Best Allergy Treatments in the Atlanta Area
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center offers various allergy treatment solutions at our Atlanta area centers. With exposure to allergens causing everything from mild to severe reactions, patients need an allergy treatment plan to protect themselves.
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center uses allergy testing to accurately diagnose the condition and build a long-term plan that reduces health risks. And as the prevalence of childhood allergies increases, it is more important than ever to seek the guidance of an experienced allergy doctor.
Our Allergy Treatment Immunotherapy Services
After comprehensive allergy testing, our allergy treatments are tailored to the needs of each patient. For effective long-term relief from symptoms, we may recommend an immunotherapy desensitization process. Here are some of the allergy treatments we provide.
Immunotherapy Treatment
Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is the process of desensitizing the immune system with periodic injections. The shots contain small amounts of an allergen that stimulate the immune system without causing a severe reaction. Patients receive weekly allergy shots for around six months, with maintenance doses continuing for at least another year. As the dose level increases, the immune system builds tolerance to the presence of allergens in the body.
Oral Immunotherapy Treatment
Oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT) follows a similar process to traditional immunotherapy, but is aimed at food allergies. Patients consume small amounts of a particular food – such as peanuts, tree nuts, eggs or milk – in gradually increasing doses. After approximately six months to one year, individuals reach a substantial maintenance dose that will not trigger an allergic reaction.
Rush Immunotherapy Treatment
Rush immunotherapy is an alternative approach to allergy shots. Instead of a 6-month buildup phase, rush immunotherapy requires just one or two days to reach the maintenance dose. During this phase patients receive allergy shots during scheduled intervals, with close monitoring to ensure no adverse side effects. The maintenance doses then ensure that a patient continues to remain desensitized to the allergen.
Common Questions About Allergy Treatments
Is rush immunotherapy risky?
Rush immunotherapy is safe but won’t be appropriate for all patients – it is usually limited to certain allergies like insect stings. Due to an increased chance of anaphylaxis, allergists will need to first determine whether you are a suitable candidate.
Will allergies return after completing immunotherapy?
After completing the first phase of immunotherapy or oral immunotherapy, patients must follow a maintenance dose schedule for a few years to retain immune system tolerance. This practice offers the highest chance of long-term desensitization.
Can immunotherapy prevent my allergy from developing into other allergies?
Yes. Immunotherapy can prevent an allergy from developing into additional allergies, known as cross-reactivity. Immunotherapy is also effective in preventing the development of asthma.
Professional Allergy Treatment and Immunotherapy in Atlanta and Beyond
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center delivers allergy testing services and proven allergy treatments. To start treating your allergy, visit one of our allergy treatment centers in the Atlanta area. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
