What is Allergy Immunotherapy?

Allergy immunotherapy, or AIT, is a fancy term for allergy shots or drops. AIT uses allergy testing results to develop a unique serum tailored to each patient’s allergies.  

How does allergy testing work?

Allergies are caused when our body’s immune system produces an antibody called IgE to substances in the environment. These substances, such as pollen or molds, contain proteins that activate the immune system and cause the release of histamine as well as many other substances.  When we perform allergy testing, we are looking to see if IgE is present to environmental allergens. At Peak Rejuvenation we perform Modified Quantitative Testing. This form of skin testing combines two techniques, traditional skin prick testing, and more sensitive intradermal testing. This technique provides precise results of not just what a patient is allergic to, but more importantly, their level of sensitivity.  Using this detailed approach, we can develop a comprehensive plan for treatment. Another option for testing is blood testing. This test measures the level of IgE in the blood to determine allergy. It is typically reserved for patients that cannot undergo skin testing.

How do you treat allergies?

The treatment of allergies usually requires a multipronged approach. Avoidance, if possible, provides the best outcomes. Medications may be needed for some patients. In patients where medications and avoidance are ineffective, or symptoms are severe, immunotherapy offers the best long-term control of symptoms. With immunotherapy we use your allergy testing results to develop a serum that is administered either by injection or with drops under the tongue. Although immunotherapy is the closet to a “cure” for allergies it requires significant patient compliance to be effective. The treatment typically last for 3-5 years and shots are given once per week while drops are taken once a day.

The doctors and staff at Peak Rejuvenation are ready to help you reach your Peak. If you are an allergy sufferer and are dissatisfied with your symptoms call our office today for an evaluation.  Visit our website at www.peakrejuvenation.com or call 970-259-5990.