Reduce allergy symptoms at the source with allergy shots that retrain your immune system to tolerate triggers like pollen and dust mites. Dr. Ryan E. Stern, our board-certified ENT, offers personalized immunotherapy to help you breathe easier long term, naturally.
Reduce Allergy Symptoms at the Source
Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, are a long-term treatment administered to reduce how strongly your body reacts to allergens. They work by exposing your immune system to very small, controlled amounts of triggers like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold. Over time, your immune system becomes less sensitive, leading to fewer symptoms. Allergy shots don’t just mask symptoms: they address the underlying cause of allergic reactions.
What Do Allergy Shots Treat?
Allergies develop when your immune system overreacts to everyday substances that are normally harmless, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. Instead of ignoring these triggers, your body releases chemicals that cause ongoing inflammation and uncomfortable symptoms. When allergies are chronic, they can affect how you sleep, breathe, focus, and enjoy daily life.
By gradually retraining your immune system, allergy shots can help reduce many of the symptoms associated with long-term allergic reactions, including:
- Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Frequent sneezing or an itchy nose
- Runny nose or post-nasal drip
- Itchy, watery, or irritated eyes
- Sinus pressure or facial discomfort
- Ongoing allergy symptoms despite medication
Key Benefits of Allergy Shots
Allergy shots offer a proven, long-term approach to managing allergies by addressing the root cause.
Over time, this treatment can lead to meaningful improvements in how you feel and function day to day, including:
- Reduced sensitivity to specific allergens
- Fewer and less severe allergy symptoms
- Decreased reliance on daily allergy medications
- Long-lasting relief that continues after treatment ends
- Improved comfort in everyday environments
Your Allergy Shots Experience
Your experience begins with a thorough consultation with Dr. Stern, who takes the time to understand your symptoms, triggers, and how allergies are affecting your daily life. You’ll then undergo detailed allergy testing to pinpoint the specific substances, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, that are driving your reactions. Dr. Stern designs a personalized immunotherapy plan to ensure the treatment targets the root cause rather than just masking symptoms.
Your treatment involves a series of small injections given in your upper arm that contain carefully measured amounts of your allergens. You’ll start with weekly injections during a build-up phase, allowing your immune system to adjust gradually to the allergens. As your tolerance improves, visits become less frequent and move into a monthly maintenance phase. Over time, you’ll notice fewer symptoms and more consistent, long-term relief.
Results From Allergy Shots
The results from allergy shots develop gradually as your immune system becomes less reactive to specific allergens. Many patients begin to notice improvements within the first few months of treatment, often during the build-up phase when injections are given weekly. As your body adjusts, symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes become less frequent.
Long-term results can be significant and lasting. After reaching the maintenance phase, injections are usually spaced out to once a month while maintaining symptom control. Many patients experience lasting improvement after completing their full course of immunotherapy. However, occasional maintenance visits may help preserve the results over time.
Why Choose Dr. Stern?
Dr. Ryan E. Stern is a board-certified ENT and subspecialty-trained rhinologist with more than 25 years of experience caring for patients with complex nasal, sinus, and allergy conditions. For nearly three decades, he has served the Pacific Northwest with a patient-first philosophy rooted in treating each individual like family. Dr. Stern takes time to listen, educate, and tailor care to your specific needs. If you’re considering allergy shots, schedule your consultation with Dr. Stern in Auburn or Federal Way, WA, today.
