After each injection, observe your child for at least 30 minutes at the clinic.
Watch for signs like hives, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Mild reactions are common, but severe reactions need immediate attention.
Inform the staff about any unusual symptoms.
Manage Mild Reactions at Home
If your child experiences mild itching or redness at the injection site, apply a cold compress.
An antihistamine, as prescribed by your doctor, can also help.
If symptoms worsen, contact your allergist immediately.
Create an Allergy-Friendly Environment
While undergoing immunotherapy, continue to minimize your child's exposure to known allergens at home.
This includes regular cleaning to reduce dust mites, using air purifiers, and avoiding foods they're allergic to.
This helps the immunotherapy work more effectively.
Be Patient and Consistent
Immunotherapy takes time.
It may take several months to a year to see significant improvement.
Continue the treatment as prescribed, even if you don't see immediate results.
Long-term consistency is essential for lasting benefits.
Talk to your allergist if you have concerns.
What to Avoid
Stopping Treatment Prematurely
Don't stop immunotherapy without consulting your allergist, even if your child feels better.
Prematurely stopping can cause allergies to return.
Complete the full course of treatment as recommended for lasting effects.
Giving Injections at Home Without Supervision
Never attempt to administer allergy shots at home unless specifically instructed and trained by your allergist.
Giving injections incorrectly can be dangerous.
Always have it done at the clinic under medical supervision.
Ignoring Warning Signs
Don't ignore any unusual or severe reactions after an injection.
Symptoms like difficulty breathing, wheezing, or swelling of the face or throat require immediate medical attention.
These could indicate a serious allergic reaction.
Relying Solely on Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is most effective when combined with other allergy management strategies.
Continue to avoid known allergens and use prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.
It's a comprehensive approach, not a standalone solution.
Assuming Immediate Results
Don't expect instant relief. Immunotherapy is a gradual process. It takes time for the body to build tolerance. Be patient and consistent with the treatment plan. It's a marathon, not a sprint.
Using Expired or Improperly Stored Allergen Extracts
Ensure the allergen extracts are stored correctly and haven't expired.
Improper storage or expired extracts can be ineffective or even harmful.
Always check the expiration date and follow storage instructions provided by the allergist.
Common Scenarios and Solutions
My child is afraid of needles. How can I make the injections less stressful?
Talk to your child about what to expect in a calm and reassuring manner.
Use distraction techniques during the injection, such as reading a book or playing a game.
Consider using a topical numbing cream on the injection site to reduce discomfort.
Reward your child after each injection to create a positive association.
My child has a cold. Should we still get the allergy shot?
Contact your allergist.
Mild cold symptoms may not be a contraindication, but it's best to check with the doctor.
They may recommend postponing the injection if your child has a fever or is feeling very unwell.
It's always better to err on the side of caution.
We're going on vacation. How do we manage the allergy shots?
Discuss your travel plans with your allergist.
They may be able to adjust the injection schedule or provide guidance on finding an allergist at your destination if needed.
Don't interrupt the treatment without consulting your doctor.
My child's symptoms seem to be getting worse after starting immunotherapy. What should I do?
Contact your allergist immediately.
While some initial worsening of symptoms is possible, it could also indicate a problem with the treatment plan.
The allergist may need to adjust the dosage or investigate other potential causes of the increased symptoms.
Similar Questions Parents Ask
How long does immunotherapy take to work?
It typically takes several months to a year to see significant improvement in allergy symptoms with immunotherapy.
Is immunotherapy safe for children?
Immunotherapy is generally safe for children when administered by a qualified allergist, but it's important to monitor for potential allergic reactions.
What are the side effects of allergy shots?
Common side effects include mild redness, itching, or swelling at the injection site, but more serious reactions are possible and require immediate medical attention.
How much does immunotherapy cost in India?
The cost of immunotherapy varies depending on the allergist, the specific allergens involved, and the duration of treatment; it's best to inquire directly with the clinic for an estimate.
Signs to Consult Immediately
Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
Hives or widespread rash
Dizziness or loss of consciousness
Severe abdominal pain or vomiting
Any other symptoms that seem unusual or concerning after an allergy shot
Detailed Explanation
Immunotherapy works by gradually exposing your child's immune system to small amounts of allergens.
These allergens are the substances that trigger allergic reactions, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
Over time, this exposure helps the immune system become less sensitive to these allergens, reducing the severity of allergic reactions.
The process involves a series of injections given over several years.
Initially, the injections are given more frequently, usually once or twice a week, to build up tolerance.
This is called the build-up phase.
Once a maintenance dose is reached, the injections are given less frequently, typically once a month, to maintain the tolerance.
It's important to understand that immunotherapy is not a quick fix.
It takes time for the immune system to adapt.
You may not see significant improvement in your child's symptoms for several months to a year.
However, with consistent treatment, many children experience a significant reduction in allergy symptoms and a decreased need for allergy medications.
Normal reactions to the injections include mild redness, itching, or swelling at the injection site.
These reactions are usually temporary and can be managed with a cold compress or an antihistamine.
However, it's crucial to watch for more severe reactions, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat.
These require immediate medical attention.
The effectiveness of immunotherapy can vary depending on the individual and the specific allergens involved.
It's generally more effective for allergies to airborne allergens, such as pollen and dust mites, than for food allergies.
However, immunotherapy can still be a helpful treatment option for some children with food allergies, under the guidance of a qualified allergist.
For premature babies or children with underlying health conditions, the decision to pursue immunotherapy should be made in consultation with both an allergist and their primary care physician.
They may require closer monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan.
Also, remember that environmental factors in India, such as high pollution levels in cities or seasonal pollen variations, can affect allergy symptoms and the effectiveness of immunotherapy.
Discuss these factors with your allergist.
During the monsoon season, increased humidity can promote mold growth, which can exacerbate allergies.
In winter, indoor heating can dry out the air, leading to increased dust mite exposure.
Adjusting your home environment and allergy management strategies accordingly can help improve your child's comfort and the effectiveness of immunotherapy.
Sources
Indian Sources
Refer to the IAP website for the latest guidelines on managing allergies in children in India. (Check for specific allergy guidelines publication year).
Search the Indian Pediatrics journal for research articles on immunotherapy and allergy management in the Indian context. (Search for relevant articles by keyword).
International Sources
The WAO provides global resources and guidelines on allergy management, including immunotherapy. "Immunotherapy is an effective treatment for allergic diseases."
The AAAAI offers comprehensive information on allergies and asthma, including detailed explanations of immunotherapy. "Allergy shots can lead to decreased symptoms."
While not directly focused on allergies, UNICEF provides resources on child health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of a healthy environment. (Search for 'child health').
Recommended Reading for Parents
Look for books on allergies written by reputable medical organizations or allergists, available on Amazon India or at local bookstores. (Search for 'allergy books for parents').