Health Tip: Things to Consider Before Allergy Shots

(HealthDay News) -- Allergy shots help ease symptoms for people who have chronic allergies.

The shots contain small amounts of allergens to which the recipient reacts. After repeated exposure to the allergens, the immune system is better able to fight the things that make the person sneeze, wheeze and cough.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this advice about allergy shots:

• People aged 6 and older are eligible for the shots. But the shots may not be recommended for those with severe asthma, heart problems, if they take beta blockers, or who are pregnant.
• People typically get shots every week for the first six months. The doctor may then gradually reduce the frequency of the shots over time.
• Allergy shots generally are safe. But they contain small amounts of things to which you're allergic, which may trigger a reaction. You should immediately report any type of reaction to your doctor.