Pollen immunotherapy: who it suits and how long it takes

What it is

Allergen immunotherapy involves regular, long-term contact with a standardised allergen preparation. It gradually adjusts how the body's immune system responds to that allergen. The aim is to reduce symptoms and the need for symptom-relief medicines. It is a long-term approach that targets the cause, rather than something that removes current discomfort straight away.

Conditions that may make it suitable

• Symptoms are clearly linked to the pollen season, and relevant tests confirm sensitisation
• Symptoms still clearly affect daily life after environmental control and symptom-relief treatment
• You can keep to long-term regular treatment and attend follow-up visits
• There are no relevant contraindications, as decided by an allergy department doctor after assessment

Course of treatment and working together

The course of treatment is usually measured in years. It can be given as injections under the skin or as drops or tablets under the tongue, and the doctor will choose the form. During treatment you need to attend follow-up visits as planned. If local or whole-body side effects appear, report them promptly. Do not change the dose yourself. During treatment, reducing exposure in the pollen season and using medicines as prescribed should continue. All three work together. If your symptoms are clearly seasonal, the doctor may suggest starting before the season and continuing across it. Follow your doctor's instructions for the exact plan.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.