Allergy shots, also known as subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), are a long-term treatment for environmental allergies. Unlike medications that temporarily relieve symptoms, allergy shots work by retraining the immune system to become less sensitive to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. This service is ideal for patients who want lasting relief rather than ongoing symptom control.

How It Works / What to Expect?

Allergy shots work by gradually exposing your immune system to small, controlled amounts of the allergens that trigger your symptoms. Over time, your body learns to tolerate these allergens instead of overreacting to them.

The injections are given just under the skin of the upper arm using a very small needle. Most patients describe the sensation as a brief pinch. Visits are short, and patients are monitored after each injection to ensure safety.

Types of Treatment

Allergy shot treatment occurs in two phases:

Build-Up Phase

• Injections are given once or twice weekly
• Doses are gradually increased to help your body safely adjust

Maintenance Phase (typically 3 – 5 years)

• Injections are spaced out to every 2 – 4 weeks
• Most patients notice significant improvement within the first year

Who Should Consider This Service?

Allergy shots may be recommended if you:

• Continue to have symptoms despite allergy medications
• Want to reduce or stop daily allergy pills or nasal sprays
• Have asthma triggered by environmental allergies
• React strongly to pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander
• Cannot avoid allergen exposure, which is common in the Central Valley

Allergy shots are not used to treat food allergies.