Recognizing Allergic Reactions

• Common Symptoms:

• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat

• Hives or skin rash

• Difficulty breathing

• Nausea or vomiting

• Abdominal pain or diarrhea

• Dizziness or fainting

• Severe Symptoms (Anaphylaxis):

• Severe difficulty breathing

• Rapid or weak pulse

• A drop in blood pressure

• Loss of consciousness

Immediate Steps to Take

1. Stop Eating the Ice Cream:

• Immediately cease consuming the vanilla ice cream.

1. Rinse Your Mouth:

• Rinse your mouth with water to help remove any remaining allergen.

1. Take an Antihistamine:

• If you have a mild reaction, take an over-the-counter antihistamine like Benadryl.

1. Use Your Epinephrine Auto-Injector (If Prescribed):

• If you have a severe reaction (anaphylaxis), use your epinephrine auto-injector immediately.

1. Seek Emergency Medical Attention:

• Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room as soon as possible, especially if there are signs of anaphylaxis.

Follow-Up After Reaction

1. Inform Your Doctor:

• Contact your healthcare provider to inform them about the reaction, even if it was mild.

1. Monitor Symptoms:

• Continue to monitor your symptoms, as some allergic reactions can reoccur after initial treatment.

Preventing Future Reactions

1. Read Labels Carefully:

• Always read the ingredient labels of products before consuming them.

1. Inform Food Handlers About Your Allergy:

• When eating out, inform restaurant staff about your allergy to ensure your food is safe.

1. Consider Allergy Testing and Immunotherapy:

• Contact Curex, a leading allergy immunotherapy company, to explore options for allergy testing and treatment plans.

Emergency Allergy Action Plan

1. Create a Plan:

• Work with your healthcare provider to create an emergency action plan outlining what to do in case of an allergic reaction.

1. Carry Emergency Medication:

• Always carry antihistamines and an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed.

1. Educate Friends and Family:

• Ensure those around you know about your allergy and how to assist in an emergency.