Allergy Immunotherapy in Singapore

Causes sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip due to pollen, dust mites, mould, and pet dander. If untreated, it can lead to sinus infections, nasal polyps, and ear blockages. Immunotherapy reduces inflammation, providing long-term relief.

Allergies can worsen sinus infections, causing facial pain, congestion, and thick mucus. Immunotherapy reduces inflammation, improving sinus drainage and lowering infection risk.

Allergies can block the Eustachian tube, leading to ear fullness, muffled hearing, and fluid buildup. Immunotherapy reduces nasal and ear inflammation, improving ear function.

Often linked to rhinitis, causing red, itchy, and watery eyes from pollen, dust, and pet dander. Immunotherapy helps reduce sensitivity and flare-ups.

Chronic allergies can cause nasal polyps, leading to nasal obstruction, loss of smell, and sinus infections. Immunotherapy helps reduce inflammation and may prevent recurrence.

Nasal and sinus allergies can worsen asthma, making breathing more difficult. Immunotherapy helps reduce airway inflammation and improve asthma control.

SLIT involves placing allergen extracts under the tongue in tablet or liquid drop form. It is a self-administered daily treatment taken at home after an initial supervised dose. It is primarily used for grass pollen, dust mites, and ragweed allergies.

Both methods help reduce allergic reactions and prevent symptoms from worsening over time. The choice between SCIT and SLIT depends on the specific allergen, patient preference, and treatment goals.

A thorough evaluation is conducted to determine if immunotherapy is suitable. This includes allergy testing (skin prick or blood tests) to identify specific allergens and a medical history review to assess any existing conditions or medications that may affect treatment. Based on these findings, a personalised treatment plan is developed.

This phase gradually increases allergen exposure to help the immune system adapt.

For Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT – Allergy Shots): Small doses of the allergen are injected under the skin once or twice a week, with the concentration increasing over time. This phase typically lasts 3–6 months. After each injection, patients remain in the clinic for 30 minutes to monitor for any reactions.

For Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT – Allergy Drops/Tablets): The first dose is administered in a clinic under supervision. After that, patients continue daily self-administration at home.

Both methods help reduce allergic reactions and prevent symptoms from worsening over time. The choice between SCIT and SLIT depends on the specific allergen, patient preference, and treatment goals.

Once the optimal dose is reached, the frequency of treatment is reduced to maintain long-term immune tolerance.

• For SCIT: Injections are given once a month and continue for 3–5 years.
• For SLIT: Daily doses continue at home for a similar duration.

This phase helps reinforce allergen tolerance and gradually reduces symptoms.

Regular follow-ups are conducted to track progress, adjust doses, and manage any side effects. Over time, symptoms decrease, and many patients experience lasting relief even after stopping treatment.