Ah, what is going on the world of Carmen Sandiego?
She is still stateside, enjoying her job and balancing work and family, like so many of us are...
I've taken the little one to the allergist for skin-testing recently. Great news! According to the skin test he is no longer allergic to peanuts or shellfish! I have tried a little peanut (two peanuts, to be exact) and he was fine. The Dr. says to introduce those items into his diet slowly, so that is what we are doing. VERY slowly.
And I am still my crunchy garbanzo bean self, as one of my sisters has so affectionately named me. I watched Food, Inc. the other day, and it put some pep in my step as far as my transition to healthier, organic foods goes. Unfortunately, it costs more to eat properly in this country, and so some of the change is slow going. But I'm getting there, and finding ways to make it affordable for my family. There are lots of ways! I will share with you what I've done in the future, maybe you will find some useful information.
Although having a child with food allergies is challenging, it forced me to think about what we eat. I started reading labels to find out what was "safe", and was surprised by what I found. I thought a can of beans would be, well, beans, salt, and water. Boy was I wrong. And not only about the beans, about almost everything. So I started going back to basics. I read the labels of everything I purchase, and I opt for the most natural, most basic option I can afford. I look for the shortest ingredient list and for that list to have recognizable ingredients. When I buy canned beans, the ingredients are actually water, beans and salt. My yogurt contains cultured milk, vanilla, sugar and pectin. It might not be organic (yet) but it's a start.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Life has been so hectic!
I started a new job, so I am now a full-time working mom a.k.a a woman that always tired and has no free time. I'm working on adjusting and getting more organized. I miss blogging, among other things, and I'm trying to figure out how everyone else does it all.
In the world of food allergies there is a lot of news.
First - I did a training at the PHELC Conference entitled Food Allergies in the Day Care Setting. It was well received by everyone. To be honest, I was a little surprised by how misinformed so many of the day care providers were (are?) about food allergies. Almost all of them had at least one food allergic child in their care, but only one (out of 70+) had a food allergy action plan on file. ONE! Thankfully, they took our class, and now they are more informed. Hopefully they will implement the techniques and strategies we gave them in the class, and make their centers safer for all of the children.
Second - The holidays are here. So please be kind and patient with us PLFA's- people living with food allergies. The holidays can be quite a challenge for obvious reasons, and a lot of people just.don't.get.it.
Third - I'm thinking about starting a local group for parents of kids with food allergies. I'll keep you all updated.
Happy Holidays!
In the world of food allergies there is a lot of news.
First - I did a training at the PHELC Conference entitled Food Allergies in the Day Care Setting. It was well received by everyone. To be honest, I was a little surprised by how misinformed so many of the day care providers were (are?) about food allergies. Almost all of them had at least one food allergic child in their care, but only one (out of 70+) had a food allergy action plan on file. ONE! Thankfully, they took our class, and now they are more informed. Hopefully they will implement the techniques and strategies we gave them in the class, and make their centers safer for all of the children.
Second - The holidays are here. So please be kind and patient with us PLFA's- people living with food allergies. The holidays can be quite a challenge for obvious reasons, and a lot of people just.don't.get.it.
Third - I'm thinking about starting a local group for parents of kids with food allergies. I'll keep you all updated.
Happy Holidays!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Accidents Happen
Two mornings ago, I got up and gave my son a bowl of cereal. With cow's milk.
Usually, I don't even have cow's milk in my fridge, but my niece is here for the summer and so we have milk for her. I'm not even sure how I made that mistake, but I did. I poured the milk in bowl, gave it to him, and he ate every drop. And when he asked for more, I opened the fridge and realized that the soy milk was too far back for me to have moved it that morning. It was then that I realized I had given my son the wrong milk. I got him another bowl of cereal, with the correct milk, and gave it to him. And he ate it all, despite the fact that by this time his eyes were red and swollen, his face was red and he had already started breaking out in hives. He was scratching and eating cereal, and I felt like the worst parent on the planet. I got the dye free children's allergy medication, and gave him the "mommy doesn't want to use the Epi-Pen or go the ER so this better work" dose. It did. Thankfully.
He was still red and itching for a while, but that is manageable. We went to the doctor that afternoon, and I told her about my mistake. She asked me how it happened, and then called in a script for a stronger medicine, just in case. She totally understood my desire not to use the Epi-Pen unless he really needed it (like he can't breath) but she also reminded me not to be afraid to use it if he does need it.
Crisis averted. Baby safe. And a big thank you to all of my friends and family members that reminded me that mothers make mistakes, ALL of us.
Usually, I don't even have cow's milk in my fridge, but my niece is here for the summer and so we have milk for her. I'm not even sure how I made that mistake, but I did. I poured the milk in bowl, gave it to him, and he ate every drop. And when he asked for more, I opened the fridge and realized that the soy milk was too far back for me to have moved it that morning. It was then that I realized I had given my son the wrong milk. I got him another bowl of cereal, with the correct milk, and gave it to him. And he ate it all, despite the fact that by this time his eyes were red and swollen, his face was red and he had already started breaking out in hives. He was scratching and eating cereal, and I felt like the worst parent on the planet. I got the dye free children's allergy medication, and gave him the "mommy doesn't want to use the Epi-Pen or go the ER so this better work" dose. It did. Thankfully.
He was still red and itching for a while, but that is manageable. We went to the doctor that afternoon, and I told her about my mistake. She asked me how it happened, and then called in a script for a stronger medicine, just in case. She totally understood my desire not to use the Epi-Pen unless he really needed it (like he can't breath) but she also reminded me not to be afraid to use it if he does need it.
