Anyone get allergy shots?

SEWF

I just got one today, for the first time. I thought I had a sinus infection or strep because 2 people at work had sinus infections, and my throat and ears have been killing me, but the doctor said it's just allergies with me. I had always thought allergies made you sneeze and sniffle, unless it was a food allergy. I haven't had anything different or new in the last few days, so I don't think it's food. I'm really tired now after my shot, like I want to take a three hour nap. Do you think it's from the shot, or just from feeling so crappy?

Also, do you have to get allergy shots a lot? I got the impression this is a one time (or on a case by case basis).

And yes, I will talk to an actual doctor about this stuff, but I didn't think about it while I was at the office.

SarahPLiz

I get allergy shots. It is  approximately s 3 year progression of injections. In the beginning II got them 3x a week. Im on my third year and now i go every other week. They are admnistered by my allergist and are meant to build my immunity to things Im allergic to. The serum is formulated for y specific allergies as diagnised by extensive testing.

I bet what you got today was a hydrocortisone shot. It probably made you drowsy. My shots sometimes itch and swell at the injection site, but never make me feel sick.

cayres5

Ditto Sarah except I only had to go once a month once I reached maintenance.  My arms also were really sore afterwards for a day or so.  If you do get tested, ask for a food crossover chart (I forget the actual name).  My allergy doc gave it to me and it listed potential foods (fruits and veggies) that I could be allergic to based on the results of my non-food allergies.  I was able to monitor to see if I had any reactions to specific fruits and veggies.

Denise91980

I just finished 3 years worth of shots. I started at weekly, then went to every two weeks, then every 3 weeks, then monthly. It definnitely helped and made a difference IMO. I think you are tired because you aren't feeling well.

angelsong21

I agree with PP that you likely did not get an allergy shot today but instead received a hydrocortisone injections.  Allergy shots (also called immunotherapy) are done using a serum that is formulated for the individual receiving the injection.  Therefore, you have to undergo extensive testing (skin pricks/injections of many, many different allergens, and sometimes also bloodwork).

Immunotherapy is usually over a span of 3 years or so and you increase the dosage gradually over time. I think my shots started out at 1:1000 ppm and my next step was 1:100 ppm.  I am supposed to go once a week but I forgot last week.  The injection site does swell and itch sometimes and I sometimes feel crappy afterwards when they have increased my dosage; otherwise, I do not notice any side effects.

JoelandLeann

Did your allergy shots allow you to be in the same room as a pet and play with them? I don't know if any of you were allergic to cats or dogs. I am allergic to their dander, skin and salivia, but I want a puppy so badly. I have been thinking about shots.

girliegirlral

All courses are different.  Mine was 2x a week for 2 years - going through 5 different viles of concentrate.  I also know that people have different reactions to the shots.  I got red and itchy near the injection site, but I had a coworker who would actually need to take benadryl/allergy meds after because it affected her badly.

When I compare my life before, I do know that the shots have improved my allergies; however, they have not removed allergies completely by any means.  Allergies can change and evolve overtime - it's the pits!