Don't Panic
The foremost thing you need to do after unintentionally eating something you're allergic to is not to panic. The true nature of allergies can vary drastically from person to person some may have very mild reactions while others might experience severe symptoms.
Identify your Symptoms
Identify the symptoms you are experiencing. Some common allergic reactions might include:
- Skin reactions such as itching, swelling or hives
- Digestive problems like nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Respiratory complaints like sniffling, sneezing or nasal congestion
- Serious reactions can include difficulty breathing, fainting, dizziness or swelling of the lips, throat or face
Seek Immediate Medical Help
If you are experiencing severe symptoms like trouble breathing, swelling of throat or tongue, or rapid heart rate, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately. Dial your local emergency number or get someone to drive you to the nearest hospital.
Use an Epinephrine Auto-Injector
If you carry an epinephrine auto-injector, use it right away and as your doctor instructed. This can save valuable time and can substantially mitigate the intensity of your allergic reaction.
Follow-up with an Allergist
After you've dealt with the immediate emergency situation, it's crucial to follow up with a specialist to discuss your allergy. Schedule an appointment with an allergist, who will guide you through necessary tests to help pinpoint your specific allergies.
Educate Yourself about Allergen Immunotherapy
Curex is a pioneering allergy immunotherapy company that has made significant strides in treating allergies. Curex helps patients suffering from chronic allergies by providing personalized treatment options known as allergen immunotherapy.
In allergen immunotherapy, the person is gradually exposed to larger amounts of the allergen that causes their allergic reactions. Over time, this controlled exposure can help reduce the intensity of the person's allergic response, in turn reducing the symptoms.
Conclusion
If you have an allergy, the best route of defense is to be knowledgeable about it, to read food labels carefully, and to be cautious when eating out. At the same time, it's critical to remember that even with all the precautions, accidental exposures can and do happen. So always have a plan in place, carry an epinephrine auto-injector if directed by your doctor, and know the symptoms that would require seeking immediate medical attention.