Crisis averted. Baby safe. And a big thank you to all of my friends and family members that reminded me that mothers make mistakes, ALL of us.
Sunday, May 02, 2010
Yay! We made it through a week at day care without any reactions.
In the end, I decided to send all of his food. I was, obviously, concerned about cross-contamination, forgetfulness and accidents, but after reading their menu I was less than impressed. Here's what the students ate one day this week:
Breakfast: Cheese grits, toast with jelly, pears, milk
AM Snack: Cinnamon buns, grape juice
Lunch: Hamburger on bun, roundabouts (tater tots), pineapple, milk
PM Snack: Chex Mix, Orange Juice
Here's another day:
Breakfast: Rice krispies, sliced bananas, milk
AM Snack: Cheese toast, grape juice
Lunch: Ground beef & cheese pizza, corn, Fruit Toss, milk
PM Snack: Chocolate Chip cookies, orange juice
On those two days, my son could have eaten pears, grape juice, roundabouts (if they made his separately), the hamburger without the bun, sliced bananas, and corn. Yeah.
Aside from that, I was less than impressed with the nutritional balance of those meals. Where are the veggies? The juice is not even fruit juice, it's a powder mix similar to Kool-Aid. Cinnamon buns and chocolate chips cookies as regular snacks? Don't get me wrong, my son eats cake and cookies and other junk food, but not multiple times a week. Those are treats, and they would be even if I didn't have to find dairy-free ways to prepare them. But he also eats, and loves, things like carrot sticks, peaches, bananas, and spinach. After looking at that menu, I completely understood why some of you send your children to day care/school with their lunch. Most people wouldn't even see anything wrong with this menu, as evidenced by the fact that this center is full of children eating this food every day.
What do you think? Is this standard fare at day care centers? Would you be satisfied with this menu? Do your children eat like this anyway?
In the end, I decided to send all of his food. I was, obviously, concerned about cross-contamination, forgetfulness and accidents, but after reading their menu I was less than impressed. Here's what the students ate one day this week:
Breakfast: Cheese grits, toast with jelly, pears, milk
AM Snack: Cinnamon buns, grape juice
Lunch: Hamburger on bun, roundabouts (tater tots), pineapple, milk
PM Snack: Chex Mix, Orange Juice
Here's another day:
Breakfast: Rice krispies, sliced bananas, milk
AM Snack: Cheese toast, grape juice
Lunch: Ground beef & cheese pizza, corn, Fruit Toss, milk
PM Snack: Chocolate Chip cookies, orange juice
On those two days, my son could have eaten pears, grape juice, roundabouts (if they made his separately), the hamburger without the bun, sliced bananas, and corn. Yeah.
Aside from that, I was less than impressed with the nutritional balance of those meals. Where are the veggies? The juice is not even fruit juice, it's a powder mix similar to Kool-Aid. Cinnamon buns and chocolate chips cookies as regular snacks? Don't get me wrong, my son eats cake and cookies and other junk food, but not multiple times a week. Those are treats, and they would be even if I didn't have to find dairy-free ways to prepare them. But he also eats, and loves, things like carrot sticks, peaches, bananas, and spinach. After looking at that menu, I completely understood why some of you send your children to day care/school with their lunch. Most people wouldn't even see anything wrong with this menu, as evidenced by the fact that this center is full of children eating this food every day.
What do you think? Is this standard fare at day care centers? Would you be satisfied with this menu? Do your children eat like this anyway?
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Day Care
For the past two years, I have basically been a SAHM (Stay at Home Mother). I work as a tutor, but that takes place in the afternoon and on weekends between October and March, and during those times my son always stayed with a family member. Next week, my son will be going to day care. As of right now, it is only for a week, but it might become a long-term thing, depending on my work situation. And I am a little nervous.
Thankfully, my mother teaches Pre-K in this center. Actually, that's the reason he's going there, because my mother will be in the building, and she knows his teacher and the type of environment he will be in all day. I personally prefer home/family day care for young children, but in this case the center is the better choice. This center has a kitchen, so as part of the cost the children are fed two meals and two snacks a day. Obviously, my son can not eat all of the meals they prepare, but he can eat most of the fruit, and things like potatoes and juice. Initially, I was going to supply ALL of his food (including snacks and drinks). But the woman that runs the kitchen is really willing to work with me, and has begun the process of looking up ingredients so we know what is safe for my son. And, it would save me some money not to have to provide everything, especially considering that day care is quite an expense.
So now I have a decision to make. Do I pack all of his food or just some of it? Should I let him eat food from the center, keeping in mind that the likelihood for cross-contamination or accidental exposure goes up, even if he is only eating "safe" foods? Or should I err on the side of caution, and not take the risk? Does it make a difference that my mother is in the building (not the room)? Or that my younger sister babysits for the woman that runs the kitchen, so she has a slightly personally relationship with family? Do those things affect how cautious and careful she will be when making his food?
I know that I might sound a little paranoid. But this is my child. I know adults that think milk allergy=lactose intolerant. People have told me that food allergies aren't "real". (You think so? Tell that to families of the 150 people in the US that die of food allergic reactions every year.) I've had people earnestly offer yogurt or cheese, knowing that he has a milk allergy. Or cookies and cake. Oftentimes, they just don't know...or think things through. And so I have my reservations about trusting other people to feed my son. But, I also recognize that I am in a position to educate, which I am willing to do. Having my mother in the building and knowing the cook might make it easier for me, safer for him and maybe I can educate more people about the realities of food allergies.
Ah, decisions, decisions.
