peanut allergy desensitization?

First off--I'm going to give you my thoughts on this reminding you that I am not an allergist or medical professional--and to keep in mind that what you read here from any poster should not be taken lightly.

First thing is first--if you are not happy with your current allergist get a new one asap. Trust your motherly/gut instinct and find someone else. I know you said you have another apt way down the road. See if you can get on a wait list or find another allergist in the meantime.

Next--I do not and would not suggest trying to desensitize your child to peanut in any way shape or form. Did your allergist tell you that "you" can not eat peanut while breastfeeding? If so--I would stick with that advice. If not, I would ask.

Two reasons for this:

1. Desensitization is done in small measured amounts building up over time. With breast milk there is no telling if any peanut protein is reaching your child--and if there is--how much.

2. The Duke study is just that--a study. And it is in it's early stages. While the results look promising--it has been said that this treatment may not be right for all allergy sufferers AND those that it works for may need to eat peanut "daily" to keep their resistance.

The likelihood of an allergy with vomiting, and both tests being positive is certainly higher.

Has your child had any other allergic symptoms other than the vomiting after ingestion? Hives, watery eyes, scratchy mouth, etc.? Vomiting is a sign--but vomiting alone is not necessarily a 100% indicator.

If you think that your child does not have a peanut allergy and is testing positive. (And that is possible.) I would ask for a hospital setting food challenge.

If you think your child does in fact have a peanut allergy--then I would avoid peanuts in all ways, shapes and forms.

Regarding anaphylaxis--it can happen within minutes or take up to hours. It can potentially happen while your child is sleeping.

Also--keep in mind that one allergic reaction does not predict the next. Today might be mild, tomorrow severe, and then back to mild again.

Allergic reactions are an immune system response. If the immune system is compromised in any way (even a recent prior reaction) the reaction can be more severe.

I know peanut allergy is a tough thing to live with, but it does get easier in time. I highly suggest you find another allergist to discuss your concerns with.

I completely agree with what Ruth said. If you do not like your allergist find another one but don't try to desenitize your child. It is way to risky and in my opion (and I am sure you probably agree) the possible cost (your child) is not worth it. Please get a second opinion.

Dr. Tenpenny is supposedly having some success with desensitizing serious food allergies. Search on "Dr. Tenpenny" and you will find her.

This is only MY personal belief. If the allergy is caused by vaccinations or injections, the chance of much success with desensitization is near zero at this time. If the allergy is caused by leaky gut, you have a better chance.

A major caution - I read of a man who underwent the desensitization and it only got rid of his early warning symptoms. So he did not realize he was being exposed to it until it was too late to avoid a full blown anaphylaxis episode.