Allergy shots require a regular commitment of visiting a health professional for weekly, bi-weekly or monthly injections over several years. It's a significant obligation but the results can be dramatic for certain people.

You may want to consider immunotherapy if:

• Your symptoms are severe and fairly constant. If you suffer only a month out of the year, it's probably not worth the investment, but if you're miserable for eight months out of the year, you may want to consider allergy shots.
• You have a severe reaction to bee or wasp stings. In these instances, shots can reduce the reaction — and can even be lifesaving.
• You are a young and otherwise healthy person who suffers from environmental allergies, including allergies to pollen, mold, and dust.
• You suffer from persistent symptoms despite prescription medications.
• You experience side-effects from medications.
• You are a few years away from becoming pregnant and don't want to take allergy medications while pregnant.

If these describe you, consult an allergist to discuss whether you might be a good candidate for immunotherapy. You can then schedule testing to determine the allergens to which you are sensitive.