How Does Desensitisation Therapy for Allergies Work?

Allergies are a common yet often disruptive part of life for many people, causing a wide range of symptoms from mild discomfort to life-threatening reactions. For those struggling to manage their symptoms, desensitisation therapy offers a promising solution. But how does this treatment work, and who can benefit from it? This blog explores the principles, process, and potential benefits of desensitisation therapy to provide clarity for anyone considering it.

Understanding Allergies

Before delving into desensitisation therapy, it’s helpful to understand what allergies are. Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances that are typically harmless, such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods. These substances, known as allergens, trigger the release of chemicals like histamine, causing symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, or even more severe reactions like anaphylaxis. While avoiding known allergens is often the first line of defence, it’s not always feasible or effective for everyone. This is where desensitisation therapy comes into play.

What Is Desensitisation Therapy?

Desensitisation therapy, also known as immunotherapy, is a medical treatment designed to reduce the body’s allergic response to specific allergens. It works by gradually exposing the immune system to small, controlled amounts of the allergen, helping it become less sensitive over time. The goal of this therapy is not necessarily to cure allergies but to reduce their severity, allowing individuals to live with fewer symptoms and less reliance on medications.

The Science Behind Desensitisation Therapy

The concept behind desensitisation therapy is rooted in how the immune system adapts to repeated exposure. By introducing allergens in controlled doses, the immune system begins to tolerate them rather than reacting defensively. Over time, the body produces fewer histamines and other chemicals responsible for allergic reactions. This process retrains the immune system, reducing its overreaction and providing long-term relief from allergy symptoms.

How Is Desensitisation Therapy Administered?

Desensitisation therapy can be delivered in two main ways:

1. Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT)
   This method involves regular injections of the allergen under the skin. Treatment begins with a build-up phase, where the dose is gradually increased over several months. Once the target dose is reached, the maintenance phase begins, requiring less frequent injections.
2. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)
   SLIT involves placing drops or tablets containing the allergen under the tongue. This method is often preferred for its convenience and is commonly used for allergens like grass and tree pollen.

The Stages of Desensitisation Therapy

1. Initial Assessment: Before starting therapy, an allergy specialist will perform tests to identify specific allergens and determine if desensitisation therapy is suitable.
2. Build-Up Phase: During this phase, patients are exposed to gradually increasing doses of the allergen, typically over 3–6 months. This stage is critical for helping the immune system adjust.
3. Maintenance Phase: Once the optimal dose is reached, the maintenance phase begins. This involves regular exposure to the allergen at the target dose, usually for 3–5 years.
4. Follow-Up and Monitoring: Regular follow-ups with a healthcare professional ensure the treatment is effective and that any potential side effects are managed.

Who Can Benefit from Desensitisation Therapy?

Desensitisation therapy is not suitable for everyone, but it can be highly effective for individuals with:

• Seasonal Allergies: Such as hay fever triggered by pollen.
• Perennial Allergies: Such as reactions to dust mites or pet dander.
• Insect Sting Allergies: Including severe reactions to bee or wasp stings.
  However, it’s less commonly used for food allergies due to the higher risk of severe reactions.

What Are the Benefits of Desensitisation Therapy?

For many, desensitisation therapy offers significant benefits, including:

• Symptom Relief: Reducing the frequency and severity of allergic reactions.
• Improved Quality of Life: Allowing individuals to enjoy activities previously limited by allergies.
• Reduced Dependence on Medication: Many patients report needing fewer antihistamines or other allergy treatments.
  In addition, the effects of desensitisation therapy can last for several years after treatment ends, making it a worthwhile long-term solution for managing allergies.

Are There Risks or Side Effects?

While desensitisation therapy is generally safe, it does carry some risks, particularly during the early stages when the immune system is still adjusting. Common side effects include:

• Local reactions at the injection site (for SCIT).
• Mild oral itching or swelling (for SLIT).

Severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, are rare but require immediate medical attention. This is why treatment is always administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

How Long Does It Take to See Results from Desensitisation Therapy?

The timeline for experiencing the benefits of desensitisation therapy varies from person to person. Several factors influence this, including:

• Type of Allergen: Different allergens may require varying durations for the immune system to adapt.
• Individual Immune Response: Some people respond more quickly to therapy than others.
• Method of Treatment: Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT) and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) may yield results on slightly different timelines.

General Expectations

• Build-Up Phase (3–6 months): Most patients begin noticing improvements in their symptoms during this phase as their immune system adjusts to the allergen.
• Maintenance Phase (1–3 years): Significant symptom relief is often experienced in the first year of maintenance, with continued progress over subsequent years.

Long-Term Benefits

Research indicates that the benefits of desensitisation therapy can last for several years after treatment has concluded. This extended relief can significantly improve quality of life, especially for individuals struggling with chronic allergies.

Patience and Commitment

It’s important to maintain consistency throughout the therapy. Missing doses or discontinuing treatment early may reduce its effectiveness. Regular follow-ups with your specialist ensure that your progress is monitored and that adjustments are made as needed.

By committing to the full course of treatment, you can achieve substantial and lasting improvements, regaining control over your allergy symptoms and enhancing your overall well-being.

Considering Desensitisation Therapy?

If you’ve struggled to manage your allergy symptoms and are looking for a long-term solution, desensitisation therapy might be the answer. It’s a carefully controlled and effective treatment designed to help your body adapt to allergens, offering relief and a better quality of life.

Contact Harley Street ENT Clinic today to book a consultation with our experienced specialists. Whether it’s allergy management, diagnostic tests, or other ENT concerns, our team is here to provide expert diagnosis and personalised treatment options tailored to your needs.