Immunotherapy for Allergies: Your Path to a Sneeze-Free 2026

Ever feel like your allergies seem to hang around longer than they did when you were younger? Or notice a friend who’s never had allergies before suddenly sneezing, itching, or breaking out just like you? You’re not alone. According to the 2025 report by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, more people are dealing with allergies than ever before.

So what’s going on? One major factor is our changing environment. The Climate Central Org says that due to warmer temperatures, the pollen season starts earlier and sticks around longer. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg; other allergy types are also on the rise, hitting more people in more ways.

Of course, you do your best to protect yourself and your loved ones, whether through professional treatments or trusted home remedies. But when nothing seems to work, it might be time to consider Allergy Immunotherapy (AIT). Why? This preventive treatment trains your body to handle allergens as it should, so instead of flaring up, your immune system learns to tolerate them, leading to fewer symptoms and longer-lasting relief.

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The Science of Feeling Better: Immunotherapy Explained

With what we already know about the allergy iceberg, let’s take a deeper dive. Allergy Immunotherapy (AIT) is the only treatment available that actually changes your immune system, helping prevent the development of new allergies and, by extension, the risk of asthma. But how does it affect your immune system, and is that change good or bad in the long run?

During treatment, whether you take the medication orally (tablets or drops) or receive injections, the allergen is slowly introduced to your immune system. Over time, this makes you less sensitive and encourages the production of “blocking” antibodies that aid in stopping allergic reactions from happening in the first place.

The big difference? Most allergy meds just manage symptoms when they pop up. AIT is a proactive approach. It trains your immune system to handle allergens normally, enabling long-term desensitization and providing relief that lasts beyond individual allergy attacks.

Types of Immunotherapy Available Today

There are two main ways specialists provide allergy immunotherapy:

1. Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT – Allergy Shots)These are the allergy shots you get in a clinic. Gradually, they introduce allergens under the skin so your body can build tolerance over time.
2. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT – Under-theTongue Tablets or Drops)Not a fan of injections? SLIT might be your best bet, as you can take them at home. You place tablets or drops under your tongue, and like SCIT, over time, your immune system learns to handle allergens better.

Essentially, both ways of allergy immunotherapy, shots and under-the-tongue options, work to retrain your immune system. Here’s a quick look at how they compare:

Who Benefits from Immunotherapy

Here’s the thing: AIT is appealing because your allergist can tailor it to fit your lifestyle. But how can you be sure that it’s right for you? The best way to find out is to consult a board-certified allergy and immunology doctor.

Here’s a quick checklist before you book an appointment:

Are you an adult with chronic seasonal allergies?
Is your child developing allergies?
Is your medication not working well?
Do you want long-term relief and are tired of quick fixes?

If you’ve checked any of these boxes, immunotherapy could be a great fit for you or your loved one!

Still wondering if it really works? Here’s what you can expect from this long-term allergy treatment:

Your Immunotherapy Journey

Immunotherapy might sound intimidating, but the process is straightforward. Let’s walk through what you can expect during your journey.

1. Your Diagnostic Testing and Personalized Plan

Before treatment begins, your allergist will first find out what’s causing your allergies. This can be in the form of skin or blood tests. Then they will create a plan tailored just for you, so your treatment targets the key allergens in an environment you find most comfortable.

2. Your Treatment Timeline: Months 1–12

Allergy Immunotherapy is a step-by-step process In the first few months (buildup phase), you’ll start with low doses that will, in time, slowly increase. By your 6th to 12th month, you may notice fewer symptoms and less need for medications. Once you reach the maintenance phase, your doses stay steady.

Remember: You won’t be allergy-free overnight, but slow and steady is what brings sneeze-, itch-, and breakout-free seasons.

Experience Lasting Allergy Relief at BV Allergy

At Brazos Valley Allergy & Asthma Clinics, our board-certified allergist and immunologist, Dr. Paul Jantzi, leads a dedicated team that puts your health first. We’re committed to helping you live your best life, allergy-free.

• Customized Treatment Plans for All Ages

  Every patient is unique, so we provide allergy testing and treatment plans tailored to your specific allergies, lifestyle, and needs.

• State-of-the-Art Diagnostic Tools

  Using the latest testing technology, we accurately pinpoint your triggers to ensure your treatment is precise and effective.

• Expert Care from Board-Certified Allergists

  With years of experience, our allergists provide knowledgeable, compassionate care, guiding you every step of the way toward lasting relief.

Start 2026 with Healthier Breathing and Fewer Allergies

2026 is here, and your New Year’s resolution is still up in the air? Make your health your top priority. Start your January right with an appointment at Brazos Valley Allergy & Asthma Clinics so you can breathe fresh air all year long, no matter which seasonal allergens come your way.

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Frequently Asked Questions