Thankfully, my mother teaches Pre-K in this center. Actually, that's the reason he's going there, because my mother will be in the building, and she knows his teacher and the type of environment he will be in all day. I personally prefer home/family day care for young children, but in this case the center is the better choice. This center has a kitchen, so as part of the cost the children are fed two meals and two snacks a day. Obviously, my son can not eat all of the meals they prepare, but he can eat most of the fruit, and things like potatoes and juice. Initially, I was going to supply ALL of his food (including snacks and drinks). But the woman that runs the kitchen is really willing to work with me, and has begun the process of looking up ingredients so we know what is safe for my son. And, it would save me some money not to have to provide everything, especially considering that day care is quite an expense.
So now I have a decision to make. Do I pack all of his food or just some of it? Should I let him eat food from the center, keeping in mind that the likelihood for cross-contamination or accidental exposure goes up, even if he is only eating "safe" foods? Or should I err on the side of caution, and not take the risk? Does it make a difference that my mother is in the building (not the room)? Or that my younger sister babysits for the woman that runs the kitchen, so she has a slightly personally relationship with family? Do those things affect how cautious and careful she will be when making his food?
I know that I might sound a little paranoid. But this is my child. I know adults that think milk allergy=lactose intolerant. People have told me that food allergies aren't "real". (You think so? Tell that to families of the 150 people in the US that die of food allergic reactions every year.) I've had people earnestly offer yogurt or cheese, knowing that he has a milk allergy. Or cookies and cake. Oftentimes, they just don't know...or think things through. And so I have my reservations about trusting other people to feed my son. But, I also recognize that I am in a position to educate, which I am willing to do. Having my mother in the building and knowing the cook might make it easier for me, safer for him and maybe I can educate more people about the realities of food allergies.
Ah, decisions, decisions.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
E-training
The ASCIA offers a free anaphylaxis e-training. If has been specifically developed for school and childcare staff, but parents, friends and patients are also encouraged to take it brush up on their skills and knowledge. I haven't taken it yet, but I will post an update after I take it, which will hopefully be this weekend. Click on the title or the link below to check it out.
Anaphylaxis E-Course Link
Anaphylaxis E-Course Link
Monday, March 08, 2010
WebMD and food allergy prevention
I read an article on WebMD the other day about preventing food allergies in subsequent children when one child has already been diagnosed with food allergies. This is a topic that concerns me for obvious reasons, as my son has multiple severe food allergies. So far, most of the information I've read has been conflicting and inconclusive. The basic debate is whether or not pregnant women should utilize avoidance measures to prevent food allergies in their children. According to the study referenced in this article, women that took avoidance measures were less likely to have children with food allergies. However, at the end of the article is the following disclaimer:
Robert Wood, MD, director of the division of pediatric allergy and immunology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, tells WebMD that pregnant women should not feel guilty if they do not want to follow avoidance measures.
"I explain to my patients that exposure [to food allergens] in pregnancy seems to be a risk factor in some studies, but the results are not consistent. We don't have the answer," he says.
I think that for the mother of a child with one, or maybe even two, food allergies, taking avoidance measures would be fairly straightforward. But for someone like me that would have to avoid multiple foods it is considerably more complicated. Although I work hard to ensure that my son has adequate nutrition despite his food allergies, it would be more difficult for me to do the same for myself and a growing fetus. Not impossible, but difficult. And eliminating multiple foods has its own risks, which have to be weighed against the risks of the baby developing food allergies.
Unfortunately, past experience has shown me that the numbers might not be on my side. For example, the majority of women experience their water breaking with their first child while they are home in bed. Only a small percentage of women experience their water breaking while they are standing, because the baby's head acts as a cork. Very few women are in public when this does happen. I was walking around Wal-mart when my water broke, I was one of the few. Children who are breastfed develop food allergies at a lower rate and of those who do develop food allergies, they are less likely to have multiple food allergies. I breastfed my son well past his first birthday, and yet he is allergic to four of the big eight. He is one of the few. To be honest, I would be quite upset if I avoided all of those foods, breastfed, and my child still developed multiple food allergies. There's a lot to consider when making this decision.
Friday, March 05, 2010
Binky's Big Day
It was Arthur's birthday and the whole class sang Happy Birthday. He brought special treats for everyone at snack time.
Mr. Ratuburn asked Arthur to pick a friend to help pass out the birthday cookies. "Pick me!" they all shouted. Everyone wanted to help except Binky. He knew he couldn't eat birthday treats or even help pass them out because of his food allergies.
"I want Binky to help me," said Arthur. "Binky has food allergies," said Francine. "He can't help you."
Arthur smiled. "We checked with Binky's mom, and my dad made chocolate chip cookies from Cherrybrook Kitchen that everyone can eat!"
Binky jumped up to help Arthur. "The first one is for you Binky," said Arthur. Binky took a huge bite. "WOW these are awesome?" said Binky.
The class cheered as Binky passed around the cookies. When he finished, he whispered to Arthur, "Thanks. This is the best day ever!"
This is the story that was on the back of the Cherrybrook Kitchen chocolate chip cookie mix. I hope you enjoyed it, I know we did.
Mr. Ratuburn asked Arthur to pick a friend to help pass out the birthday cookies. "Pick me!" they all shouted. Everyone wanted to help except Binky. He knew he couldn't eat birthday treats or even help pass them out because of his food allergies.
"I want Binky to help me," said Arthur. "Binky has food allergies," said Francine. "He can't help you."
Arthur smiled. "We checked with Binky's mom, and my dad made chocolate chip cookies from Cherrybrook Kitchen that everyone can eat!"
Binky jumped up to help Arthur. "The first one is for you Binky," said Arthur. Binky took a huge bite. "WOW these are awesome?" said Binky.
