Peanut Allergy

Treatment & Testing

Peanut Allergy Treatment in NYC, Manhattan, Upper East Side

At NY Food Allergy, located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of peanut allergies. Our team, led by Dr. Atul Shah, provides personalized care to help you manage and desensitize to your peanut allergy safely and effectively. Estimates indicate that in the United States, between 150 to 200 people die each year due to food allergies, and approximately 50% to 62% of these fatal cases are attributed to peanut allergies. This means that around 75 to 124 deaths annually are due to peanut allergies alone (HowStuffWorks; Health Research Funding). At NYFA, we believe that most of these deaths and reactions are preventable.

Understanding Peanut Allergies

Peanut allergies are among the most common food allergies, affecting millions of people worldwide. This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies peanuts as harmful, triggering a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening and include hives, swelling, gastro-intestinal symptoms, coughing, wheezing, and anaphylaxis (Mayo Clinic).

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Peanut Allergies

Symptoms of a peanut allergy can appear within minutes of exposure and may include:

Skin reactions such as hives, redness, or swelling
Itching or tingling in or around the mouth and throat
Gastro-intestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting
Tightening of the throat, shortness of breath, or wheezing
Anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening reaction (American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology)

Food Allergy Testing for Peanuts

Source: Lincoln Diagnostics

Skin prick tests are a quick and effective way to identify specific allergens. During the test, a small amount of allergen is placed on the skin, which is then gently pricked to allow the allergen to enter. Results are typically visible within 15-20 minutes, making it a fast and reliable option. Needle-free tests are ideal for children and needle-phobic patients. Using advanced technology, these tests provide precise results without the discomfort associated with traditional testing methods.
Blood tests are highly accurate and comprehensive, suitable for all age groups. They measure the presence of specific IgE antibodies in the blood, which can indicate an allergy. This method is particularly useful for patients who cannot undergo skin testing.
IgE specific to peanut components are very helpful in accurate diagnosis of true peanut allergy compared to false positive due to underlying tree pollen allergy. Ara h 2 and Ara h 6 are considered components with potentials for systemic reactions.

At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, we are proud to offer the Basophil Activation Test (BAT), a cutting-edge diagnostic tool for identifying food allergies. This advanced test measures the activation of basophils, a type of white blood cell, in response to allergens. The BAT provides highly accurate results and can detect allergic reactions that might not be identified through traditional testing methods.

We are the only certified lab in the region offering the Basophil Activation Test. Our certification ensures that we maintain the highest standards of accuracy and reliability in our testing procedures. By choosing NY Food Allergy & Wellness for your allergy testing needs, you can be confident that you are receiving the most advanced and reliable diagnostics available.

The Basophil Activation Test is particularly useful for patients who have complex allergy profiles or who have not found answers through conventional tests. It can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing allergy treatments, providing valuable insights for personalized care plans.

Key benefits of the Basophil Activation Test include:

High Accuracy: Detects allergic reactions that may not be visible through skin prick or blood tests.

Comprehensive Analysis: Measures the specific activation of basophils, providing detailed information about allergic responses.

Certified Lab: Conducted in our certified lab, ensuring the highest standards of testing quality and reliability.

If you suspect you have a food allergy and need precise and reliable testing, the Basophil Activation Test at NY Food Allergy & Wellness is an excellent choice. Contact us today to learn more about this innovative test and to schedule your appointment.
Oral Food Challenges are considered the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies. During an OFC, the patient consumes small amounts of the suspected allergen under strict medical supervision to observe any reactions. This method provides definitive results and is conducted with the utmost care and safety.

Managing Peanut Allergies in Daily Life

Managing a peanut allergy involves more than just avoiding peanuts. It's about being prepared and informed. At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, we offer guidance on:

Reading Food Labels: Learn how to identify hidden peanut ingredients in packaged foods.
Restaurant Safety: Tips for dining out safely and communicating your allergy to restaurant staff.
Emergency Preparedness: Understanding when and how to use epinephrine auto-injectors and having an action plan in place (American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology).

Managing Multiple Food Allergies

Achieving food allergy freedom, especially with multiple food allergies, is challenging but possible with the right care. At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, we specialize in comprehensive management and treatment to help patients achieve food allergy desensitization.

