Preparing For Your First Allergen Immunotherapy Treatment
Are you having an allergen immunotherapy treatment completed for the first time? If so, you might not know what to expect. Fortunately, the process itself is fairly simple. The shots help you build up an immunity to allergens that effect you and could keep you from needing regular medication. However, there are a few things that you need to know before your first appointment.
Exercise
When you exercise, it boosts the blood flow to various tissues in your body. This may make the allergens spread throughout your body faster. Because of this, you should consider avoiding exercise two hours before and after your appointment. It isn't likely that exercising will cause serious problems. However, problems can occur, so if you have exercised before your appointment, make sure you notify your allergist before he or she administers your shots.
Medications and Supplements
Certain medications can interfere with your allergen immunotherapy treatment. So it's important that you tell your allergist about any medications or supplements you're taking. This includes prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, supplements, and herbal treatments. If you're taking something that increases your risk of side effects, your allergist may want you to stop your medications before beginning your allergen immunotherapy treatment.
Antihistamines
Ask your allergist if he or she recommends you taking an antihistamine before your appointment. Some allergists recommend taking an antihistamine at least 30 minutes before your appointment to decrease your risk of symptoms.
Illness
If you don't feel well in any way, you need to inform your allergist before you get your allergy shot. This is especially important if you have asthma and it's been acting up. The side effects from your shot could make you feel worse than you're already feeling. If you have asthma that's been acting up, your allergy shot could send you into an attack, so your allergist may suggest that you reschedule your appointment.
After the Appointment
Plan to be at your doctor's office for about 30 minutes after you've received your shot. Serious reactions to allergy shots typically occur within 30 minutes, so staying at the office ensures your safety. Remember, if you have a serious reaction to your allergy immunotherapy treatment after you've left the doctor's office, you should go to the nearest emergency room.
Allergen immunotherapy is a common treatment, so don't worry too much about your first appointment. If you do have any concerns about the treatment, talk to your allergist to see what he or she suggests.
For immunotherapy, contact a doctor's office such as Allergy & Asthma Clinic of Wyoming LLC.
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