Peanut Allergy Treatment Shows Promise

At Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center, we are proud to deliver cutting-edge allergy and asthma treatment solutions for our Atlanta patients. Oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT) is among these pioneering therapies for allergy desensitization. For those at risk from severe allergic responses, this treatment offers an alternate path free from the fear and ill health caused by peanut allergies.

Can consuming the allergen bring benefits to those with peanut allergy? Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is the monitored, very gradual introduction of an allergen into a person’s diet. Dr. Chacko explains how it works.

OIT requires commitment and discipline to complete the process. However, for individuals with a peanut allergy, the results can be life-changing. This treatment transitions patients from facing an ongoing threat of severe reactions to being able to consume peanuts with a substantially lower risk. Without a doubt, OIT remains at the forefront of effective allergy treatments.

How Severe Peanut Allergy Symptoms Can Impact Children

Jensen Israel has had a peanut allergy since he was a baby. Any exposure sends him into anaphylaxis, a severe and sometimes life-threatening allergic reaction. But now he’s getting what’s called oral immunotherapy or O.I.T. The gradual introduction of tiny amounts of peanut flour into his diet.

“I was just a little scared but then I knew about that when I’m done with the O.I.T. I could go to like birthday parties, eat their cake, I could go to new restaurants.”

His mother Melissa sought out the treatment after years of trying to stop him from coming into contact with peanuts.

“That big bad boogeyman your allergy can be lurking around any corner it can be on any surface. Everything he touches is potentially life-threatening, so it’s it’s very frightening.”

Our doctors are a growing number of immunologists now using the technique. Currently, there are no approved manufacturers of the oral therapy so we get a local pharmacist to carefully measure out exact doses of inexpensive peanut flour and then give them to the patient while monitoring their response.

“We are slowly introducing it into the body and allowing the body to become tolerant. There’s always a chance of reaction so it’s not it’s not without any risk, but with the proper doctor, with the proper monitoring, it can be done safely.”

This small clinic run by just one doctor has effectively treated 35 patients with peanut allergies in the last year. Many of them now eat peanuts freely without any fear of a reaction. It’s a technique that’s caught on across the U.S. with over 60 specialists now offering this treatment for those with peanut allergies.

What Effect Does Peanut Allergy Exposure Have During Pregnancy?

Until recently women were told not to eat peanuts during pregnancy and avoid exposing their babies to peanut protein to prevent them from developing an allergy. But recent studies have reversed that advice finding that early exposure cuts the chance of developing peanut allergies by up to 80%.

“We’ve learned that food allergies can be impacted by early diet and with peanuts specifically we know now that early introduction actually helps reduce peanut allergies which is contrary to what we thought in the past.”

For Jenson, conquering his peanut allergy is an exciting prospect. And in the coming years as oral immunotherapy is adopted more widely, it looks set to change the lives of millions allowing them to eat again without fear.

Advancements in immunotherapy continue to provide hope for families experiencing the impact of allergies. From the many benefits of aspirin desensitization to breakthroughs in peanut allergy treatment, those with allergies now have real solutions available to them.

OIT Can Be Life Changing for Those With Peanut Allergies

Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is changing the lives of people, especially children, with peanut allergies. To learn more about OIT schedule an appointment with the Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center at one of our clinic locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call us at (678) 668–4688.