S1 E8: Understanding Immunity and Allergies with Dr. Sanjay Patel
Meet our guest Dr. Sanjay Patel of Allergy & Asthma Specialists
Dr. Sanjay C. Patel has over 20 years of professional experience treating the most complex pediatric and adult cases in Northwest Indiana. He founded Allergy & Asthma Specialists with the goal of treating the most challenging allergy, asthma, and immunodeficiency patients. He strives to provide university level of care in the comfort of a community-based practice.
Dr. Patel is board-certified in both adult and pediatric allergy, asthma, and immunology. He completed both his undergraduate and medical school training at Loyola University in Chicago, Internal Medicine residency at Northwestern University, and fellowship training in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology at the University of California-Irvine. Dr. Patel is a recognized regional expert in asthma, angioedema, atopic dermatitis, chronic cough, drug reactions, eosinophilic esophagitis, immunodeficiencies, sinusitis, stinging insect allergies, urticaria/hives, along with a multitude of other conditions.
Dr. Patel remains active in participating in clinical and educational activities. He regularly participates in clinical drug trials and acts as a consultant for the food manufacturing industry providing educational lectures on the dangers of food allergies and its implication in the food supply chain. He has also participated as an expert witness in cases involving severe food allergic reactions and mold allergies. In addition, Dr. Patel is on the teaching faculty at Indiana University School of Medicine as an Assistant Professor of Medicine. Dr. Patel continues to publish in peer-review journals and teach medical students alongside providing university level care throughout Northwest Indiana.
In his leisure time, Dr. Patel enjoys competitive basketball and plays in many charity tournaments. He’s a dedicated coach to his children’s baseball and basketball leagues and enjoys outdoor activities with his wife and children.
Episode Summary
In this episode of the DBT Podcast, host Dr. Neel Shah welcomes immunologist and allergist Dr. Sanjay Patel for an engaging and informative discussion about the human immune system, allergies, and how to better understand what keeps our bodies protected. Dr. Sanjay Patel is a board-certified immunologist and allergist dedicated to helping patients better understand and manage conditions related to the immune system. His clinical interests include the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases, asthma, and immune deficiencies. Known for his evidence-based approach and patient-centered care, Dr. Patel combines scientific expertise with practical guidance for healthier living.
The conversation ranges from the basics of immunology to the newest treatments for allergies, as well as common myths about vitamins, stress, and immune health.
Episode Highlights
The importance of understanding both innate and adaptive immunity
How allergies were first recognized and how far treatment has come
Breakthrough medications that are transforming care for allergic patients
What causes immune deficiencies and how they can be treated
The myths and misinformation surrounding immune “boosting
Which vitamins and supplements actually have science behind them
Everyday changes you can make at home to reduce allergens
How stress, sleep, and social connection all impact immunity
The need for trusted medical guidance and evidence-based information
(0:40) A friendly start as Drs. Shah and Patel talk about football—especially the Chicago Bears.
(3:50) A look into the history of allergy and immunology as a field of study.
(5:40) Explaining immunoglobulins, innate immunity, and adaptive immunity—how our bodies recognize and fight threats.
(8:50) How allergies are discovered, what they really are, and how modern medicine treats them.
(13:00) A discussion of new medicines available today to help those with allergies or immune deficiencies.
(14:15) How and why people become immuno-deficient, and what that means for their health.
(19:34) The most common pieces of misinformation Dr. Patel encounters about immunity.
(25:57) Vitamins and supplements—especially vitamin C—and whether they truly boost immunity.
(28:53) Practical advice on what you can do around your home to help with allergies.
(33:02) Everyday habits that might actually harm your immune system.
(34:43) The effects of stress and socialization on immunity and overall health.
(37:52) Closing thoughts from Dr. Patel.
The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for questions about your health. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or production team. Neither the host, the guests, nor Flint Rock LLC assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast.
