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Ibd Sufferers: You Can End the Struggle

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Ibd Sufferers: You Can End the Struggle

I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis eight years ago, and I was told that I would likely struggle with flare-ups for the rest of my life. I heard stories of other sufferers who had to eventually have their colons removed, and I became determined to not become part of this statistic. I was prescribed a daily medication that helps manage my condition, and although I don't like taking pills, I realize I need it to keep my colon healthy. I still experienced flares, so I began an elimination diet recommended by my doctor and found my "trigger" foods. I have now been flare-free for two years! I created this blog to help remind others with IBD that there is hope. You can end the constant struggle if you work with your doctor to try different methods of controlling your disease.

How To Move Through The Immunotherapy Buildup Phase Quickly

20 October 2017
 Categories: , Blog

If you have a seasonal allergy condition and want nothing more than to feel relief, then it is wise to speak with an allergist about immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is commonly referred to as the administration of allergy shots, and it is highly effective for most people who have seasonal allergies. Immunotherapy is a long term treatment, but many people want relief as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the initial buildup period can take some time. However, there are some things you can do to make the process go more quickly.

Opt For More Appointments

The buildup stage of immunotherapy involves exposing your body to small amounts of allergens over time, so your autoimmune system learns to stop overreacting to them. Shots are given and more and more allergens are placed in each injection. One shot is typically given every week, and the entire buildup phase is likely to last about six months.

You can cut down this time period substantially by scheduling your buildup shots more often. You can get two shots a week as long as you space them out about three to four days apart. Keep in mind that you will need to sit in the waiting room of your allergist's office for about 30 minutes after each injection. Waiting is necessary because you can have a reaction at any time during the immunotherapy. Most severe allergic reactions occur during this 30 minute period, and you will be in the waiting room and able to receive an injection of epinephrine to stop the reaction quickly. 

The wait period is something that always needs to be adhered to. Reactions are common during both the buildup and maintenance period of the allergy treatment. 

Ask About Cluster Immunotherapy

The traditional buildup period of immunotherapy takes time, even if you decide to get two shots each week. If you want a quicker result, then speak with your allergy doctor about cluster immunotherapy. The treatment involves multiple injections during your first day of immunotherapy. The process allows you to move through several months of buildup within a single day. The rest of the buildup will occur within the next few months with weekly injections.

You will need to stay at the physician's office for the entire day to receive the cluster treatment, so keep this in mind. Also, you may only be able to receive the quicker treatment if asthma symptoms are well controlled. 

Immunotherapy is a process that your allergy doctor can plan that will work best to control your specific allergy condition. Contact a clinic, like Mid America Ear, Nose, & Throat Clinic PC, to get started.