Your Guide to Living Confidently
with Food Allergies
Food allergies affect more than what you eat. They shape daily routines, family decisions, school plans, travel, and peace of mind.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, exploring treatment options, or already on your immunotherapy journey, these resources are here to help you navigate every step with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Treatment
What is OIT and how does it work?
Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) is a treatment that gradually exposes your immune system to tiny amounts of an allergen, building tolerance over time. Most patients reach a protective “maintenance dose” within 6-12 months, significantly reducing the risk of severe reactions from accidental exposure.
What’s the difference between OIT and SLIT?
OIT uses food protein (like peanut flour) taken by mouth in increasing doses. SLIT uses allergen drops placed under the tongue. OIT typically achieves higher levels of tolerance faster; SLIT is gentler and can be done mostly at home. We’ll help you determine which is right for your situation.
Is OIT safe?
Yes, when conducted under proper medical supervision. Reactions can occur — that’s why we start with tiny doses and increase gradually in our office. We’re prepared to manage any reactions that occur, and we teach you how to handle dosing safely at home.
Can you treat allergies other than peanut?
Absolutely. We treat peanut, tree nuts, milk, egg, sesame, soy, wheat, and other food allergens. We can even treat multiple allergies simultaneously in some cases.
Do you treat adults?
Yes. While many programs focus on children, we believe adults deserve treatment options too. Our adult patients often see excellent results.
How long does treatment take?
Most patients reach their maintenance dose within 6-12 months. After that, you continue daily maintenance dosing at home to retain protection. The time investment is significant, but the freedom it provides lasts a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Appointments
What happens at the first visit?
We’ll review your allergy history, discuss testing results (or conduct testing if needed), and talk through your treatment options. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of whether OIT or SLIT is right for you and what the process looks like.
How do I prepare for my first appointment?
Bring any prior allergy testing results, a list of current medications, and your questions. If your child is the patient, bring them too — we want to meet the whole family.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept most major insurance plans and will help verify your coverage before treatment begins. Some aspects of immunotherapy may require out-of-pocket costs; we’ll be transparent about what to expect.
How often will I need to come in?
During the build-up phase, you’ll visit every 1-2 weeks for dose increases (typically 1-2 hours per visit). Once you reach maintenance, visits become less frequent — usually every few months for check-ins.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Living with Food Allergies
How do I keep my child safe at school?
We’ll help you develop a Food Allergy Action Plan and work with your school to implement a 504 plan if needed. Key steps: meet with the school nurse, provide emergency medications, train staff on recognizing reactions, and ensure your child knows how to self-advocate.
What should I do when dining out?
Always inform the server about allergies, ask about ingredients and preparation methods, and don’t hesitate to speak with a manager or chef. When possible, call ahead. And remember — it’s not “being difficult,” it’s being safe.
Can my child outgrow their food allergy?
Some children outgrow milk, egg, soy, and wheat allergies. Peanut and tree nut allergies are less commonly outgrown. The good news: immunotherapy can help achieve tolerance even when natural outgrowth doesn’t occur.
Free Downloadable Guides
Here are some quick checklists and guides that will help you navigate
hassle-free through allergies.
Understanding OIT
Preparing for Your Child's First Food Challenge
Managing Food Allergies at School:
A Checklist
Emergency Action Plan Template
Questions to Ask
for Dining Out Safely
Have a Question We Didn't Answer?
We’re here to help. Reach out to our team and we’ll get you the information you need.