SAAT and Alpha-Gal Treatment Near Me: Clearwater, FL

SAAT stands for Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment. It is an ear-acupuncture protocol developed by Dr. Nader Soliman, using a retained needle typically kept in place for approximately three weeks. Its proposed mechanism and clinical benefit have not been established by large controlled studies. Continue your allergist's care and emergency plan.

SAAT is used for allergen-driven and mast-cell-driven conditions. The most common at our Clearwater clinic are Alpha-Gal syndrome (the tick-borne red-meat allergy) and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). It has also been used for environmental and food allergen sensitivities.

No. SAAT uses a specific point map and a retained needle, and certification requires direct training with the Soliman institute. Ear seeds, NAET, and general auricular acupuncture are different techniques with different protocols and outcomes.

Yes. Dr. Kim Windschauer, AP is a certified SAAT provider — one of a small number in the state of Florida — and also a Certified Neuropuncturist®.

SAAT may require a course of visits, not a single appointment. The retained needle period is not the total treatment course. Discuss the number and spacing of visits, reassessment and total cost before treatment or travel. A cure or safe return to allergens cannot be promised.

Placement takes only a few minutes and most patients describe brief pressure rather than pain. The retained needle is small and covered; you can shower and go about normal activity. We ask you to avoid manipulating the ear and to report any irritation.

SAAT is used for allergen-driven reactivity — food allergens, environmental allergens, and mast-cell-driven symptoms. The protocol targets one allergen family at a time, so your consult identifies which trigger to address first. Responses vary from person to person, and SAAT is used alongside the care your physician directs, not instead of it. Keep your avoidance plan and prescribed emergency medication until your medical team advises otherwise.

Conventional management of Alpha-Gal syndrome is avoidance of mammal meat and mammal-derived products, antihistamines, and carrying prescribed emergency medication. There is no medication that removes the sensitivity. SAAT is used by some Alpha-Gal patients as a complementary protocol aimed at the reactivity itself; Dr. Kim reviews your IgE panel and reaction history and will tell you honestly if she does not think you are a good candidate.

Patients come to the Clearwater clinic from across Tampa Bay — St. Petersburg, Largo, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Tampa — and from elsewhere in Florida and the Southeast, because certified SAAT providers are uncommon. Contact the clinic before arranging travel: multiple in-office visits may be needed, and follow-up arrangements must be confirmed.

SAAT is performed at Acupuncture of West Florida, 3001 Executive Drive, Suite 150, Clearwater, FL 33762, just off Ulmerton Road in the Gateway area of Pinellas County, with free parking at the door. Appointments are Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Call 727-490-6060 to check SAAT availability.

Yes. The clinic is central to Pinellas County, so SAAT patients come from Clearwater, Largo, Dunedin, Safety Harbor, Palm Harbor, Oldsmar, Seminole, Tarpon Springs and St. Petersburg, as well as Tampa and the wider Tampa Bay area. Most are within a 20 to 30 minute drive.