Why do food allergy parents take a potential reaction so seriously?
Food allergies are real. They are potentially life-threatening.
There is no cure. Strict avoidance is key to preventing a reaction, followed by epinephrine in the event of a reaction.
Epinephrine is considered the first line of defense and can help, but for various reasons (such as how quickly or not administered, injector device fails etc.) may not be effective.
On epinephrine auto-injectors it is noted that after administration to call 9-1-1.
Why? Anyone who has been treated with epinephrine following anaphylaxis should be transported by ambulance to an emergency room, where they will continue to be monitored. In some cases a biphasic reaction could occur or other conditions that need medical attention.
“Anaphylaxis is a sudden and severe allergic reaction that occurs within minutes of exposure. Immediate medical attention is needed for this condition. Without treatment, anaphylaxis can get worse very quickly and lead to death within 15 minutes”, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
It is serious, and that is why parents treat it accordingly.
We love someone with food allergies and are simply doing the best we can with the knowledge we have, to protect their life.
Resource:
The U.S. National Library of Medicine, Allergic reactions: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia May 4, 2021.
AAACI, Experts agree: Even if severe allergic reaction is in doubt, epinephrine should be used | Experts agree it’s best to use epinephrine in all emergency situations. | ACAAI Public Website May 4, 2021.
AAACI Food Allergy Avoidance | ACAAI Public Website May 4, 2021.
Harvard Health Publishing Epinephrine is the only effective treatment for anaphylaxis – Harvard Health Blog – Harvard Health Publishing May 4, 2021.
