Allergies can affect the quality of life, no matter if they are seasonal or year-round. If you live in the deserted Arizona climate, you might have noticed that Phoenix allergies can be present throughout the whole year, which can put a damper on many people’s activities or day-to-day life. An allergist could advise you to get allergy shots to treat your symptoms, as its benefits can be long-lasting and life-changing for many.
What happens if it’s also the influenza season can you get an allergy shot after a flu shot?
Let’s take a closer look at everything related to allergy and flu shots.
What are allergy shots?
Simply put, allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a long-term treatment that can be prescribed and recommended by a board-certified allergist specialist, that can reduce your allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy can be more effective for seasonal allergies, but there is no general rule to it, as every patient is different.
Before getting an allergy shot, you will have to go through a series of tests to find out what is causing your allergies. Some of the most common factors can be pollen, dust mites, pet dander or mold. Based on the test results, a doctor will recommend the mixture for the allergy shot, which can gradually get stronger as you advance in the treatment. Immunotherapy is considered to be safe and effective, although there is no guaranteed outcome. Nonetheless, many people found that their allergies improve after getting immunotherapy treatment.
How often do you have to get allergy shots?
Typically, patients get shots 1-3 times per week, but this can vary and depends on each case. However, after reaching their maintenance dosage, patients can get allergy shots every 2-4 weeks after the first year. Treatment is recommended for 3-5 years to see the full clinical benefit.
What to do while on immunotherapy?
Some of the things to consider in making immunotherapy successful are the following:
- Do not skip shots as this can cause starting the treatment all over again.
- Do not get an allergy shot if you had a fever, asthma symptoms, or felt sick and notify your doctor immediately if you notice any reactions to them. Also, notify your physician if you get pregnant, as your dose might need to be adjusted.
- Keep taking your other prescribed allergy medicines as usual, as it could take months before your allergy symptoms start getting better.
- Our allergists have Epi-Pens on site and each patient must wait 30 minutes after each injection to be monitored.
Allergic reactions to Flu shots
The majority of flu shots contain egg proteins, such as ovalbumin, although in small quantities, due to their egg-based technology. This means that egg-allergic patients need to take extra precautions when taking the flu shot. However, even if you are allergic to eggs, this does not mean that you’ll also have an allergic reaction to the flu shot. Doctors no longer recommend avoiding flu vaccination for the sole reason they have an egg allergy.
Even if allergy to the flu vaccine only affects only one or two people out of every million doses, a serious allergic reaction can result in a potentially life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis, so make sure you seek emergency care if you develop any of the following symptoms after your flu shot: shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, nausea and vomiting, rash or hives, dizziness or confusion.
Can you get immunotherapy after the flu shot?
If you received a flu shot without adverse effects and you have to go in for your scheduled allergy shot after, you can get it administered. If you received any type of injection and want to know if it can affect your allergy shot, please consult with a board-certified allergist.
Conclusion
Allergen immunotherapy can be an effective treatment for many allergic conditions, and help improve the symptoms. If you are wondering whether you can get allergy shots after the flu shot, the simple answer is yes. Getting advice from a board-certified allergist specialist is strongly encouraged when it comes to getting immunotherapy treatment. Our team is here to guide you through the process, starting with getting tested and throughout the whole treatment.
Get in touch today and we will answer all your questions regarding allergies!
