Allergy drops are an effective and popular treatment for those seeking relief from allergies. Though allergy drops come with great benefits, from ease and efficacy, it is always essential to understand the safety profile of the allergy drops and the side effects that are likely to be induced. This article thoroughly reviews the safety of sublingual immunotherapy, from the common side effects to the risks compared with other allergy treatments and how to minimize them.
Allergy drops work by exposing the immune system to minute amounts of allergens. It could be pollen, house dust mites, or pet dander. Continuous exposure keeps the immune system desensitized, which minimizes the allergic response with time. Usually, the allergy drops are taken daily, and after some time, the quantity of the dosage is increased for the purposes of maintenance.
While generally well-tolerated, some side effects have been associated with allergy drops. The following are common side effects for most people using allergy drops:
Mild oral symptoms: Some people may get some form of mild oral symptoms, such as itchiness, tingling, or swelling in or around the mouth and throat. Spontaneous resolution is seen in usual cases, as is the case with most other allergy symptoms.
Gastrointestinal symptoms: Allergy drops can bring gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhea, among others. Generally, this is mild and can be mitigated with a change in dosage or time of drop administration.
Allergic reactions: In some very rare cases, the body's exposure to an allergy drop may result in different allergic reactions, like rashes, hives, swelling, wheezing, or anaphylaxis. Such reactions, though rare, are potential health hazards. Medical advice will be called for if symptoms appear after taking the allergy drop.
In comparison to side effects caused by allergy shots or any allergic reaction caused by antihistamines, the common side effects of allergy drops are milder. Allergy shots can also cause mild reactions at the site of injection, such as redness or swelling. Allergy shots also carry a bit higher danger of severe allergic reaction, also known as anaphylaxis, compared to allergy drops.
Antihistamines for allergies can make one drowsy and result in a dry mouth or even dizziness at times. These side effects are rare and in most instances, mild, but at times, they have caused a great deal of inconvenience to some individuals.
To minimize these side effects from allergy drops, one should follow their healthcare provider's instructions. This could include taking the drops by prescription, not overdosing the amount given, and avoiding interference with other drugs that one may be using. It may also be helpful to keep a diary, discussing everything with your healthcare provider, which would ensure the best and the safest use of the allergy drops.
To sum things up, allergy drops are a safe and effective method to treat allergies; however, all medicines do have a few side effects. The most common side effects that developed with the use of allergy drops included mild oral symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, and rare allergic reactions. Knowing this will help people know the side effects of allergy drops compared with the side effects of other common treatments for allergies and enable them to make an informed decision regarding the methods of their treatment.
