Should You Get Steroid Shots for Allergies?

Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, are a series of injections that are given over many months to years. What's often referred to as a three-month allergy shot, on the other hand, is a single, long-acting corticosteroid injection, such as Kenalog (triamcinolone). Many people swear by these long-acting steroid shots as a great way to get through their allergy season symptom-free. However, frequent use of such medications, even once a year, can cause serious complications in the long run.

Long-acting steroid shots are designed to slowly release the prescribed steroid dosage in your body. They treat allergy symptoms by decreasing inflammation throughout the body. The downside: The steroid affects other areas of the body, not just the nose, and may cause significant short- and long-term side effects.

Side effects that may occur right away as a result of steroid shots include:

• Increased appetite
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
• Changes in mood and behavior
• Flushing (redness) of the face
• Short-term weight gain due to increased water retention

If you have an underlying medical condition, you may notice additional side effects from steroid shots. Each chronic condition has different effects and they may include: 

• Diabetes mellitus: an increase in your blood sugar readings 
• High blood pressure: blood pressure readings may rise 
• Glaucoma: an increase in the pressures within your eyes
• Congestive heart failure: water retention or worsening of the condition 

If you have been diagnosed with a chronic health condition, let your allergist or physician know when discussing your allergy treatment plan. 

When steroid shots are used frequently or for long periods of time, more serious side effects may occur. Potential side effects of long-term steroid injection use may include:

• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Diabetes mellitus
• Obesity
• Osteoporosis
• Increase in certain types of infections
• Cushing syndrome

While steroid shots can go a long way to alleviate allergies, it's important to be aware of the many risks. One study published in 2013 showed that regularly using steroid shots to treat allergies increases the risk for diabetes and osteoporosis.

If you live with allergies, ask your doctor about trying sublingual immunotherapy or allergy shots. Both treatments work to desensitize the immune system by introducing the allergen in small amounts, either through shots or orally. You can also take antihistamines, most of which are offered over the counter, or try avoiding your allergy triggers and making your home a safe space from allergens. Another option is to use nasal corticosteroids, which target only the nose and don't have the systemic side effects steroid shots do.