As one of the foods most likely to cause allergic reactions in young children, egg allergies are highly concerning for many Atlanta parents. Searching for an egg allergy treatment is the natural response to allergy symptoms, particularly if your child experiences anaphylaxis. But it can be challenging to determine the most effective treatment without a consultation with an allergist. If you are curious about allergy shots, desensitization and other approaches, here’s what you need to know.
Are Allergy Shots an Effective Treatment for Egg Allergies?
Allergy shots are used to treat many allergies – but not egg allergies. When a person undergoes immunotherapy desensitization using allergy shots, they receive periodic injections of an allergen. The level of allergen dose is increased over time, helping the immune system build tolerance.
While allergy shots are an effective treatment option, they are used for seasonal allergies like hay fever –as well as for allergies to dust mites, insect stings, pet dander and mold. This treatment approach offers a valuable alternative to antihistamines and other medications that may be required on an ongoing basis.
Oral Immunotherapy for Egg Allergies
Although allergy shots are not used for egg allergies, a similar treatment follows the same principle. If a person is suffering from a lower quality of life due to the symptoms of an egg allergy, they can undergo oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT) at their Atlanta area treatment center.
Like allergy shots, OIT desensitizes the immune system to the presence of egg or other food allergies. However, unlike allergy shot injections, the individual will eat manageable amounts of egg protein over many months. These doses increase until a maintenance level is reached, and exposure to eggs will cause minimal to no allergic reaction.
How Effective Is Oral Immunotherapy for Egg Allergies?
OIT is a proven treatment for egg allergies. It’s an important option for allergists alongside the strategies of avoidance and medication. Crucially, patient safety must be prioritized and OIT treatment should be managed by an immunology specialist.
A meta-analysis published by the Cochrane Library found that across the 10 trials considered, after OIT almost everyone became more tolerant of eggs. In total, 82% of children could consume a partial serving of egg without side effects, compared to 10% of the control group. Approximately 45% of children tolerated a full serving of egg (compared to 10% of the control group).
For many children facing potential health risks from exposure to eggs, oral immunotherapy treatment is a valuable solution. And with the guidance of your allergy doctor it may be possible to reduce the threat of severe allergic reactions.
Contact Us for Egg Allergy Treatments in Atlanta
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center offers egg allergy treatments using allergy shots and other effective solutions. For help with food allergies, visit us in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
