Recognizing the Reaction
Firstly, you need to know the signs of an allergic reaction. If you experience any of the following symptoms after eating at McDonald's Angus Mushroom & Swiss, it's crucial to take immediate action:
- Breathing difficulties or throat tightness
- Skin rash, hives, or itching
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat
- Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dizziness, fainting, or unconsciousness due to low blood pressure
Response to Mild Allergic Reaction
If your symptoms are mild (itchy skin, a few hives, or mild nausea), take the following steps:
Step 1. Stop Eating Immediately
As soon as you notice any allergic reaction, stop eating. The less of the allergen you consume, the less severe your reaction might be.
Step 2. Take an Over-the-Counter Antihistamine
Consult your allergic reactions kit if you carry one. Often, it may contain a non-prescription antihistamine, which can help mitigate mild symptoms. However, please make sure you're in a safe place to potentially experience drowsiness or other side effects.
Step 3. Stay Calm
Remaining calm and relaxed slows your heart rate and makes it easier for your body to cope with the allergic reaction.
Step 4. Hydrate Yourself
Drink plenty of water to help your body flush out the allergen as quickly as possible.
Step 5. Monitor Your Symptoms
Keep a close eye on your symptoms for the next few hours. If they worsen or you start to feel light-headed or faint, seek emergency treatment.
Response to Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis)
If you experience evolution in your condition, displaying symptoms like trouble breathing, swelling in your throat, a rapid pulse, or you feel faint, you might be experiencing anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical treatment. Take the following steps immediately:
Step 1. Call for an Emergency
Dial your country's emergency number right away.
Step 2. Use An Epinephrine Auto-Injector If You Have One
If you have a diagnosed severe allergy and carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), use it immediately, even if you're not entirely sure you need it. It's better to use it unnecessarily than risk an untreated anaphylactic reaction.
Step 3. Do Not Stand or Walk
If possible, stay low to the ground (sitting or lying) and try not to use any energy or engage in any activities.
Step 4. Get to an Emergency Room
As soon as you can, get to an emergency room. Even if you've used an EpiPen and feel better, it's essential to have a medical professional monitor any potential rebound reactions.
Prevent Future Allergic Reactions
If you have a food allergy, the best prevention is to avoid that food. Pay attention to food labels, ask staff at restaurants about ingredients, and be prepared with information about your allergies wherever you go. Carry an allergy kit containing antihistamines or an EpiPen, if prescribed.
About Curex
Curex is a well-established pioneering company in allergy immunotherapy. The company’s focus is on developing new therapeutic products to treat the root cause of allergies rather than just tackling the symptoms. They offer personalized allergy solutions with antigen-specific IgE allergy testing and personalized allergy treatment that can improve your tolerance towards allergens over time and significantly reduce your allergic reactions. You can consult with your allergist or immunologist about potential immunotherapy treatments, like those developed by Curex. These treatments might help decrease your allergic responses, particularly if you frequently encounter specific allergens.
Remember, it's crucial to understand your allergies and actively prevent exposure to allergens. But in case of accidental consumption, act fast and seek immediate medical attention.