Photo by Waldo Jaquith
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, I am a mom sharing what has worked for me. Always consult with you family doctor/pediatrician before making any changes or if you have questions. The web can be a good place for info, but it should not be your final stop.
As a mom with life threatening allergies and having two kids with medical conditions, the importance to keep them healthy is overwhelming at times. Even if you don't have kids with allergies, your children may be in a "peanut-free" class or a "latex free" class at school or daycare. Here are some tips for dealing with an allergy:
If you suspect your child has an allergy, talk to your doctor IMMEDIATELY. There is testing that can be done to rule out/diagnose an allergy. If your child is diagnosed with an allergy, make sure all teachers, daycare admistrators and coaches know of the allergy.
If you child does have an allergy, make sure your child takes all daily medications as prescribed. Make sure any emergency medications such as Epi-Pens and inhalers are in date and in a easy to get to location (purse,diaper bag, school bag). Keep a list of all medications with you in case of emergency. It's easier than remembering what they take and the dosages when you stressed.
Photo by KellyK
Make sure to learn the laws of the state you live in regarding emergency medications for your child (if necessary). Teach your child when emergency medication need to be used and how to administer them. If the child is not allowed to carry emergency medications, make sure staff at your child's school or daycare know how to use them.
Teach family members who spend a lot of time with the child how to recognize signs of an allergic reaction and what to do in an emergency. Show how to use inhalers, Epi-pens, and other emergency medications. Advise them when to call the child's doctor or 911.
Invest in a medical alert ID tag, especially if your child's alllergies are severe or has a communication disability. There are a few companies that offer these types of ID, including bracelets, necklaces and shoe tags, in different colors and designs. If you child spends a lot of time away from you, this is a wise investment. Pick an option that your child is most likely to wear or have them help make the decision if they are old enough. Make sure to include your cell phone number in any emergency information.
If your child does not have allergies but is in a "peanut-free" classroom, a great alternative is sunflower seed butter. You can find it at organic food stores, such as Whole Foods, or larger grocery stores may carry it. Price wise, it costs about the same as organic peanut butter. My kids love it and when I need to make a treat that calls for peanut butter, I substitute. I made Chex Mix Puppy Chow for a bake sale with it and just marked each bag with the ingredients. If you do send it to school with your child, advise the teacher it is sunflower seed butter and not peanut butter.
A good list of "latex-free" products can be found through the American Latex Allergy Association. They have a list which is a good starting point for finding alternative products for people with latex allergies.
With planning, an allergy is something that can be lived with and worked around.
When Jennifer isn't making sunflower seed cookies for a party or finding a lost Medic Alert bracelet, you can find her at Toast on the Ceiling.
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Hello,
I came across your blog while searching for medical alerts and I definitely agree with your remark concerning investing in a medical alert ID tag. Allergies can be very serious, especially for children who don't know any better. Medical alerts perform a function a mother can't if she isn't around. American Medical ID has a huge selection to choose from, and even a children's section of medical jewelry. You or your readers should check it out if you have the time:
http://www.americanmedical-id.com/