Spring has sprung and so have seasonal allergies!
With Spring upon us, brighter days and blossoms come with a major downside for many people who enjoy the outdoors but suffer from ALLERGIES. Wouldn’t it be great if you could prevent the storm of hay fever and the coma of anti-histamines?
The solution is simpler than you may think – a natural, personally customized liquid drops to desensitize your immune system to the allergen(s).
SLIT (sublingual immunotherapy) has been endorsed by the World Health Organization as a viable alternative to injection therapy for the treatment and resolution of airborne allergens. Used at John Hopkins Medical Center, SLIT is conveniently available to you at Port Moody Health.
There are no side effects to treatment, it’s simple to administer and, when taken overtime, can result in lasting immunity.
What is the cost of SLIT?
If you have an extended health plan, the cost of treatment is covered by your policy – up to 100% – since SLIT is considered a ‘medical prescription’. In addition, the cost of testing and visit with the naturopathic physician are often covered by your policy.
How long will it take to experience results?
It’s best to start the drops 4-8 weeks prior to the allergy season if you hope to prevent the immune reactions to allergens. Keep in mind, it takes 1-2 weeks to receive your customized solution after testing.
Treatment can be commenced later in the season, but you’ll suffer with hay-fever symptoms longer than if treatment was begun sooner. Typically within 1-4 weeks, you will notice a reduction in allergic symptoms.
As it takes time for the body to readjust and increase its natural immunity to the allergen, it is recommended to take these drops for a period of 3-5 years for lasting results.
What conditions can be helped by Sublingual Immunotherapy?
Allergic rhinitis, Allergic conjunctivitis, Allergic asthma, Seasonal allergies, Airborne allergies to dust, tree/grass/weed pollen, cat/dog dander, moulds.
Are there people who should be careful with this therapy?
Yes there are certain contraindications for sublingual immunotherapy. Individuals with unstable asthma, severe immunodeficiencies, malignancies, autoimmune disease and anyone taking beta-blockers, are not suitable candidates for this form of therapy.
Incorporating other methods of allergy prevention include: Avoidance of the allergen as much as possible, A good Spring cleaning routine around the house/workplace, Nasal irrigation methods such as the use of a Netipot etc. These are all great methods in helping reduce allergic symptoms in addition to Sublingual Immunotherapy.
Call the clinic at 604-949-0077 to book your SLIT appointment today!
