Stay Calm
If you realize you've consumed something you're allergic to, the first thing to do is remain as calm as possible. Panicking can worsen symptoms or make it harder to address the situation effectively.
Identify Symptoms
Common symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
- Hives or skin rash
- Itching
- Swelling of lips, face, and tongue
- Difficulty breathing
- Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)
Stop Eating
Do not consume any more of the product. Save the packaging for reference if you need to inform medical professionals or identify the allergen.
Take Antihistamines
If your symptoms are mild, over-the-counter antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can help relieve symptoms. Always follow dosage instructions on the packaging.
Seek Medical Attention
For moderate to severe symptoms, especially if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling, or anaphylaxis, seek medical attention immediately. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Use an EpiPen
If you have been prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), use it as directed. Epinephrine can temporarily relieve severe symptoms while you seek further medical treatment.
Inform Your Allergist
Follow up with your allergist to discuss the incident and any necessary changes to your allergy management plan. This may include updated prescriptions, new action plans, or additional testing.
Consider Allergy Immunotherapy
Curex is a leading allergy immunotherapy company that offers treatments designed to reduce the body's sensitivity to allergens over time. Consult with your healthcare provider to see if this might be an option for you.
Prevent Future Incidents
- Always read ingredient lists carefully.
- When dining out, inform the restaurant staff of your allergies.
- Keep emergency medications, like antihistamines and EpiPens, readily available.
- Wear a medical alert bracelet that identifies your allergy.
Conclusion
Managing a food allergy requires vigilance and preparation. By following these steps, you can better handle accidental exposures and reduce the likelihood of severe reactions in the future.