Allergies affect nearly a third of seniors. Some have seasonal allergies that flare up during the spring when pollen is at its peak. Others have year-round allergies to things like pollen, dust, or pets. Regardless of the type of allergy, the resulting symptoms can be irritating at best.
That’s where allergy immunotherapy comes in. It can help keep those symptoms in check by treating the allergy itself. But is it the right choice for seniors? Let’s find out.
What is Allergy Immunotherapy?
Allergy immunotherapy (AIT) is a treatment designed to desensitize the immune system to a particular allergen. It works by repeatedly exposing the body to that allergen by administering it via an injection, tablet, or drops.
To understand how it works, we need to grasp the basics of an allergy. An allergy is the immune system’s response to a foreign substance it deems harmful. This foreign substance, called an allergen, is usually completely harmless. However, since the immune system flags it as hazardous, your body reacts accordingly.
Your body produces antibodies, blood proteins that counteract a specific antigen. These antibodies spring into action when you’re exposed to an allergen, communicating with cells that release specific chemicals. That chemical release triggers the symptoms you recognize as an allergic reaction.
So, to combat that reaction, allergy immunotherapy slowly works to reduce the production of those “blocking” antibodies. It does this by delivering a small, incrementally increasing dose of the allergen to your body. This exposure helps “train” your body, giving your immune system ample time to build an allergen-specific tolerance.
With time and consistency, the treatment can greatly improve your allergic symptoms. You might even be able to be around the allergen with little to no allergic response. Of course, each person is different, so it can vary.
Types of AIT
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) and subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) are the two types of AIT. The former, SLIT, is administered under the tongue via drops or tablets. It’s a great option for seniors, as it can be administered easily from home. It presents little risk of adverse reaction and doesn’t require a doctor for administration, so there’s no need to make an extra visit to your doctor’s office.
The second type, SCIT, is administered under the skin via an injection. This option is the most common of the pair for adults. However, it presents a higher risk of adverse side effects, so injections must be administered at a doctor’s office. On top of that, you’ll need to hang around for monitoring a while after the injection.
Both are highly effective, but each can be better suited to different individuals.
Allergy Immunotherapy vs. Other Allergy Treatments
There are all sorts of allergy treatments out there. Unfortunately, most treatments only offer short-term relief. For example, you might get corticosteroids, antihistamines, or decongestants to help with your allergy symptoms. While the amount of time they last can vary based on the product, they usually only last 24 to 48 hours.
That’s where allergy immunotherapy sparkles. It’s a long-term solution. While it takes time for the results to appear, they last much longer. Some people may only need a couple of years of treatment to enjoy the results indefinitely.
It all comes down to what you expect and the effort you’re willing to put in. If you want a quick, temporary solution, traditional treatments are a good option. You can usually get these over the counter at most drug and grocery stores.
On the other hand, if you’re sick of relying on treatments that only last a few days and are willing to commit to a treatment plan, allergy immunotherapy is a great option. It’ll take a few years for results to appear, but once they do, you can enjoy those benefits long-term.
Does Allergy Immunotherapy Actually Work for Seniors?
Allergy immunotherapy has been heavily researched in people from all walks of life, including seniors. It has been proven to be highly effective time and time again for kiddos and seniors alike. There are hundreds of studies and trials out there that showcase this efficacy, many of which are readily available online.
For example, a European study compared an AIT-treated group to a control group. It found that the former had a much higher likelihood of stepping down asthma treatment than the control. It also discovered that AIT-treated individuals were consistently associated with more substantial reductions in allergic rhinitis and asthma prescriptions than the control group.
A group of research and clinical trials further backs up these findings. These particular trials honed in on subcutaneous injections (allergy shots) and their ability to achieve an allergen-specific tolerance. They found that the injections can successfully achieve an allergen-specific tolerance that remains for years after discontinuing treatment.
So, yes, allergy immunotherapy does actually work, even for seniors. Of course, everybody is different, so results can vary. You might begin to notice improvements within the first year, while someone else might take a little longer to see results. However, in general, the best results usually show up in years two and three.
The Verdict: Is Allergy Immunotherapy a Good Idea for Seniors?
Allergy immunotherapy is a promising option for seniors struggling with allergies. It can be a long-term solution that has been proven to be highly effective in allergic symptoms. While it takes time to see results, the effort can be well worth it.
Of course, as with any medical decision, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. This way, you can get professional input on the right choice based on your individual health history. Always seek medical advice before starting any new treatment.