Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)
For Kids in Long Beach, Torrance & Fountain Valley
For Kids in Long Beach, Torrance & Fountain Valley
For many children in Long Beach, Torrance, and Fountain Valley, CA, chronic allergies present ongoing challenges, from disrupted sleep and diminished school performance to reduced participation in activities.
At Lung & Allergy Health Associates, we offer subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT). This targeted treatment addresses the root cause of allergic reactions, helping children build tolerance and achieve lasting relief from environmental allergens.
Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) involves administering gradual doses of allergens through injections to desensitize the immune system. The goal is to build tolerance and reduce sensitivity to triggers such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. SCIT is often referred to as allergy shots and is recognized as a long-term treatment option that modifies the underlying allergic response rather than simply controlling symptoms.
Parents considering SCIT for their children in Long Beach, Torrance, or Fountain Valley can observe several advantages:
SCIT is used to address several allergic conditions in children, including:
Children who display persistent symptoms despite medication or who experience adverse effects from medications may be candidates for SCIT allergy therapy or other pediatric immunology therapies at LAHA.
Children who experience persistent allergy symptoms despite using conventional allergy medications may be suitable candidates for SCIT. This treatment is recommended for those diagnosed with allergic rhinitis or asthma triggered by environmental allergens. Before starting SCIT, children undergo thorough allergy testing at LAHA to identify specific allergens and assess their suitability for immunotherapy.
The SCIT treatment process involves two main phases: build-up and maintenance. In the build-up phase, children receive injections of gradually increasing allergen extract 1-2 times weekly. This phase typically lasts 3-6 months, progressively allowing the immune system to adapt to the allergens.
Once the highest tolerated dose, known as the maintenance dose, is reached, the frequency of injections decreases. In the maintenance phase, injections are given approximately every 3-4 weeks. This phase continues for 3-5 years, crucial for achieving and sustaining long-term immune modification and symptom reduction. Each injection is given in a controlled clinical environment at LAHA, with staff monitoring for immediate reactions.
Immediately after an SCIT injection, children are typically observed at the clinic for 20-30 minutes to monitor for immediate reactions. Local reactions, such as redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site, are common and usually mild, resolving within a few hours. Systemic reactions, though rare, are promptly managed by our trained medical staff.
During the build-up phase, parents may notice a gradual reduction in their child’s allergy symptoms. Significant and lasting improvement is typically observed during maintenance, often after 6-12 months of consistent treatment. The full benefits of SCIT are generally realized after 2-3 years of treatment, with many children experiencing continued relief even after discontinuing the shots.
The cost of subcutaneous immunotherapy for children varies depending on individual insurance coverage and the specific treatment plan.
Initially, a consultation and allergy testing are performed to determine the precise allergens and customize the treatment. We can assist with verifying insurance benefits and provide an estimate of out-of-pocket expenses for the allergy extracts and administration visits.
Lung & Allergy Health Associates combines extensive clinical experience with a patient-centered approach across our four locations. Our dedicated team provides a pediatric-focused approach to ensure that the assessment, treatment, and ongoing monitoring of subcutaneous immunotherapy align with current medical best practices.
We provide comprehensive allergy testing, clear communication regarding SCIT protocols, and continuous support throughout treatment. Our clinics maintain safe injection procedures and emergency readiness measures, offering families a reliable and reassuring children’s immunotherapy clinic setting.
Some children notice symptom improvement within the first year of treatment, but optimal results usually occur after 3-5 years of consistent SCIT. The immune system gradually adapts to allergens over time.
Not all children are candidates; suitability depends on allergy type, severity, and overall health. A thorough evaluation is necessary before initiating therapy.
Mild local reactions, including redness or itching at the injection site, are common. Severe systemic reactions are rare and managed promptly with medical oversight.
SCIT modifies the immune system to reduce symptoms but does not provide a cure. It offers long-term reduction in allergic sensitivity with ongoing treatment.
Begin managing your child’s allergies with SCIT in Long Beach, Torrance, or Fountain Valley, CA. Schedule a consultation with Lung & Allergy Health Associates to discuss whether pediatric allergy shots are suitable for your child. Take the next step toward long-term allergy symptom control.
