How to Protect Yourself from Your Food Allergy

Steps

1. If you do find out you are allergic to a food, candy, ingredient, nut, product etc, you will probably want to go to the doctor for tests. (They will probably only take your blood.) The doctor will tell you the items to which you are allergic. He may also prescribe an Epi-Pen in case you have a bad reaction. Epi-Pens come in junior and regular. The doctor will probably show you how to use it; if they don't, read the directions. An Epi-Pen will be prescribed only if you are at risk for anaphylaxis.
2. Epi-Pen Use - Take the Epi-Pen from the box and covering.
3. Pop off the grey stopper on the back.
4. Jab the black tip firmly into your left thigh and hold it there for about 10 "Mississippis." The Epi-Pen is a needle and it will stall or stop a reaction from occurring for about 10-15 minutes. You will either want to be taken to the nearest hospital or call 911 as soon as or before you inject it. The Epi-Pen can be inserted through any fabric, including denim, so there's no reason to remove your clothing.
5. If you have food allergies you will want to read ingredients on everything.
6. Ask restaurants what oils they use; if they use something you're allergic to, make sure it does not come into contact with your food.
7. Stay away from foods that may contain allergens. Eat at another table or keep your distance.
8. Baked goods are sometimes tough; ask the person who made it. If they used a mix, just refuse, but thank them for the info.
9. If you ever feel uncomfortable about anything in your surroundings, you can always leave. This is about your health, so don't be concerned about politeness.

Tips

• If you use an Epi-Pen, don't throw it away. Have the EMT take it.
• Meet other people with food allergies; they understand.
• Never ever eat or drink something you're allergic to just because you want to participate or be "cool". You only get one life, and in that life, you can have lots of chances to be "cool."

Warnings

• Keep your Epi-Pen with you at all times along with Benadryl for relief from hives or rashes.

Things You'll Need

• Epi-Pen
• Benadryl
• Phone

External Links

• http://www.epipen.com/default.aspx
• http://www.foodallergy.org/

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