Next Event: Allergy & Asthma Conference Fri Mar 19, 2010 @07:15AM - 04:45PM
The Journey: Researching & "Packing"

Adjusting to life with food allergies is not a simple task: it’s a journey.
Like every journey, it has ups and downs. Think of it like taking a trip.
Explore the phases of “The Journey” as you adjust to life with food allergies, and we’ll accompany you along the way!

journey2

Before you go on a trip, you probably do a little research first to learn about where you’re going and to help streamline your plans and get the most out of your trip. Then you pack things that you’ll need when you get there. The same process works for a person with a new food allergy diagnosis!

Research your "destination"—Learn about food allergies.

  • Learn the basics of food allergies. Check out our section on Food Allergy Basics.
  • Can you have a mild peanut allergy? Read this Allergy Moms article.
  • What can your allergy test results tell you about the severity of your allergies? Learn about food allergy diagnosis.
  • Find books and videos to learn about food allergies (link to 6.4)

"Pack" for your journey--- Get the facts behind you. FASGMN recommends:

  • Get your diagnosis from an AAAAI  board-certified allergist
  • Ask your doctor for a written food allergy action plan.
  1. Food Allergy Action Plan by FAAN                
  2. Anaphylaxis Action Plan by Children’s Physician Network of MN       
  • Stay informed about your doctor-recommended medications
  1. EpiPen, Dey Pharmaceuticals              
  2. Twinject, Sciele Pharmaceuticals   
  • Ensure that you have 2 epinephrine auto-injectors available at all times.
  • Consider a medical identification bracelet
  • Read every food label EVERY time. Call food manufacturers with questions about ingredients or cross contamination possibilities.
  1. Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA)
  2. Q&A about FALCPA by FDA
  3. Q&A about FALCPA by FAAN 
  4. How to Read a Label by FAAN            
  • Educate others about your food allergy. If your child has food allergies, only leave him/her with other caregivers who are trained in how to, prevent, recognize and treat a reaction.
  • Beware of hidden allergens  51.81 Kb .