Remain Calm

Panic can exacerbate symptoms. Stay as calm as possible to make rational decisions.

Recognize Symptoms

Common allergic reactions include:

• Hives or rash
• Swelling of the lips, face, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
• Anaphylactic shock (in severe cases)

Administer Immediate Treatment

• Antihistamines: If your symptoms are mild, consider taking an over-the-counter antihistamine such as Benadryl.
• Epinephrine Auto-injector: If you have a prescribed EpiPen, use it immediately if you experience serious symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling, or dizziness.

Seek Medical Attention

Regardless of the severity of your symptoms after taking the initial steps:

• Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room, especially if symptoms escalate or involve respiratory distress.
• Inform medical professionals about your allergy.

Inform Close Contacts

Let people around you know about your allergic reaction. They can help monitor your condition and call for medical assistance if needed.

Stay Hydrated and Rest

After the initial reaction subsides, keep yourself hydrated and take it easy. Allergic reactions can be taxing on your body.

Prevention for Future Occurrences

• Read Labels: Always check ingredient lists carefully when eating out or purchasing food.
• Inform Staff: Ask restaurant staff about ingredients and preparation methods.
• Carry Medication: Always have your antihistamines and EpiPen with you.

Consider Long-term Solutions

Allergy immunotherapy can be an effective long-term treatment that can desensitize your body to particular allergens. Consult with an allergy specialist to see if this option could be beneficial for you.