Mealtimes for children with allergies can be a source of anxiety for parents. However, with the support of cutting-edge food allergy treatments, Atlanta families may find some relief from this daily challenge. Among the potential treatment options, oral immunotherapy (OIT) is a reliable method for building allergen tolerance. If your child is experiencing allergy symptoms, investigating the benefits of OIT can help you make a smart decision for their health and well-being.
What Are the Benefits of Oral Immunotherapy for Children?
OIT is an ongoing process that requires a commitment from children and their families. While the treatment won’t always be the appropriate option, it is often the best way to deal with an allergy to peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, sesame or wheat.
Increase Tolerance to Food Allergens
During OIT, children are given carefully measured doses of the food allergen by their allergist. These doses are gradually increased until they reach the maintenance dose. This maintenance dose varies between patients and is the amount of allergen the child can tolerate regularly without a reaction. The goal of this process is to steadily increase the child’s exposure to the allergen, allowing the immune system to become desensitized.
Prevent Severe or Life-Threatening Allergic Reactions
Allergens like peanuts or tree nuts can cause anaphylaxis that requires an immediate epinephrine injection and medical attention. A food allergy specialist can help you prevent these severe allergic reactions, offering protection for those most at risk. In some cases, OIT will build tolerance to the allergen. However, even those who cannot tolerate high levels of the allergen can benefit from reduced sensitivity.
Keep Children Safe From Cross-Contamination
Cross-contamination happens when a food allergen is inadvertently transferred to a food or surface. If your child is then exposed to even tiny amounts of an allergen, it can trigger a reaction. Unfortunately, cross-contamination is common during food preparation or storage, with utensils, pans and counters particularly prone to transfer. To reduce the risk of cross-contamination, OIT can increase your child’s tolerance from accidental exposure.
Increase Confidence With Food Choices
Allergic reactions often lead to anxiety and a lack of confidence in food choices. Children can develop stress around foods, limiting their nutritional intake due to an overly cautious approach. After successfully completing oral immunotherapy treatment, children and parents usually build confidence and feel comfortable introducing new foods without a fear of allergen exposure. With a reduced chance of allergic reactions, children can also participate in social events and eat confidently at school.
Speak to an Atlanta Allergist About Oral Immunotherapy
If your child has the common symptoms of a food allergy, testing and treatment is crucial. Visit one of our locations to discuss oral immunotherapy and other treatment options. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment at a food allergy treatment center.
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