Desensitisaatiohoidot

Desensitisaatiohoidot, often referred to as immunotherapy or allergy shots, are a medical treatment designed to reduce an individual's allergic reaction to specific substances. This therapy involves gradually exposing the patient to increasing doses of an allergen, such as pollen, dust mites, or insect venom, under strict medical supervision. The goal is to retrain the immune system to become less sensitive to these triggers over time.

The process typically begins with a small, diluted dose of the allergen, administered via injection. This dose is slowly increased over several weeks or months during a build-up phase. Once a maintenance dose is reached, which is the highest dose the patient can tolerate without significant reaction, the injections are given less frequently, often every few weeks or months, for a period of several years.

Desensitisaatiohoidot are most commonly used for IgE-mediated allergies that have not responded adequately to avoidance measures or medication, or when those treatments cause undesirable side effects. It is particularly effective for allergies to stinging insects, certain inhaled allergens like pollen and dust mites, and can be considered for some food allergies. The treatment requires commitment and careful monitoring due to the potential for allergic reactions, even with gradual exposure. While not a cure, desensitisation can significantly reduce the severity of allergic symptoms, improve quality of life, and potentially prevent the development of new allergies or asthma.