Alpha-Gal Syndrome (SAAT) Treatment in Clearwater, FL
Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) — the red-meat and mammalian-product allergy triggered by a Lone Star tick bite — is exploding across the Southeast. SAAT (Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment) is a single, retained auricular needle protocol with documented long-term remission rates, and Dr. Kim is one of the few SAAT-certified providers in Florida.
What we treat
Symptoms of Alpha-Gal Syndrome (SAAT)
- Hives, rash, or itching 2–8 hours after red meat or dairy
- GI distress (cramping, diarrhea) after mammalian products
- Reactions to gelatin, dairy, or pork byproducts in medications
- Severe anaphylaxis episodes requiring epinephrine
- Inability to find safe foods to eat
The gap
Why Conventional Treatments Often Fall Short
Conventional management is strict avoidance plus emergency epinephrine. There is no FDA-approved disease-modifying treatment. SAAT — pioneered by Dr. Nader Soliman and now in active research at major academic centers — is the leading non-pharmacologic intervention with reported long-term remission in a majority of treated patients.
Our approach
How Acupuncture of West Florida Treats Alpha-Gal Syndrome (SAAT)
- Full SAAT intake including IgE results and reaction history
- Single retained auricular needle, in office, by a SAAT-certified provider
- Carefully sequenced food reintroduction protocol
- 6-month follow-up to confirm sustained tolerance
The research
Evidence & Guidelines
SAAT is documented in the peer-reviewed literature (Soliman, Medical Acupuncture Journal) with reported long-term remission in a majority of treated AGS patients. We follow Dr. Soliman's published protocol exactly.
Your first visit
What to Expect on Your First Visit
- 1Detailed AGS history and IgE review
- 2SAAT consultation and treatment planning
- 3Single SAAT needle placement (10–15 minute procedure)
- 4Written reintroduction schedule and 6-month follow-up plan
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you treat patients from outside Clearwater?+
Yes. We see SAAT patients from across Florida — Orlando, Jacksonville, Miami, Tallahassee — and accept out-of-state travel patients. The protocol is a single in-office visit with phone follow-ups.
Does SAAT work for MCAS or other allergies?+
Dr. Kim also treats MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome) using SAAT methodology and adjacent auricular protocols. We'll discuss whether your case is a good fit during your consultation.
Does acupuncture hurt?+
Most patients describe a mild dull ache or warmth at the point — nothing like a hypodermic needle. Acupuncture needles are hair-thin (about 40x thinner than a vaccine needle), and most people relax deeply during the session.
How many sessions will I need?+
Most patients feel measurable change within 3–6 sessions. Chronic or complex conditions typically follow a 6–12 session plan, after which we transition to maintenance care. Dr. Kim builds a clear, written plan during your free consultation.
Do you accept insurance?+
We don't take insurance — Acupuncture of West Florida is a self-pay practice. We do provide a superbill after your visit that some insurance providers will accept for out-of-network reimbursement, and HSA/FSA cards are accepted. We also offer a Give $25 / Get $25 referral credit to keep care affordable.
Ready to feel better — naturally?
Book a free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Kim Windschauer, AP. We'll listen to what's going on and tell you honestly whether acupuncture can help.
Ready to feel better — naturally?
Book a free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Kim Windschauer, AP. We'll listen to what's going on and tell you honestly whether acupuncture can help.