The class cheered as Binky passed around the cookies. When he finished, he whispered to Arthur, "Thanks. This is the best day ever!"
This is the story that was on the back of the Cherrybrook Kitchen chocolate chip cookie mix. I hope you enjoyed it, I know we did.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Yay for Cherrybrook Kitchen!
After being informed by another food allergy mama that our local Target had some peanut, egg and dairy free cake mixes, I finally got to check it out. Initially, I went to the wrong Target and was frustrated by the blank stares and dumbfounded looks of the employees when I asked if they had them. Then I went to the bigger Target (I think the employee said it was a "Target Fresh") and found them. They had a few varieties, mostly from Cherrybrook Kitchen. I chose the chocolate chips cookies because I've successfully made amazing cakes and cupcakes that he can eat (a modified vegan recipe) but I haven't found a cookie recipe that I like yet. So, we came home and whipped up a batch of chocolate chip cookies. Most of us ate one, my son ate two, and I put away the rest for another day. So, what's the verdict?
Drum-roll please...
They were good! The taste and sweetness were just right, they were quick and easy to make, and everyone liked them. They were a little "cakey", but I took them out a little earlier than recommended because I wanted them to be soft and chewy, which they were. Overall, these were a hit and something I would buy again.
Drum-roll please...
They were good! The taste and sweetness were just right, they were quick and easy to make, and everyone liked them. They were a little "cakey", but I took them out a little earlier than recommended because I wanted them to be soft and chewy, which they were. Overall, these were a hit and something I would buy again.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Travel and Food Allergies
I read an article the other day about travel and food allergies. According to a study conducted by the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, 90% of food allergic families have not traveled outside of the US due to issues surrounding medical care and unfamiliar foods. I think this is so unfortunate.
There are a number of resources available to food allergic persons that make international travel more manageable and safe. Yes, there is going to be more work and preparation for the food allergic family. More research and perhaps luggage. But there are so many viable options for international travel.
For the newbie to international travel with food allergies, Europe is a great place to start. Good command of the English language, excellent health care (that you will not have to pay for) and an understanding of food allergies abound in many countries. I doubt that a vacation to England will be fraught with potential minefields, at least not any more than a trip to visit grandma or your buddy from college. There won't be language issues, the society is familiar with food allergies, packaged food is labeled with potential allergens, and the medical care is excellent. If the long airplane ride or the thought of being an ocean away from the US scares you, start out with Canada, then you can take comfort in the fact that you can be airlifted back to the US in no time.
Although I would not recommend a trip to a less developed country (in terms of infrastructure and medical care) for the novice traveler, especially one with a history of anaphylaxis, you would be surprised how easy it can be. The primary reason for this is that foods are generally prepared fresh daily. It is easy to eliminate potential allergens when you know what goes into everything. Go to the market. Purchase the fresh food. Cook it. Enjoy.
Of course, there are a few things that will make a trip for the food allergic family less stressful. Here are my suggestions:
1) Stay in a hotel where the rooms/suites have kitchens, or rent an apartment or guesthouse for the duration of your trip. This way you can prepare most of your meals, and you don't have to deal with the hassle of asking questions and fretting about cross-contamination at every meal. And renting an apartment of guesthouse often works out cheaper than a hotel for a family or a group of friends.
2) Get a card printed that lists your food allergies in the language of the country you will be visiting. For some examples check out SelectWisely. Be sure to give the card to waiters, restaurant managers, friends, and others that will prepare or come into contact with your food. In restaurants, insist that the card is shown to the chef. If it's feasible, learn how to say a few phrases, like "I have a life-threatening allergy to peanuts" in the language(s) of the place(s) you will be visiting. If you have multiple allergies, talior your phrase to meet your needs. I have learned how to say "My son can not eat that, he has food allergies" in many languages.
3) Do your research! Depending on your allergy, some countries will be more difficult than others for you. If you are just venturing into the world of travel with food allergies, avoid going to countries where your allergen is a diet staple. You can always go on your next trip. For example, if you are allergic to soy, China might not be your best choice for a first trip. Also, try to find out in advance if there are local restaurants and grocery stores that are food allergy friendly, or will make your life easier (i.e. Vegan if you have a dairy allergy). A little more research before you go makes for a better trip once you arrive. Find out where the local hospital is, and if it is equipped to handle a life threatening reaction. If it isn't find out how far you would have to go, or stay in a different area. The internet has a lot of resources, so look for information that is specific to your allergy and destination. Or simply type in "food allergy" and "travel" and go from there.
4) Prepare. Order a special meal or bring your own food for the journey, pack extra allergy medication, make sure your epinephrine auto-injectors and inhalers are in good working order, get doctors notes for medication and food (especially liquids) to make going through security checks and customs easier. Put a few things in your carry on and checked bags to "hold you over", just in case. Something that you enjoy eating, but does not require refrigeration or cooking. For example, I always have one or two extra containers of shelf-stable soy milk, instant oatmeal and some fruit bars for my son. If we are unable to get to the store as soon as we arrive, or something unexpected happens, like a flight delay or cancellation, he will not be hungry and I don't have the added stress of finding something safe for him to eat. We have only had to my "emergency stash" once so far, but every slightly heavier carry-on was worth that one time of being able to sit in an airport, pour milk into oatmeal, stir and feed my son, stress-free. If you are adult with food allergies, you might want to bring along a medical release form. It authorizes others to administer life saving medication in case of a severe reaction. And don't forget your medical ID.
