Allergy Shots (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
- Allergy Shots Overview
- How Do the Shots Work?
- Are Allergy Shots Right For You?
- What Does the Allergist Do?
- What Will the Shots Do For Me?
- Do the Shots Have Side Effects?
- For More Information
- Web Links
- Synonyms and Keywords
- Authors and Editors
- Pictures of Common Allergy Triggers - Slideshow

- Pictures of Pets and Allergies - Slideshow

- Pictures of Home Allegy - Slideshow

How Do the Shots Work?
Immunotherapy does not treat symptoms; it treats the immune system, the source of all allergic reactions. Although the exact details of how allergy shots work is unknown, we do know the general way they affect the immune system.
An allergic reaction occurs when the body is exposed to an external substance (the antigen) that the immune system interprets as a foreign invader. In allergic individuals, the immune system then makes an unusual (allergic) response that harms the body.
- The white blood cells produce an antibody to the antigen called immunoglobulin E, or IgE. This is called sensitization.
- When the antibody comes in contact with the antigen, it promotes release of certain chemicals called mediators into affected tissues. Histamine is an example of a mediator.
- It is the effects of mediators on organs and cells that cause the symptoms of allergic reactions.
- This overreaction to a harmless substance is often called a hypersensitivity reaction.
Next: Are Allergy Shots Right For You? »
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Rhinitis is defined as inflammation of the nasal membranes1 and is characterized by a symptom complex that consists of any combination of the following: sneezing, nasal congestion, nasal itching, and rhinorrhea.
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