Food Allergy Awareness Week Tip #1:
Know the SIGNS of Anaphylaxis.
Signs of a serious food allergy (anaphylaxis) are 2 or more of the following reactions:
* Hives, itching and/or skin redness
*Swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat
*Breathing difficulty, wheezing or coughing
*Stomach cramps or vomiting, diarrhea
*Feeling faint/drop in blood pressure (Even if this 1 symptom is the ONLY symptom, it is still anaphylaxis)
KNOW THE SIGNS AND ACT FAST!
Food Allergy Awareness Week Tip #2:
Food Allergy/Anaphylaxis are different from Food Intolerance.
Let's break it down ...
*A FOOD ALLERGY occurs when the immune system reacts to a food protein as if it is a harmful
invader, causing symptoms within seconds to hours after eating or simply coming into contact with the food.
These symptoms can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin, and/or cardiovascular system. (Please see Tip #1 for more info)
*ANAPHYLAXIS is a life-threatening allergic reaction caused by the sudden release of chemical substances, including histamine, from cells in the blood and tissues. The release is triggered by the reaction between the allergic antibody (IgE) and the allergen causing the reaction. Reactions may be fatal within minutes so IMMEDIATE emergency treatment is needed - Inject Epinephrine and call 911.
*A FOOD INTOLERANCE is a metabolic disorder that does NOT involve the immune system and is unlikely to cause an anaphylactic reaction.
Food Allergy Awareness Week Tip #3:
Why is an Epi-Pen important?
An "Epi-Pen" is epinephrine by injection, the treatment of choice for life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
because it quickly begins working to reverse symptoms of anaphylaxis. It constricts blood vessels to increase blood pressure, relaxes smooth muscles in the lungs to reduce wheezing to improve breathing, stimulates the heart
(increases heart rate), and works to reduce hives and swelling that may occur around the face and lips.
~ IT IS NOT A CURE
~ IT SHOULD BE THE FIRST METHOD OF EMERGENCY TREATMENT
~ DO NOT WAIT TO ASSESS SEVERITY OF REACTION
*Inject into outer thigh (no need to remove clothing), hold for 10 seconds, Call 911, massage injection site.
*Always go to hospital after injection of epinephrine.
*It is important to understand that the medication is usually only effective for 10-15 minutes. If the reaction continues to worsen or reoccurs after the initial 10-15 minutes, then a second dose may be needed.
Quick Facts:
*Always carry TWO with you, everywhere.
*Not waterproof and not resistant to hot/cold temperatures so always keep at room temp (25 C, 77 F)
*Epi-Pens do expire, usually within 6 months, and effectiveness of medication will decrease after expiration.
*Auto-Injectors are NOT reusable.
**Epi-Pen Jr is dosed for children weighing 33-66 lbs, Epi-Pen Auto-Injector is appropriate for people weighing 66 lbs or more. For more information: www.epipen.com
**Auvi-Q epinephrine auto-injector is the first and only talking device that instructs you through
the injection process. For more information: http://www.auvi-q.com/
Food Allergy Awareness Week Tip #4:
Avoid cross contact.
Strict avoidance of food allergens is the best way to prevent a reaction. This includes avoidance of potential for cross contact or contamination. You must stay vigilant to ensure a safe environment, food preparation, and always read labels. “Processed in a facility with … ” and “May Contain” statements are just as dangerous as a “Does
Contain” label.
In the kitchen, care must be taken to avoid potential contact from splatters, shared utensils and cookware, equipment, surfaces, etc. Take extreme care while dining away from home and always ask restaurant
management or party host about the food allergen policies regarding potential for cross contact.
*Even a trace of food protein that is invisible to us can cause an allergic reaction. Take care to clean everything with hot, soapy water before using to prepare allergen-free food. Simply wiping away crumbs or spills is not enough.
*Hand sanitizer and dishwashing liquid alone DO NOT remove certain food proteins!
FARE’s website states, “Studies have shown that conventional cleaning methods are effective in removing the protein of a food allergen such as peanut. Bar and liquid soap is effective for removing the protein from your hands, while alcohol-based sanitizer is not, according to a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. That study also showed soaps and commercial cleaning agents effectively removed peanut
protein from table tops, while dishwashing liquid alone did not.”
Food Allergy Awareness Week Tip #5:
Advocate to create and maintain a supportive environment.
It is so important to advocate for yourself and/or your child with food allergies. This helps to create a supportive and safe environment as you empower others to understand the severity of food allergies.
*Advocacy BEGINS with family and friends. You are setting the example that will inspire others to follow your lead.
*Be proactive with healthcare and remain vigilant in health management. Do not be afraid to seek a second
opinion.
*Always carry emergency medication: TWO Epi-Pens, antihistamine, and/or asthma inhaler, etc
*If you are a parent of a school-aged child, get a 504 plan to ensure your child's right to a safe learning environment AND join the PTA to become more involved in policy implementation.
*Join or create a support group. FARE has a support group finder listed on their website at ttp://www.foodallergy.org/support-groups
*Reach out to the community to spread awareness, educate, and advocate. Become familiar with available resources. Participate in a FARE Walk for Food Allergy in your area.
*Contact your local/state/federal representatives to voice your concern for needed legislation regarding food allergies and anaphylaxis.
*Research, Research, Research to stay informed.
Know the SIGNS of Anaphylaxis.