5) Don't be embarrassed! You know how to handle your food allergies, and you are responsible for keeping yourself safe. The same things that you do at home usually apply wherever you go. Don't be afraid to talk to airline staff about special meals, snacks and accomidations. For example, if you have a severe allergy, you might want to board early so that you can wipe down your seat area without delaying the boarding process. Call the airline and hotel beforehand to find out if they can accommodate you. Talk to your travel companions, your waitstaff, and anyone else that needs to know about your allergies. If people are ignorant and rude, adjust your plans accordingly. Dealing with ignorance is better than dealing with a hospital trip.
6) After all of the trips to the pharmacy, phone calls, organizing medical information, packing, watching your bank balance diminish and triple checking your plans, RELAX. Enjoy your vacation! People with food allergies travel every day without having any reactions, and you can too.
There are a number of resources available to food allergic persons that make international travel more manageable and safe. Yes, there is going to be more work and preparation for the food allergic family. More research and perhaps luggage. But there are so many viable options for international travel.
For the newbie to international travel with food allergies, Europe is a great place to start. Good command of the English language, excellent health care (that you will not have to pay for) and an understanding of food allergies abound in many countries. I doubt that a vacation to England will be fraught with potential minefields, at least not any more than a trip to visit grandma or your buddy from college. There won't be language issues, the society is familiar with food allergies, packaged food is labeled with potential allergens, and the medical care is excellent. If the long airplane ride or the thought of being an ocean away from the US scares you, start out with Canada, then you can take comfort in the fact that you can be airlifted back to the US in no time.
Although I would not recommend a trip to a less developed country (in terms of infrastructure and medical care) for the novice traveler, especially one with a history of anaphylaxis, you would be surprised how easy it can be. The primary reason for this is that foods are generally prepared fresh daily. It is easy to eliminate potential allergens when you know what goes into everything. Go to the market. Purchase the fresh food. Cook it. Enjoy.
Of course, there are a few things that will make a trip for the food allergic family less stressful. Here are my suggestions:
1) Stay in a hotel where the rooms/suites have kitchens, or rent an apartment or guesthouse for the duration of your trip. This way you can prepare most of your meals, and you don't have to deal with the hassle of asking questions and fretting about cross-contamination at every meal. And renting an apartment of guesthouse often works out cheaper than a hotel for a family or a group of friends.
2) Get a card printed that lists your food allergies in the language of the country you will be visiting. For some examples check out SelectWisely. Be sure to give the card to waiters, restaurant managers, friends, and others that will prepare or come into contact with your food. In restaurants, insist that the card is shown to the chef. If it's feasible, learn how to say a few phrases, like "I have a life-threatening allergy to peanuts" in the language(s) of the place(s) you will be visiting. If you have multiple allergies, talior your phrase to meet your needs. I have learned how to say "My son can not eat that, he has food allergies" in many languages.
3) Do your research! Depending on your allergy, some countries will be more difficult than others for you. If you are just venturing into the world of travel with food allergies, avoid going to countries where your allergen is a diet staple. You can always go on your next trip. For example, if you are allergic to soy, China might not be your best choice for a first trip. Also, try to find out in advance if there are local restaurants and grocery stores that are food allergy friendly, or will make your life easier (i.e. Vegan if you have a dairy allergy). A little more research before you go makes for a better trip once you arrive. Find out where the local hospital is, and if it is equipped to handle a life threatening reaction. If it isn't find out how far you would have to go, or stay in a different area. The internet has a lot of resources, so look for information that is specific to your allergy and destination. Or simply type in "food allergy" and "travel" and go from there.
4) Prepare. Order a special meal or bring your own food for the journey, pack extra allergy medication, make sure your epinephrine auto-injectors and inhalers are in good working order, get doctors notes for medication and food (especially liquids) to make going through security checks and customs easier. Put a few things in your carry on and checked bags to "hold you over", just in case. Something that you enjoy eating, but does not require refrigeration or cooking. For example, I always have one or two extra containers of shelf-stable soy milk, instant oatmeal and some fruit bars for my son. If we are unable to get to the store as soon as we arrive, or something unexpected happens, like a flight delay or cancellation, he will not be hungry and I don't have the added stress of finding something safe for him to eat. We have only had to my "emergency stash" once so far, but every slightly heavier carry-on was worth that one time of being able to sit in an airport, pour milk into oatmeal, stir and feed my son, stress-free. If you are adult with food allergies, you might want to bring along a medical release form. It authorizes others to administer life saving medication in case of a severe reaction. And don't forget your medical ID.
5) Don't be embarrassed! You know how to handle your food allergies, and you are responsible for keeping yourself safe. The same things that you do at home usually apply wherever you go. Don't be afraid to talk to airline staff about special meals, snacks and accomidations. For example, if you have a severe allergy, you might want to board early so that you can wipe down your seat area without delaying the boarding process. Call the airline and hotel beforehand to find out if they can accommodate you. Talk to your travel companions, your waitstaff, and anyone else that needs to know about your allergies. If people are ignorant and rude, adjust your plans accordingly. Dealing with ignorance is better than dealing with a hospital trip.
6) After all of the trips to the pharmacy, phone calls, organizing medical information, packing, watching your bank balance diminish and triple checking your plans, RELAX. Enjoy your vacation! People with food allergies travel every day without having any reactions, and you can too.
Monday, January 04, 2010
9 days, 6 airports, 5 airplanes, 2 airlines and 1 toddler
It has been a busy holiday season for us, as you can can tell from the title of this entry. We have spent a lot of time in airports and on airplanes, and some time with family and friends all over the US. I've discovered a few things about traveling with a toddler that will make future journeys easier, and also some things about traveling (and eating on the go) with food allergies.