Diagnostic Approach

We begin with:

Detailed Patient History: Reviewing the patient’s medical history and symptoms.
Advanced Testing: Utilizing skin prick tests, blood tests, and the Basophil Activation Test to identify specific allergens and assess reaction severity.

Continuous Support

Regular Follow-ups: Monitoring progress and adjusting treatment plans.
Patient Education: Providing resources and training for effective management.
Support Groups: Facilitating patient support groups for shared experiences and strategies.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Our customized plans aim for food allergy desensitization and may include:

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT): Gradually introducing allergens to desensitize the immune system.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): Administering allergens under the tongue to build tolerance.
Medications: Antihistamines can relieve mild symptoms, while epinephrine is used for severe reactions like anaphylaxis. Omalizumab (Xolair) injections can be considered to reduce the risk or reactions.
Dietary Management: Guidance on safe food choices and avoidance strategies.
Emergency Preparedness: Training on using epinephrine auto-injectors and creating action plans for accidental exposures.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best treatment for peanut allergies currently involves a combination of avoidance, emergency preparedness, and desensitization therapies such as Oral Immunotherapy (OIT). OIT gradually introduces small amounts of peanut protein to desensitize the immune system, thereby reducing the severity of allergic reactions (Mayo Clinic). At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, we provide a comprehensive treatment approach under our FATE™ Program, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to ensure the highest level of care and safety.
Currently, peanut avoidance is a general recommendation, but several treatments can help manage the condition:
- Avoidance: The primary treatment involves avoiding peanuts and peanut-containing products.
- Medications: Antihistamines can relieve mild symptoms, while epinephrine is used for severe reactions like anaphylaxis. Omalizumab (Xolair) injections can be considered to reduce the risk or reactions. Read more.
- Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) and Oral Immunotherapy (OIT): These treatment options gradually introduce small amounts of peanut to desensitize the immune system over time (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology). Doing the OIT with FDA approved product is an effective option for peanuts. At NYFA, we offer SLIT and OIT products and options based on patient needs (single vs. multi-foods) and family’s preference for safety and the most efficient way to get to freedom.
Peanut allergy treatments, particularly desensitization therapies like Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT), have shown significant success in increasing tolerance to peanuts and reducing the severity of allergic reactions. Clinical studies have reported that a substantial number of patients can tolerate increased amounts of peanut protein after undergoing these treatments, leading to a marked decrease in the risk of severe reactions (American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology). At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, our FATE™ Program has demonstrated positive outcomes, helping patients manage their peanut allergies effectively and improve their quality of life.
While there is no definitive cure for peanut allergies, treatments like Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) have shown promise in increasing tolerance to peanuts and reducing the severity of allergic reactions (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases). These treatments, available through our FATE™ Program at NY Food Allergy & Wellness, offer hope for patients seeking to manage and potentially overcome their peanut allergies.
Do Peanut Allergies Get Worse with Age?
Peanut allergies can persist throughout life and may become more severe with repeated exposure. However, with proper management and treatment, the risk of severe reactions can be minimized. Studies have shown that desensitization therapies, such as those provided in our FATE™ Program, can help manage peanut allergies effectively, even in adults (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology).

Pioneering Food Allergy
Treatments in Manhattan.

Dr. Atul Shah:

Dr. Atul Shah, MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI, is the founder of NY Food Allergy & Wellness and a renowned allergist with over 20 years of experience. With more than 15,000 success stories across children, teens, and adults, Dr. Shah’s expertise knows no age limits. He holds dual fellowships and has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Global Fellowship Award and America’s Top Physician. Dr. Shah is a leader in allergy care, offering personalized, life-changing treatments for all ages.

Dr. Atul Shah, MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI, is the founder of NY Food Allergy & Wellness & a renowned allergist with over 20 years of experience. With more than 15,000 success stories across children, teens, & adults, Dr. Shah’s expertise knows no age limits. He holds dual fellowships & has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Global Fellowship Award & America’s Top Physician. Dr. Shah is a leader in allergy care, offering personalized, life-changing treatments.

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