Signs of a serious food allergy (anaphylaxis) are 2 or more of the following reactions:
* Hives, itching and/or skin redness
*Swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat
*Breathing difficulty, wheezing or coughing
*Stomach cramps or vomiting, diarrhea
*Feeling faint/drop in blood pressure (Even if this 1 symptom is the ONLY symptom, it is still anaphylaxis)
KNOW THE SIGNS AND ACT FAST!
Food Allergy Awareness Week Tip #2:
Food Allergy/Anaphylaxis are different from Food Intolerance.
Let's break it down ...
*A FOOD ALLERGY occurs when the immune system reacts to a food protein as if it is a harmful
invader, causing symptoms within seconds to hours after eating or simply coming into contact with the food.
These symptoms can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin, and/or cardiovascular system. (Please see Tip #1 for more info)
*ANAPHYLAXIS is a life-threatening allergic reaction caused by the sudden release of chemical substances, including histamine, from cells in the blood and tissues. The release is triggered by the reaction between the allergic antibody (IgE) and the allergen causing the reaction. Reactions may be fatal within minutes so IMMEDIATE emergency treatment is needed - Inject Epinephrine and call 911.
*A FOOD INTOLERANCE is a metabolic disorder that does NOT involve the immune system and is unlikely to cause an anaphylactic reaction.
Food Allergy Awareness Week Tip #3:
Why is an Epi-Pen important?
An "Epi-Pen" is epinephrine by injection, the treatment of choice for life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
because it quickly begins working to reverse symptoms of anaphylaxis. It constricts blood vessels to increase blood pressure, relaxes smooth muscles in the lungs to reduce wheezing to improve breathing, stimulates the heart
(increases heart rate), and works to reduce hives and swelling that may occur around the face and lips.
~ IT IS NOT A CURE
~ IT SHOULD BE THE FIRST METHOD OF EMERGENCY TREATMENT
~ DO NOT WAIT TO ASSESS SEVERITY OF REACTION
*Inject into outer thigh (no need to remove clothing), hold for 10 seconds, Call 911, massage injection site.
*Always go to hospital after injection of epinephrine.
*It is important to understand that the medication is usually only effective for 10-15 minutes. If the reaction continues to worsen or reoccurs after the initial 10-15 minutes, then a second dose may be needed.
Quick Facts:
*Always carry TWO with you, everywhere.
*Not waterproof and not resistant to hot/cold temperatures so always keep at room temp (25 C, 77 F)
*Epi-Pens do expire, usually within 6 months, and effectiveness of medication will decrease after expiration.
*Auto-Injectors are NOT reusable.
**Epi-Pen Jr is dosed for children weighing 33-66 lbs, Epi-Pen Auto-Injector is appropriate for people weighing 66 lbs or more. For more information: www.epipen.com
**Auvi-Q epinephrine auto-injector is the first and only talking device that instructs you through
the injection process. For more information: http://www.auvi-q.com/
Food Allergy Awareness Week Tip #4:
Avoid cross contact.
Strict avoidance of food allergens is the best way to prevent a reaction. This includes avoidance of potential for cross contact or contamination. You must stay vigilant to ensure a safe environment, food preparation, and always read labels. “Processed in a facility with … ” and “May Contain” statements are just as dangerous as a “Does
Contain” label.
In the kitchen, care must be taken to avoid potential contact from splatters, shared utensils and cookware, equipment, surfaces, etc. Take extreme care while dining away from home and always ask restaurant
management or party host about the food allergen policies regarding potential for cross contact.
*Even a trace of food protein that is invisible to us can cause an allergic reaction. Take care to clean everything with hot, soapy water before using to prepare allergen-free food. Simply wiping away crumbs or spills is not enough.
*Hand sanitizer and dishwashing liquid alone DO NOT remove certain food proteins!
FARE’s website states, “Studies have shown that conventional cleaning methods are effective in removing the protein of a food allergen such as peanut. Bar and liquid soap is effective for removing the protein from your hands, while alcohol-based sanitizer is not, according to a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. That study also showed soaps and commercial cleaning agents effectively removed peanut
protein from table tops, while dishwashing liquid alone did not.”
Food Allergy Awareness Week Tip #5:
Advocate to create and maintain a supportive environment.
It is so important to advocate for yourself and/or your child with food allergies. This helps to create a supportive and safe environment as you empower others to understand the severity of food allergies.
*Advocacy BEGINS with family and friends. You are setting the example that will inspire others to follow your lead.
*Be proactive with healthcare and remain vigilant in health management. Do not be afraid to seek a second
opinion.
*Always carry emergency medication: TWO Epi-Pens, antihistamine, and/or asthma inhaler, etc
*If you are a parent of a school-aged child, get a 504 plan to ensure your child's right to a safe learning environment AND join the PTA to become more involved in policy implementation.
*Join or create a support group. FARE has a support group finder listed on their website at ttp://www.foodallergy.org/support-groups
*Reach out to the community to spread awareness, educate, and advocate. Become familiar with available resources. Participate in a FARE Walk for Food Allergy in your area.
*Contact your local/state/federal representatives to voice your concern for needed legislation regarding food allergies and anaphylaxis.
*Research, Research, Research to stay informed.
Read our FACET Advocate blogpost on Food Allergy Awareness:
The need for understanding, compassion and support.
The need for understanding, compassion and support.