How Immunotherapy Helps Treat Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma 
Allergic rhinitis and asthma are two of the most common respiratory conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. These conditions are often triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander, leading to sneezing, congestion, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. While antihistamines, nasal sprays, and inhalers provide temporary relief, immunotherapy offers a long-term solution by addressing the root cause of these allergic reactions. 

What is Immunotherapy? 
Immunotherapy is a treatment that helps the immune system become less sensitive to allergens over time. It works by gradually exposing the body to small, controlled amounts of the allergen, helping it build tolerance and reduce allergic reactions. This treatment is commonly used for allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and allergic asthma, providing long-lasting relief for many patients. 

There are two main types of Immunotherapies- 

Allergy Shots (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy - SCIT) – Involves injecting small doses of allergens under the skin. 
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) – Involves taking allergen-based drops or tablets under the tongue. 

How Immunotherapy Helps with Allergic Rhinitis? 
Allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens, causing nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. Immunotherapy helps by: 

Reducing Sensitivity: It trains the immune system to tolerate allergens, decreasing the severity of symptoms over time. 
Minimizing Medication Dependence: Many patients require fewer antihistamines and nasal sprays after undergoing immunotherapy. 
Providing Long-Term Relief: Unlike temporary symptom relief from medications, immunotherapy provides lasting results even after treatment stops. 
Studies show that immunotherapy can reduce allergic rhinitis symptoms by up to 80%, significantly improving quality of life. 

How Immunotherapy Benefits Asthma Patients? 
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes airway inflammation and constriction, leading to breathing difficulties. Allergic asthma, triggered by allergens, is one of the most common types. Immunotherapy helps manage asthma by: 

Reducing Inflammation: It decreases the immune system’s overreaction to allergens, lowering airway inflammation. 
Improving Lung Function: Studies suggest that patients experience fewer asthma attacks and better breathing after immunotherapy. 
Lowering the Need for Inhalers and Steroids: Many patients find they rely less on rescue inhalers and long-term steroid treatments. 
Preventing Asthma Progression: Early immunotherapy treatment can prevent mild asthma from becoming severe. 

Who Can Benefit from Immunotherapy? 
Immunotherapy is recommended for individuals who: 

Experience severe allergic rhinitis or asthma symptoms that impact daily life. 
Do not respond well to conventional medications. 
Want a long-term solution for allergy and asthma management. 
Are exposed to unavoidable allergens, such as pet dander or pollen. 

Final Thoughts 
Immunotherapy is a game-changer in the treatment of allergic rhinitis and asthma, offering long-term relief by modifying the immune system’s response to allergens. Under the guidance of a specialist like Dr. Swetha Chandrasekaran, patients can explore this highly effective treatment to breathe easier and live allergy-free. 

If you or a loved one struggles with allergies or asthma, consult  https://www.linqmd.com/doctor/swetha-chandrasekaran to see if immunotherapy is the right solution for you.