If you're putting a substance you're allergic to in your body, you might expect to have an allergic reaction. Most people experience a local reaction at the site of the injection, namely swelling and itching. Your doctor may recommend an antihistamine, ice, and elevation of the arm immediately following the injection. Some people may experience allergy-like symptoms after an injection such as runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and sneezing. Such symptoms only occur in approximately 200 out of 500 injections. Another possible and much more serious side effect of allergy shots is anaphylaxis (an-a-fi-LAX-is). Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction that causes a sudden severe drop in blood pressure, tightening of the airways, and swelling of the tongue and throat. However, this reaction only occurs in a small percentage of people. Your health care provider will probably request that you remain in the office for up to 30 minutes after each injection. For more information on allergy shots, contact an allergy specialist in your area.
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