What should you know about immunotherapy for asthma and allergic rhinitis?

Immunotherapy exposes the immune system to carefully measured amounts of an allergen over a planned course. It may be given by injections or dissolving medicine under the tongue, depending on the allergen and local practice. The aim is to reduce reactions to a trigger such as pollen, dust mites, or venom. It is considered after symptoms of allergic rhinitis remain troublesome despite appropriate avoidance and medicines, and after testing identifies a relevant allergen. It is not a replacement for an asthma reliever or preventer inhaler. Benefits develop gradually, and suitability varies between people.

Ask an allergy or respiratory clinician to confirm the trigger and review your inhaler technique, asthma control, medicines, and other allergies. Do not attend a treatment appointment during an asthma flare or significant infection without calling the clinic first. After a dose, remain under observation for the period advised by the team and report throat tightness, wheezing, dizziness, or widespread itching immediately. Continue prescribed asthma and rhinitis treatment unless your clinician changes it. Keep a record of symptoms, exposures, and doses so the response can be reviewed.

Use your asthma action plan and seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, inability to speak comfortably, blue lips, collapse, or symptoms that do not improve with your reliever as directed. After immunotherapy, treat sudden wheezing, throat or tongue swelling, faintness, or widespread hives as an emergency. Contact the clinic about a delayed reaction or symptoms that persist after leaving the treatment setting.

Which allergen has been confirmed, and is immunotherapy suitable for me? Which route and schedule are proposed? What should I do if asthma symptoms change before a dose? Which medicines should I continue on treatment days?