One of the things that has truly been wonderful for us are restaurant cards. You can make your own, or print them from various websites, personally I print mine from Food Allergy Buddy. When we go to a restaurant, I give the card to the server with an explanation of the ways in which I would like to modify the chosen entree. So far, I have not encountered any problems. Most of the time either a manager or the chef comes to the table and discusses my son's allergies with me and ensures that the chosen meal is safe. This is excellent, because they are aware of "hidden" allergens that might not be apparent from the menu description, and are able to advise me of alternative options, some of which might not be on the menu.
During the holiday season, my extended family decided to have a dinner out. They chose a Tex-Mex place, and I was understandably a little concerned, as my son is allergic to all dairy. A Tex-Mex restaurant sounded like a trial by fire, but I decided not to object to their choice, while coming up with a backup plan in my mind. Much to my delight, after explaining my son's food allergies to the server and giving her the card, the chef came out and informed me that he has TWO children with food allergies and would make sure that whatever I wanted my son to eat would be prepared in a safe manner. I was ecstatic! Sure enough, his food was dairy (and other allergen) free and everyone was able to enjoy their meal.
I always have two or three cards in my wallet, just in case. They have proven invaluable to me during those times when we eat away from the safe confines of home. I've had managers comment that they love the card, as having the list of allergens written down makes their job much easier. Especially when people have multiple food allergies, it can be difficult for the manager/chef/wait staff to remember and keep track of what an individual diner can not eat. Being able to double and triple check without having to come and ask saves times and lessen the likelihood of errors and decreases frustration and anxiety for everyone. Yippee for stress-free dining!
One of the things that has truly been wonderful for us are restaurant cards. You can make your own, or print them from various websites, personally I print mine from Food Allergy Buddy. When we go to a restaurant, I give the card to the server with an explanation of the ways in which I would like to modify the chosen entree. So far, I have not encountered any problems. Most of the time either a manager or the chef comes to the table and discusses my son's allergies with me and ensures that the chosen meal is safe. This is excellent, because they are aware of "hidden" allergens that might not be apparent from the menu description, and are able to advise me of alternative options, some of which might not be on the menu.
During the holiday season, my extended family decided to have a dinner out. They chose a Tex-Mex place, and I was understandably a little concerned, as my son is allergic to all dairy. A Tex-Mex restaurant sounded like a trial by fire, but I decided not to object to their choice, while coming up with a backup plan in my mind. Much to my delight, after explaining my son's food allergies to the server and giving her the card, the chef came out and informed me that he has TWO children with food allergies and would make sure that whatever I wanted my son to eat would be prepared in a safe manner. I was ecstatic! Sure enough, his food was dairy (and other allergen) free and everyone was able to enjoy their meal.
I always have two or three cards in my wallet, just in case. They have proven invaluable to me during those times when we eat away from the safe confines of home. I've had managers comment that they love the card, as having the list of allergens written down makes their job much easier. Especially when people have multiple food allergies, it can be difficult for the manager/chef/wait staff to remember and keep track of what an individual diner can not eat. Being able to double and triple check without having to come and ask saves times and lessen the likelihood of errors and decreases frustration and anxiety for everyone. Yippee for stress-free dining!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Holidays and Food Allergies
are not the easiest combination.
What do most people think of when they think of the holidays? Food, of course. Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner. Holiday specific treats and deserts. Parties and family visits and office gatherings all involve food. Neighbors stop by with "holiday treats" and strangers offer small children goodies galore. But for a person with food allergies, seemingly benign thinks like desserts can be deadly. And it is not easy to modify some of the classic holiday food to an allergy friendly version.
Thankfully my little one is still quite young, and so some of the pitfalls are easily avoided. But he is getting older. He's already started to notice when his food looks different, and he doesn't like it. And as he grows, it will get harder to have only two or three things he can eat, versus the dozen or so options that everyone else is choosing from. Although I believe that it is important for him to learn how to live in a world that is full of allergens, I also think that when he is at home he should feel comfortable and free. He might not be able to eat everything in the house, but I would like him to be able to eat most things.
What do most people think of when they think of the holidays? Food, of course. Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner. Holiday specific treats and deserts. Parties and family visits and office gatherings all involve food. Neighbors stop by with "holiday treats" and strangers offer small children goodies galore. But for a person with food allergies, seemingly benign thinks like desserts can be deadly. And it is not easy to modify some of the classic holiday food to an allergy friendly version.
Thankfully my little one is still quite young, and so some of the pitfalls are easily avoided. But he is getting older. He's already started to notice when his food looks different, and he doesn't like it. And as he grows, it will get harder to have only two or three things he can eat, versus the dozen or so options that everyone else is choosing from. Although I believe that it is important for him to learn how to live in a world that is full of allergens, I also think that when he is at home he should feel comfortable and free. He might not be able to eat everything in the house, but I would like him to be able to eat most things.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
It's here!
We finally received the Medical ID for my son today. Yay!
On the reverse:
It fits well, is clear and easy to read, difficult for him to remove, fully adjustable and doesn't irritate his skin. YIPEE!!
Here he is out shopping with his auntie, wearing his new Medical ID.
Of course, he kept trying to take it off. At one point, he was even using his teeth to try and pry it open! Thankfully he had long sleeves, so I just pulled them down and he was on to the next distraction. Out of site, out of mind.
On the reverse:
FirstName LastName
DOB
Allergic to eggs, peanuts,
dairy, shellfish, chicken
Carries Epi-Pen
DOB
Allergic to eggs, peanuts,
dairy, shellfish, chicken
Carries Epi-Pen
It fits well, is clear and easy to read, difficult for him to remove, fully adjustable and doesn't irritate his skin. YIPEE!!
