What is immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis?

What is immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis?

Immunotherapy treatment (allergy shots) is based on a century-old concept that the immune system can be desensitized to specific allergens that trigger allergy symptoms. These symptoms may be caused by allergic respiratory conditions such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and asthma.

What is immunotherapy in relation to treating food allergies?

Oral immunotherapy (OIT) refers to feeding an allergic individual an increasing amount of an allergen with the goal of increasing the threshold that triggers a reaction. For example, a person allergic to peanuts may be given very small amounts of peanut protein that would not trigger a reaction.

What is the common immune system response to an allergen?

The Immune System Your immune system overreacts by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals, causing an allergic reaction. This reaction usually causes symptoms in the nose, lungs, throat, sinuses, ears, lining of the stomach or on the skin.

Can you desensitize yourself to food allergies?

Overcome Allergies With Food Desensitization While there is no cure for a food allergy, food desensitization offers the best alternative. This process is called oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT), and Dr. Chacko is one of a small number of board certified allergists offering the treatment in the United States.

Does immunotherapy work for dust mite allergies?

Many people with a dust mite allergy do not get complete relief from medicines. This means they may consider immunotherapy (allergy shots). Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that can help prevent or reduce the severity of allergic reactions.

Does allergies weaken the immune system?

However, if you do have ongoing allergies and they aren’t treated effectively, it could weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to viruses and other germs. That, in turn, could enable your uncontrolled allergies to evolve into a sinus, ear, or upper respiratory infection.