Do you suffer from allergies? Millions of people do, and many turn to allergy drop as a treatment. Allergy drops are a form of immunotherapy that can help you overcome your allergies. We will discuss what allergy drops are, how they work, and the benefits they offer. We will also answer some common questions about allergy drops.
What Are Allergy Drops?
Allergy drops are a form of immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is a process that attempts to desensitize your immune system. So it no longer reacts as strongly to substances you’re allergic to (allergens).
These drops are taken orally and contain different allergens than those you’re allergic to; for example, your allergy drops may include grass or ragweed extract if you have pollen allergies. These allergens are often in low concentrations compared to what you would be exposed to when outside. Many people think of allergy drops as a treatment for hay fever, but they can also treat other types of allergies, such as food allergies.
How Do Allergy Drops Work?
As we mention above, allergy drops are a form of immunotherapy. Cells in your immune system called Mast Cells release histamines when they come in contact with an allergen. The histamines cause the cells to swell and release other chemicals that can trigger you to have any one of a variety of allergy symptoms.
The allergens in your drops are present at low concentrations, so it takes time for your body to process the allergen. This is different from how you would react to an allergen when you’re outside- those allergens are at much higher concentrations and enter near the lungs, where they cause an immediate reaction.
By taking your allergy drops daily, you are slowly exposing yourself to a much larger dose of the allergen than if it entered your body at a high concentration outside. Eventually, this process desensitizes your immune system so that it no longer reacts as strongly to the allergen when you encounter it naturally.
How Effective Are Allergy Drops?
Research shows that most people who use allergy drops to treat hay fever see a positive result. The first month or two of treatment may not have any noticeable effect, but most people see significant improvement in their symptoms after five months. If you choose to take allergy drops for your hay fever, you will likely need to take them for at least three to five years, though some people choose to take them indefinitely. Allergy drops are most effective when taken daily.
Who Should Not Use Allergy Drops?
If you have a history of anaphylaxis, you should not use allergy drops as they can trigger this condition. People who have had severe reactions to insect stings should also avoid using allergy drops, as the allergens in these drops are derived from animals. If you are allergic to ragweed or grass pollen, there is evidence that allergy shots may be more effective than allergy drops.
Are There Any Side Effects of Using Allergy Drops?
Some people experience mild side effects when taking allergy drops. These include but are not limited to nausea, headache, stomach ache, or itchiness around the area where you place the drops. The main concern with using allergy drops is that there is a possibility of experiencing an allergic reaction (not just having the same allergy symptoms you usually would). If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling of the mouth or throat, wheezing, or increased heart rate, stop taking your drops and contact your doctor immediately.
How Do I Take Allergy Drops?
The drops themselves are usually placed under the tongue once a day, like how you would use an eye drop. Some people choose to put drops on their skin instead of under the tongue, but this is not recommended. As with any treatment, it is essential to follow any instructions that your doctor provides you with.
How Do I Know How Many Years to Take Allergy Drops?
It varies from person to person how long you need to take the drops, but the consensus is that you need to take them for at least three years. If your allergies are severe, it’s recommended that you remain on allergy drops indefinitely.
What Are the Side Effects of Taking Allergy Drops?
Most people who use allergen immunotherapy experience some side effects while using it. Usually, these are mild, but some people experience more severe symptoms. These include headaches, nausea, or itching around the area where you put the drops. As with any medication, it’s essential to let your doctor know if you have any concerns while using allergy drops so he can assess how well they are working for you.
What Drops Do I Need to Take for a Food Allergy?
You will need to speak with your doctor about what drops you require as there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. Your doctor may test your specific allergies and provide you with a customized treatment plan. The good news is that this type of treatment is becoming more common, with allergy drops increasing over the last few decades.
Are Allergy Drops Terrible for You?
Allergy drops are generally very safe, but they will make you more sensitive to the allergens in question. This can be a benefit, or it can be a negative, depending on the allergen in question. Most people do not experience any side effects when using allergy drops. However, if you have ever experienced an allergic reaction to anything in your life, you should speak to your doctor before using them. The allergist will determine whether or not this is safe for you.
How Do I Know If My Allergies Are Chronic?
If your allergies are severe, ongoing, and have an impact on your quality of life, they are likely chronic. Sometimes you will experience allergic reactions to things that were not previously a problem for you- this can indicate chronic allergies. You should speak to your doctor if you have any concerns regarding your allergies to determine whether or not they are established.
Conclusion
With the constant increase in pollen count and other elements that cause allergies, it is essential to manage your allergies effectively. If you suffer from an allergic condition and want to reduce or eliminate your symptoms, allergy drops can be a safe and effective way of doing so.