Here he is out shopping with his auntie, wearing his new Medical ID.
Of course, he kept trying to take it off. At one point, he was even using his teeth to try and pry it open! Thankfully he had long sleeves, so I just pulled them down and he was on to the next distraction. Out of site, out of mind.
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Gearing up to travel
Traveling with a little one requires more pre-planning than when it was just me or me and my husband. We can't just wake up and decide to go to Timbuktu (Tombouctou, Mali), we have to think about the logistics beforehand. My husband travels quite often, and is the king of last minute preparations. He will wait to go shopping, pack, sometimes even purchase his tickets until hours before he is going to leave. I prefer a little more preparation than that, but as a single woman I often hoped on a plane with a moments notice. Although we both know that it we are "supposed" to do things differently now that we are parents, old habits die hard. We do put a little more thought into our journeys, but we still have nomadic spirits and wanderlust leading the way. Maybe when our children are in school we will plan trips a year in advance. Maybe not.
Although we might not plan for months to take a trip, we will give ourselves at least a week. And there is a lot to do during that week. I have packing down to a science. I have a checklist that I keep on hand, and I'm organized enough that I can pack in my mind for a few days before I physically put items in suitcases. This way when I actually pack it's pretty straightforward. We also have to make sure that passports, visas, vaccinations and exemption letters are in order and up to date. I call the airline to reserve seats and check on any relevant policies. Language refresher courses or basic phrase lessons are always on my to-do list. Additionally, if it's a long trip, then there are goodbye's to say, automatic payments to arrange, people to visit, stuff to box up and shopping to be done.
Food allergies add another layer of preparation. I also have make sure I have enough food and drinks for my son to eat on the plane and for a few days once we arrive, just in case we have any difficulty finding things for him. Drinks sometimes cause a problem and I always check the allowable liquid amounts for the duration of the trip. I triple check the epi-pens and clean and shine the medical alert bracelet. We visit the doctor and make sure that applicable letters are up to date.
And as I prepare for our next trip, I'm trying to order customized silicone allergy alert wristbands in other languages, as an added layer of protection. This is going to be our first international trip with my son post-weaning, so it is going to be a learning experience for me. No more nursing to ease the discomfort, calm him down or put him to sleep. I'm still researching and trying to figure out other ways to make traveling as simple as possible. I guess we'll just have to see how it goes, and I'll definitely share my experience.
Although we might not plan for months to take a trip, we will give ourselves at least a week. And there is a lot to do during that week. I have packing down to a science. I have a checklist that I keep on hand, and I'm organized enough that I can pack in my mind for a few days before I physically put items in suitcases. This way when I actually pack it's pretty straightforward. We also have to make sure that passports, visas, vaccinations and exemption letters are in order and up to date. I call the airline to reserve seats and check on any relevant policies. Language refresher courses or basic phrase lessons are always on my to-do list. Additionally, if it's a long trip, then there are goodbye's to say, automatic payments to arrange, people to visit, stuff to box up and shopping to be done.
Food allergies add another layer of preparation. I also have make sure I have enough food and drinks for my son to eat on the plane and for a few days once we arrive, just in case we have any difficulty finding things for him. Drinks sometimes cause a problem and I always check the allowable liquid amounts for the duration of the trip. I triple check the epi-pens and clean and shine the medical alert bracelet. We visit the doctor and make sure that applicable letters are up to date.
And as I prepare for our next trip, I'm trying to order customized silicone allergy alert wristbands in other languages, as an added layer of protection. This is going to be our first international trip with my son post-weaning, so it is going to be a learning experience for me. No more nursing to ease the discomfort, calm him down or put him to sleep. I'm still researching and trying to figure out other ways to make traveling as simple as possible. I guess we'll just have to see how it goes, and I'll definitely share my experience.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Eczema
We have struggled with eczema for years. My mother has it. I have it. One of my sisters. Some cousins. Over the years, we have come up with our own natural remedies and dietary adjustments that help with flare-ups. Unfortunately, most of our doctors seem to think it is "no big deal".
When my son was born, I was not surprised to see dry, flaky, crusty patches on his skin. But soon they spread from his cheeks to the rest of his face, down his neck, and up to his scalp. They were painful. I took him to the pediatrician, who told me it was eczema, and told me to use a steroid cream. I balked at the idea of a steriod cream on a child not even 3 months old. As many people of color know, steroid creams wreck your complexion, creating light and dark spots that we spend years trying to correct. And they are addictive. So, he gave me another ointment. Soon after that my sons hair began to fall out in clumps, with the crusty stuff at the scalp attached to the clumps of hair. The doctor said it was "just cradle cap". I asked around, and although other mothers had experience with cradle cap, none of them had experienced balding as a result. I didn't know what to do. My infant son was going bald, his skin looked so bad that people stared when we were in public and the doctor thought it was all normal. Knowing that my diet was contributing, I eliminated the most likely offender, milk. At the next visit, his skin was a little better, but still pretty bad. I told the Dr. that I had eliminated milk, which seemed to help and that the ointment was a waste of time. He told me to apply it 10 times a day. I switched doctors.
The story gets worse before it gets better, mostly because although the new doctor was better, he was still generally unconcerned. Long story short, we later discovered his food allergies and the change in diet made a lot of difference. And yes, milk was one of them.
Now we have a new battle with his skin, what the doctor tells me is dyshidrotic eczema. Apparently uncommon in children, he gave me a cream which I am using with limited success. I'll let you all know how it goes. In my quest to find way to alleviate and lesson his flare-ups, I came across this series on Clearing Up Eczema. She has a lot of useful information, and I think it might help some of you that are struggling with eczema, in yourselves and your little ones. Hope it helps!
