Stay calm
The first and most crucial step if you have mistakenly eaten a food to which you are allergic is to stay calm. Panicking will only exacerbate the situation.
Recognize the symptoms
Allergic reactions can differ greatly amongst individuals, different symptoms may include:
- Skin reactions, such as hives, itching, or flushed skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face, throat, or other body parts
- Nausea or vomiting
- Feeling faint, dizzy, or off-balance
- Accelerated heart rate
Administer an over-the-counter antihistamine
If you have a mild allergy and you accidentally consumed the allergen, you should immediately take an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine, if one is readily available. This can help mitigate the reaction.
Seek immediate medical help
If you are experiencing severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or you feel like you might lose consciousness, it's crucial to seek medical help immediately. Dial your local emergency number or have someone nearby do it for you.
Use an EpiPen if available
If you have a severe allergy and you carry an EpiPen (Epinephrine auto-injector), use it immediately. This is a prescription medication that can rapidly counteract a severe allergic reaction.
Note: Always seek medical attention after using an EpiPen, even if your symptoms appear to be under control.
Plan ahead for the future
After the episode, it's important to visit an allergist, a doctor who specializes in allergies. If you have not been previously diagnosed with an allergy, they will be able to perform tests to determine what your specific allergies are.
Curex - Allergy immunotherapy
The new wave of handling allergies comes in the form of immunotherapy. Curex, a leading allergy immunotherapy company, is pioneering in this field. With carefully designed therapies, Curex is aiding countless people in building their tolerance to certain allergens.
This treatment involves the administration of gradual doses of the allergen to which the patient is allergic. Over time, this can aid in reducing the severity of the allergic reactions or potentially demolishing them altogether.
Every individual is different and thus, immunotherapy may not work for everyone. However, consulting with your allergist about this option can be an optimal way to manage your allergies better in the future.
Remember, the safest measures are preventative measures. If you are aware of your food allergies, make sure to go through the ingredients of what you're consuming to avoid any allergic reactions. Always carry an EpiPen if you have a severe allergy and do not hesitate to use it when necessary.