Living With Severe Food Allergies: A Guide to Managing Life’s Invisible Threats

Hannah Jacobs was only 13 when she died within hours of sipping her hot chocolate. The coroner cited a “failure to follow allergy discussion procedures.”

Sky News reported that Hannah had been severely allergic to dairy, fish, and eggs since infancy. All it took was a sip from a drink containing cow’s milk that ended her short life.

An inquest heard that her mom Abimbola Duyile ordered two hot chocolates with soya milk from a coffeeshop in east London. Shortly afterward, Hannah complained of chest pains and itchy lips. She died moments later.

Hannah’s parents urged schools and businesses to recognize that food allergies are a serious, unpredictable health condition – not a lifestyle choice.

The tragic part is that her death could have been prevented had she been administered an epi-pen. Her story drives home the fact that living with severe food allergies can sometimes be uncomfortable or life-threatening.

With the right knowledge and strategies, you can lead a safe and fulfilling life. Let’s discuss understanding and managing severe food allergies.

The Usual Suspects

While almost any food can cause an allergic reaction, some are more notorious than others.

Cow’s Milk

A common childhood allergy, Healthline says cow’s milk allergies affect two to three percent of babies and toddlers.

Although most kids outgrow the condition, some adults remain allergic to cow’s milk. An allergic reaction can occur within minutes or several hours later. The only treatment is to avoid foods containing cow’s milk altogether.

Unfortunately, cow’s milk has been getting some bad press as well. The Enfamil lawsuit had many parents shocked and worried that their preterm infants were fed the cow’s milk-based formula while in the hospital.

The Enfamil formula is fed to premature infants in neonatal intensive care units when human breast milk is not an option.

Major baby formula manufacturers Enfamil and Similac were accused of not warning consumers about the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants fed their baby formula.

TorHoerman Law reports major developments in the ongoing litigation, including a landmark $495 million verdict.

Eggs

An egg allergy is another common childhood allergy, often outgrown with age. However, adults diagnosed with hen’s egg white allergy (EWA) face a few challenges.

According to News Medical, a total allergen elimination diet is the only way to manage the allergy.

Even with an egg-free diet, constant vigilance and fear of reactions can affect your emotional and social life. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

They may include skin reactions like hives, eczema, and swelling. Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain are common digestive symptoms. Breathing problems, wheezing, or anaphylaxis have been reported in severe cases.

Peanuts and Tree Nuts

These allergies often persist into adulthood and can be serious. If you’re allergic to one tree nut, it’s safest to avoid all tree nuts and their products.

Even nut butters and oils can put you at higher risk of reacting to other types as well. That’s why it’s crucial to always carry an epi-pen.

The same applies to peanuts. This common allergy can cause severe, potentially life-threatening reactions.

Although the exact cause of peanut allergies is unknown, a family history can increase the risk.

Shellfish

Mayo Clinic says a shellfish allergy is the immune system’s abnormal reaction to proteins in certain marine animals.

Some people with shellfish allergies react to all types, while others react to only certain kinds. Reactions can range from mild symptoms, like hives or a stuffy nose, to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

The condition requires immediate medical treatment with an epi-pen and a follow-up visit to the emergency room.

Living With Severe Food Allergies

TheConversation explains that becoming adept at reading food labels is a necessity.

Manufacturers must list common allergens, but it’s important to stay alert as some allergens may appear under different names.

When eating out, inform staff that you have allergies and inquire about ingredients and food preparation methods.

Despite all precautions, accidental exposures can happen. Always carry your prescribed emergency medication and ensure those around you know how to use it.

Living with severe food allergies can be isolating and stressful, and feeling anxious is completely normal.

Connecting with support groups and counseling can provide comfort and is a reminder that you’re not alone on your journey. Millions of others struggle to navigate allergen-free diets and eating plants.

Managing severe food allergies requires vigilance, education, and support. By understanding your allergies, communicating effectively, and preparing for emergencies, you lead a normal, happy life.