Initially, the allergy shots expose the patient to doses of the allergen too small to cause a reaction. Hopefully, the body learns to accept the allergen and not react to the substance. Over time, as the shots reach the maintenance dose, exposure to the real allergen won't cause a reaction and trigger an asthma attack. Research has shown immunotherapy can be very effective in reducing asthma symptoms triggered by an allergy. Asthma patients under the care of an allergist have fewer hospitalizations, fewer visits to doctors' offices and hospital emergency rooms, a decreased number of sick days in the office or missed school days, and an increase in productivity.
Doctors point out allergy treatment is only one aspect of asthma management.
Patients still need to take other steps to control their disease and reduce the severity of asthma attacks. The information on this factsheet is not meant to substitute for a consultation with your physician or with another healthcare professional. Speak with your doctor if you have questions about Allergy Shots for Asthma, or any medical problem.