What Are Allergy Drops?

Allergy drops, also known as sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), is a treatment that involves placing drops of allergen extracts under the tongue. These allergens could include dust mites, pollen, mold, pet dander, or certain foods. The goal of allergy drops is to gradually build up your body’s tolerance to these allergens, thereby reducing your allergy symptoms over time.

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How Do Allergy Drops Work?

Like allergy shots, allergy drops expose your immune system to small amounts of the allergen, which helps your body build tolerance. The process involves two phases: the escalation phase and the maintenance phase. During the escalation phase, the allergen concentration in the drops will gradually increase. Once the effective dose is reached, the maintenance phase begins. During this phase, the dosage of the allergen remains consistent.

Benefits of Allergy Drops

Effectiveness:

Allergy drops can be very effective for treating allergic rhinitis due to ragweed, some grasses, and dust mites.

Versatility:

Sublingual drops can be used to treat a variety of allergies in most patients, from infants to adults.

Convenience:

Unlike allergy shots, allergy drops can be taken at home, making treatment more convenient, especially for those with busy schedules.

Fewer side effects:

Allergy drops are associated with fewer side effects than allergy shots.

Builds immunity:

Like allergy shots, allergy drops expose you to small doses of antigens that gradually help you build a tolerance against the allergens.

Builds immunity:

Like allergy shots, allergy drops expose you to small doses of antigens that gradually help you build a tolerance against the allergens.

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Are Allergy Drops Right for Me?

Allergy drops could be a good choice if you find regular allergy shots inconvenient or uncomfortable with needles. They’re also an excellent option for children who may have anxiety about injections. However, it’s important to discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history with one of our experienced allergists to determine if allergy drops are the best treatment for you.

What to Expect with Allergy Drops?

Allergy drops are typically taken at home, making them a convenient option for many patients. The drops are placed under the tongue and held for about 2 minutes before swallowing. This process is typically repeated once daily. 

What to Expect After Your Allergy Drops?

After taking your allergy drops, you may experience mild side effects like itching or swelling in the mouth or under the tongue. These symptoms usually subside on their own after a short while. 

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Why Choose Us?

Southern ENT Associates is a leading network of ENT providers across 6 locations in Louisiana and growing. Our team of experienced allergists provides world-class care for all ages, and we pride ourselves on our easy access, same-day appointments, and friendly staff. 

We offer allergy drops as part of our comprehensive range of services and treatments for allergies, providing our patients with the benefit of every ENT specialty under one roof. Our fellowship-trained and board-certified physicians deliver the pinnacle of ENT expertise, tracing back your symptoms to their source for long-term relief.

Our patient-first philosophy means we spend time understanding your needs so we can direct care to you as an individual. We believe in putting the power of health back in your hands. It’s genuine one-on-one care delivered with a warm bedside manner. Choose Southern ENT Associates for your allergy drops and experience the difference of being part of our family. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Allegry Drops FAQ

Are allergy drops safe?

Yes, allergy drops have been deemed safe for both adults and children. They have been used in Europe for decades and extensively studied for their safety and effectiveness. As with all treatments, there may be some side effects, but these are typically mild and include itching or swelling in the mouth or under the tongue.

What are the side effects of allergy drops?

Some common side effects include itching and swelling in the mouth or under the tongue. These are usually mild and go away on their own. More severe reactions are rare but can include hives or wheezing.

How long does it take for allergy drops to work?

The length of treatment can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the allergies. Some people may see improvement within a few months, while others may need to continue treatment for a few years to achieve maximum benefit.

Can children use allergy drops?

Yes, allergy drops are safe for children. They are often preferred for children afraid of needles or who have difficulty with the regular office visits required for allergy shots.

Can I take allergy drops at home?

One of the main advantages of allergy drops is that they can be administered at home. However, your first dose will typically be administered at Southern ENT Associates so we can monitor for adverse reactions.

Will I still need to take allergy medication if I use allergy drops?

Allergy drops aim to address the root cause of your allergies and reduce your symptoms over time. As your body builds up a tolerance to the allergen, you may find that you can reduce the need for other allergy medication.

With 6 convenient locations in Southern Louisiana, we make accessing the treatment you need easy.

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