What Are Allergy Shots?
Why Allergy Testing Matters at All Star Spine Center
You might wonder; what do allergies have to do with non-surgical orthopedic care? More than you think. Allergies, whether seasonal, environmental, or food-related, can trigger widespread inflammation in the body. This inflammation doesn’t just cause the typical sneezing or itching, it can also worsen joint pain, muscle stiffness, and other orthopedic conditions. For many patients, undiagnosed allergies contribute to chronic inflammation that slows healing and exacerbates pain. By identifying and addressing these hidden triggers through allergy testing, we take a whole-body approach to your care, helping reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and support lasting relief.
How Do Allergy Shots Work?
Build-up Phase (Initial Phase)
Maintenance Phase
What to Expect When Getting Allergy Shots
Before the Shot: Your allergist will evaluate your allergy history and perform skin tests or blood tests to identify the specific allergens that trigger your reactions.
During the Shot: The allergy shot will be administered as an injection under the skin, typically in your upper arm. The shot itself only takes a few minutes, but you’ll need to wait in the doctor’s office for 20-30 minutes after the injection to monitor for any immediate reactions.
After the Shot: Most people experience no or minimal side effects. However, mild reactions such as redness or swelling at the injection site may occur. Serious reactions are rare but can include anaphylaxis, which is why it’s important to stay in the office for observation after receiving a shot.
Who Can Benefit from Allergy Shots?
Allergy shots are most beneficial for people with moderate to severe allergies who:
- Experience persistent allergy symptoms (e.g., sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion) despite using medications.
- Have allergies to environmental triggers like pollen, mold, pet dander, or dust mites.
- Want to reduce their reliance on allergy medications.
- Are unable to avoid allergens due to lifestyle, work, or home environment (e.g., pet owners or people with pollen exposure).
Are Allergy Shots Right for You?
- Have year-round or seasonal environmental allergies.
- Are not able to control their allergy symptoms with over-the-counter medications or avoidance strategies.
- Do not have severe asthma or other conditions that might make the shots risky.
Possible Side Effects
Although allergy shots are generally safe, they can cause some side effects, most of which are mild. These may include redness or swelling at the injection site, itchy eyes, nose, or throat, and sneezing or a runny nose. In rare instances, more serious reactions can occur, such as severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. If you experience any of these severe symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. To ensure your safety, your doctor will closely monitor you after each injection, allowing for prompt treatment in case of any adverse reactions.
Why Choose All Star Health?
Get Back in the Game
You don’t have to live with pain—acute or chronic. At All Star Health, we are ready to help you recover, perform better, and enjoy life without limitations. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at our Tempe or Gilbert locations and let’s work together to get you back into the game!
Phone: 844-844-4755
TEMPE LOCATION
6625 South Rural Road, #104 Tempe, AZ 85283
GILBERT LOCATION
2730 South Val Vista Dr #188, Gilbert, AZ 85295