For years, Megan Williams has avoided peanuts for fear of an allergic reaction. One bite into any food containing peanuts leads to itchy hives sprawling across her body.
“I’ve been allergic to peanuts since I was a kid,” Williams said. “Now, even in my late 20’s I still have to be careful about what I eat.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, eight percent of kids have some sort of food allergies, with peanuts topping the list of allergens. Hives, labored breathing, and digestive problems can all be caused by peanuts.
There is no cure, but doctors are working on a patch that could help people like Williams. The patch is similar to what smokers use to kick the habit, and the concept is the same. Just as smokers absorb a small amount of nicotine into their body through the patch, those allergic to peanuts would absorb a small amount of peanut protein into their body. The idea is to build up a tolerance against peanuts.
“I would certainly consider wearing a patch to get over this allergy,” Williams said. This working mother carries an EpiPen with her at all time in case of a severe allergic reaction. The EpiPen is a portable dose of epinephrine, which can fight the adverse effects of an allergic reaction.
Doctors at National Jewish Health in Denver are testing the quarter sized ‘peanut patch’ now and hope to start clinical trials this fall.
If the patch proves successful it could mean fewer trips to the doctor for those suffering with peanut allergies. Currently the only solution is for patients to undergo a lengthy round of immunotherapy drugs. If the patch works, it means patients could handle their treatments at home, with limited follow-up visits. Patients would wear the patch on their skin for 24-48 hours.
For Williams, the patch could mean a life without worry. “If I didn’t have this allergy it would seriously change my life,” she said. “I’ll be curious to see if goes mainstream.”
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