Every year, over 100 million Americans grapple with various types of allergies, turning simple pleasures like a stroll in the park into uncomfortable ordeals with itchy eyes, congestion and constant sneezing. These common occurrences underscore the importance of seeking effective allergy treatment.
Sublingual therapy stands out as a highly beneficial treatment for allergies. Let’s delve into how allergies can impact your daily life, the specifics of sublingual therapy and whether it’s the right treatment for you.
The Impact of Allergies on Daily Life
Allergies can significantly affect daily life, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Common allergy symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and hives. Severe symptoms may include difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness and rapidly dropping blood pressure. These symptoms can disrupt daily activities, affecting sleep quality, productivity and overall well-being.
Common Allergens
Allergens are substances that can trigger allergic reactions. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander and certain foods. When possible, recognizing and avoiding these allergens is a critical step in managing allergy symptoms effectively.
Understanding Sublingual Therapy
Sublingual therapy is a form of allergy immunotherapy that introduces small, gradually increasing doses of an allergen to the patient. This approach aims to desensitize the body’s reaction to the allergen over time. Unlike traditional allergy shots administered under the skin, sublingual therapy involves placing drops or tablets beneath the tongue.
This method is noted for its convenience and comfort, especially for those who prefer to avoid needles and frequent visits to the clinic. While allergy shots have been deemed more effective for conditions like allergic rhinitis and asthma, sublingual therapy offers a viable alternative for many.
Identifying Candidates for Sublingual Therapy
To determine if sublingual therapy is suitable, allergy specialists conduct skin prick or blood tests to identify specific allergens. Following this, your medications and overall health are evaluated to ascertain if sublingual therapy is right for you.
Sublingual therapy is generally recommended for children and adults as part of a comprehensive allergy treatment plan. However, it is advised that pregnant women avoid initiating sublingual therapy during pregnancy. If already started before pregnancy, most women are safe to continue sublingual therapy so long as they do not experience adverse reactions.
Efficacy and Duration of Treatment
Patients often notice an improvement in allergy symptoms within three to four months of starting sublingual therapy, provided the treatment is as directed. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the effectiveness of the therapy and make any necessary adjustments.
If you’re considering sublingual therapy or seeking other allergy treatment options, reaching out to an allergist is the first step toward managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. For more information about sublingual therapy, contact Prescott Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.