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Revolutionizing Allergy Treatment with SLIT: A More Precise and Long Term Treatment Approach
As an integrative internal medicine physician, I, Dr. Olga Aleksandrova M.D., have witnessed the profound impact of allergies on my patients' lives. While traditional treatments merely alleviate symptoms temporarily, I'm thrilled to offer Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) - a groundbreaking approach widely adopted in Europe and now available in Orlando, Florida too. SLIT addresses allergies at their root, providing long-term relief. By harnessing this innovative technology, we can empower patients to break free from the cycle of allergy symptoms and medications. My practice is proud to bring this European-tested, clinically-proven treatment to Orlando, offering patients a more effective and sustainable solution for managing allergies.
Introduction to Allergies
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to normally harmless substances known as allergens. This reaction can range from mild to severe.
Symptoms
Allergy symptoms can manifest in various ways, affecting different systems of the body. Respiratory issues may include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, asthma, and shortness of breath. Skin allergies can cause hives, eczema, itching, and swelling. Digestive problems may arise, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It's essential to recognize these signs and consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment to manage allergies effectively
Causes
The rise in allergies can be attributed to several factors. The evolution of our diets has played a big role. Traditional diets, rich in diverse microbes from the soil, have been replaced by processed foods. This shift might not only alter our gut microbiome, crucial for immune system development, but also reduce our natural desensitization to certain foods.
Additionally, antibiotic overuse, particularly in early childhood, disrupts the gut flora, leading to a less diverse gut microbiome and increased allergy risk. Furthermore, research suggests a correlation between lower vitamin D levels, potentially caused by modern lifestyles with more time spent indoors and sunscreen use, and higher allergy rates, ultimately highlighting the complex interplay between lifestyle, environment, and immune system development.
Traditional Treatments
While traditional and holistic methods offer temporary symptom relief, only Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) targets the underlying cause of allergies for long-term relief. Traditional treatments like antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroids, and leukotriene modifiers merely mask symptoms, and holistic approaches such as diet modification and supplements like vitamin C, quercetin, and probiotics provide modest improvements. In contrast, SLIT therapy addresses the root cause of allergies with long-lasting relief.
Testing
The two most common modes of testing for allergies are:
1. Skin Tests:
- Prick test (puncture test): Skin prick testing is the most common method of allergy testing. During this test, the skin is slightly pricked while a small drop of allergen is exposed to the skin for 15 minutes. Dr. Olga Aleksandrova will then monitor the skin for signs of an allergic reaction, including redness and swelling. This test is usually done to identify allergies to pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites, and foods. We are at our office test for 72 different allergens which also include grasses and trees that are specific to Florida. Skin prick tests are generally safe for adults and children. However, this test is not recommended for people with skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis. Most importantly patients can not be on anti allergy medications for at least 10 -14 days. That is why the best time to test for allergies during off season and when patients do not have allergy symptoms.
2. Blood tests, measure IgE antibody levels in the blood to diagnose allergies. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI), blood tests have a false positive rate of 50-60%, leading to potential over-diagnosis and over-treatment of symptoms. Blood tests only identify potential allergens, not the severity or likelihood of a reaction, and do not provide a clear treatment plan, often resulting in continued use of antihistamines or steroids. Consequently, due to false positive results patients may unnecessarily avoid safe substances, leading to confusion and uncertainty, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment approaches.
Going beyond symptoms to treat the core allergy issues.
Benefits and Mechanisms of Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) for Allergies
Introduction
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) is a non-invasive allergy treatment alternative to traditional shots. It works by placing a small amount of allergen extract under the tongue, where it's absorbed into the bloodstream through the oral mucosa, bypassing digestive degradation. Through regular exposure, SLIT trains the immune system to tolerate the allergen, involving desensitization and regulatory T-cell activation, which reduces IgE production and increases protective IgG4 antibodies. Unlike weekly injection-based subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), SLIT is typically taken daily, providing consistent allergen exposure for effective immune system training.
Benefits of SLIT:
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) offers numerous benefits, including convenience through self-administration at home, reducing clinic visits, and a safer profile with a lower risk of anaphylaxis. It effectively reduces allergy symptoms by at least 60% and provides long-term benefits, leading to lasting immune tolerance after several years. SLIT also offers comfort through its needle-free approach, making treatment more psychologically comfortable, and flexibility with adjustable dosage for varying allergen exposure. However, consistency is crucial, with daily treatment without breaks necessary. Treatment commitment for several years is also required to achieve lasting benefits.
Conclusion
cheap skin allergy testing and treatment near me
In conclusion, Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) offers a revolutionary approach to allergy treatment, addressing the root cause for long-term relief, unlike traditional treatments that only provide up to 24-hour symptom relief. SLIT provides a precise and sustainable solution in the comfort of your own home. If you're tired of just managing symptoms, consider SLIT for taking control of your allergies. Schedule a consultation at MAHO HEALTH with Dr. Olga Aleksandrova M.D to discuss its benefits. Remember, allergies require a multifaceted approach, and exploring various treatment options, from traditional pharmaceuticals to holistic and cultural treatments, can lead to better control and enhanced quality of life.
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