Food allergies are a growing concern around the world. According to the World Allergy Organization, up to 4% of adults and 8% of children worldwide suffer from food allergies. The allergic reactions to food can range from mild to severe and can even be life-threatening. Currently, there is no cure for food allergies, but oral immunotherapy (OIT) is a promising treatment that is gaining popularity in recent years.
What is Oral Immunotherapy?
Oral immunotherapy is a treatment that involves giving small, gradually increasing doses of the allergen to the patient over a period of time. The goal of OIT is to desensitize the patient’s immune system to the allergen, so they are no longer allergic to it.
How does Oral Immunotherapy work?
When a patient is allergic to a particular food, their immune system overreacts to the proteins in that food. OIT works by gradually exposing the immune system to increasing amounts of these proteins, so it can learn to tolerate them. Over time, the immune system becomes less reactive to the allergen, and the patient becomes less susceptible to an allergic reaction.
Is Oral Immunotherapy Safe?
While oral immunotherapy is considered safe, it does come with some risks. Patients undergoing OIT may experience mild to severe allergic reactions during the treatment, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis can occur. Patients undergoing OIT should only do so under the supervision of a board-certified allergist and in a medical setting equipped to handle any allergic reactions.
Who is a Candidate for Oral Immunotherapy?
Oral immunotherapy is typically recommended for patients who have a confirmed food allergy and are experiencing regular allergic reactions. OIT may not be appropriate for patients with severe allergies or other medical conditions that could make the treatment dangerous.
What are the Benefits of Oral Immunotherapy?
The primary benefit of oral immunotherapy is that it can reduce or eliminate the risk of an allergic reaction to the allergen. Patients undergoing OIT can often reintroduce the food into their diet, which can significantly improve their quality of life. Additionally, OIT can reduce anxiety and improve the patient’s overall well-being.
Oral immunotherapy is a promising treatment for food allergies that offers hope to patients who have been living with the fear of an allergic reaction. While OIT does come with some risks, the benefits can be life-changing for those who are able to tolerate the treatment. If you or someone you know is suffering from a food allergy, speak to a board-certified allergist to see if oral immunotherapy is right for you.
