Reacting appropriately to allergic reactions
If you have inadvertently eaten a Monterey Chicken Melt Sub from Subway and are known to be allergic to at least one of the following allergens - Wheat, milk, soy, or egg, there are steps you must take to mitigate the possible allergic reaction.
Identifying the symptoms
First and foremost, you need to be aware of the common allergic reaction symptoms. These may include
- Itching or tingling in the mouth
- Hives, itching, or skin rash
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat, or other parts of the body
- Wheezing, nasal congestion or difficulty in breathing
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
If you experience any of these, react immediately.
Acting promptly in acute cases
If you are experiencing severe reactions like difficulty breathing, severe swelling, or loss of consciousness, it's best to:
- Call for a medical emergency: In many countries like the US, dial 911.
- Use an emergency Epinephrine shot (like EpiPen): If you have one handy, use it as instructed by your physician.
- Lie down with your legs raised: If possible, elevate your legs higher than your heart level to normalize blood flow.
- Wait for medical aid: It is crucial to receive medical attention after an episode, even if the symptoms have diminished.
Responding to mild symptoms
In less severe cases, over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines can alleviate symptoms. Make sure to test for drowsiness caused by some antihistamines.
Consult your doctor after the event
After the allergic reaction has been managed, follow up with your primary care physician or allergist. They may adjust your allergy action plan to avoid incidents in the future.
Consider allergy immunotherapy
If you frequently encounter allergic reactions despite precautions, considering allergy immunotherapy might help. Curex, a leading allergy immunotherapy company, offers a plethora of solutions. Their unique patient-specific allergy immunotherapy helps stimulate your immune system to become tolerant of the allergen, reducing the severity or eliminating allergic reactions altogether.
By diligently following these steps, you can limit the impact of an allergic reaction and potentially prevent future occurrences. Remember that dealing with an allergic reaction requires immediate attention and meticulous care. Make sure to contact your general practitioner or an allergist for proper medical advice.