Dr. Menk Otto offers comprehensive allergy evaluation and allergy treatment for inhalant allergies to pollens, dust, animal fur and dander, and mold using sublingual immunotherapy, also known as SLIT or “allergy drops.”
Allergy Evaluation
Allergy evaluation begins with a detailed history of symptoms and exposures, and specific recommendations to reduce exposures. Allergy testing can help to determine what and how strong sensitivities are to each allergen.
Allergy testing is done by skin prick, or by blood test. Based on the results of the allergy test, treatment is customized for each person and is specific to their patterns of allergic reaction.
Allergies caused by reactions to tree, grass and weed pollens, mold, animals, and dust mites are some of the allergies that may be treated using sublingual immunotherapy. Conditions such as eczema and asthma are some of the conditions that may improve with immunotherapy. For serious allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis and angioedema, Dr. Menk Otto will co-manage your medical care in conjunction with an allergist or immunologist.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), sometimes referred to as “allergy drops,” is a treatment in which liquid drops containing allergens to which a person is sensitive are placed under the tongue daily. This treatment uses the same materials as those used in allergy shots, which also effectively treat allergies. The difference is that drops can be used at home and do not require travel to a doctor’s office for administration and drops are less invasive and do not involve needles.
Successful treatment of allergy with sublingual immunotherapy results in a “re-training” of the immune system so that allergic symptoms decrease. Most people experience symptom relief within the first several weeks of treatment. For full effect, treatment lasts 1-2 years.
Care Coordination
Dr. Laurie will treat you for allergy while you receive primary care with your current health care provider, including other naturopathic physicians. Dr. Laurie regularly communicates with other referring health care providers for optimal health care management.
Further Reading
Sublingual immunotherapy: World Allergy Organization position paper 2013 update
American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology
Current status of sublingual immunotherapy in the United States
Laurie Menk Otto, ND, MPH 