When my son was born, I was not surprised to see dry, flaky, crusty patches on his skin. But soon they spread from his cheeks to the rest of his face, down his neck, and up to his scalp. They were painful. I took him to the pediatrician, who told me it was eczema, and told me to use a steroid cream. I balked at the idea of a steriod cream on a child not even 3 months old. As many people of color know, steroid creams wreck your complexion, creating light and dark spots that we spend years trying to correct. And they are addictive. So, he gave me another ointment. Soon after that my sons hair began to fall out in clumps, with the crusty stuff at the scalp attached to the clumps of hair. The doctor said it was "just cradle cap". I asked around, and although other mothers had experience with cradle cap, none of them had experienced balding as a result. I didn't know what to do. My infant son was going bald, his skin looked so bad that people stared when we were in public and the doctor thought it was all normal. Knowing that my diet was contributing, I eliminated the most likely offender, milk. At the next visit, his skin was a little better, but still pretty bad. I told the Dr. that I had eliminated milk, which seemed to help and that the ointment was a waste of time. He told me to apply it 10 times a day. I switched doctors.
The story gets worse before it gets better, mostly because although the new doctor was better, he was still generally unconcerned. Long story short, we later discovered his food allergies and the change in diet made a lot of difference. And yes, milk was one of them.
Now we have a new battle with his skin, what the doctor tells me is dyshidrotic eczema. Apparently uncommon in children, he gave me a cream which I am using with limited success. I'll let you all know how it goes. In my quest to find way to alleviate and lesson his flare-ups, I came across this series on Clearing Up Eczema. She has a lot of useful information, and I think it might help some of you that are struggling with eczema, in yourselves and your little ones. Hope it helps!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Food allergies again...and a medical alert bracelet
Obviously, food allergies are a major part of my life. As my son gets older and begins to spend more time away from me, my angst has increased. In many ways, I am a laid back parent. I believe in letting my child explore his world, and once it isn't dangerous he pretty much has free reign. A friend of mine came to visit once, and my son was playing outside. He picked up the dirt to put it in his mouth, and she went into hysterics. Amazed by my calm, offhand reaction she asked me why I didn't seem to care if he ate the dirt. In his case, the amount of dirt he actually gets into his mouth won't kill him. And I thought that he would most likely eat it, decide it's nasty and not eat it again. And I was correct. After a few attempts, he stopped putting dirt in his mouth. But here is the other, perhaps more important reason that I'm laid back. I have bigger fish to fry. I am vigilant about what he eats and cross contamination, the type of soap and lotion he uses, and making sure he stays safe. A little dirt won't kill him, a little milk might. I think I would have been a laid back type of parent anyway, but dealing with food allergies has heightened that personality trait. There is enough stress in his life, and mine, already, why add to that stress unnecessarily?
So, with allergies being important and life threatening and my angst ever increasing, I've decided to get my son a medical alert bracelet. It is a potentially life saving measure, and one that will help me to be a little calmer when he is away from me. I spent many hours scouring the web, trying to find a bracelet that is suitable for a toddler and within my price range. What I thought would be an easy task was actually quite frustrating. The ones I like seemed to be in other countries, and the cost of international shipping equal to or more than the cost of the actual bracelet. Or the ones in my price range were too ugly, too girly or simply inappropriate for a toddler. I think I've finally decided on a sportsband, and I will post pictures and a review once we receive it. I do like those rubber/silicone wristbands that state "Food Allergies" in bold letters. They might help keep all of the well meaning strangers that are continually trying to feed my son at bay. And I also think they would be good when he is in a new environment, to remind people of his allergies. But, they would not be helpful in an emergency, so for now I'll stick to my neon orange sign and get a more traditional bracelet. I might still get one of those wristbands though, as an additional protection. That or a T-shirt that says "Don't Feed Me! You could kill me!" Okay, maybe that's a bit much. I guess "Don't Feed Me! I have food allergies" would suffice. If you see one in a 2T feel free to send it my way!
So, with allergies being important and life threatening and my angst ever increasing, I've decided to get my son a medical alert bracelet. It is a potentially life saving measure, and one that will help me to be a little calmer when he is away from me. I spent many hours scouring the web, trying to find a bracelet that is suitable for a toddler and within my price range. What I thought would be an easy task was actually quite frustrating. The ones I like seemed to be in other countries, and the cost of international shipping equal to or more than the cost of the actual bracelet. Or the ones in my price range were too ugly, too girly or simply inappropriate for a toddler. I think I've finally decided on a sportsband, and I will post pictures and a review once we receive it. I do like those rubber/silicone wristbands that state "Food Allergies" in bold letters. They might help keep all of the well meaning strangers that are continually trying to feed my son at bay. And I also think they would be good when he is in a new environment, to remind people of his allergies. But, they would not be helpful in an emergency, so for now I'll stick to my neon orange sign and get a more traditional bracelet. I might still get one of those wristbands though, as an additional protection. That or a T-shirt that says "Don't Feed Me! You could kill me!" Okay, maybe that's a bit much. I guess "Don't Feed Me! I have food allergies" would suffice. If you see one in a 2T feel free to send it my way!
Friday, November 20, 2009
How are food allergies diagnosed in children?
As I have blogged and spoken and status updated about my son's food allergies, I often hear the same questions over and over again. Aside from "what is he allergic to" and "how did you find out", a few parents wonder if maybe their child has food allergies, and want to know what they should do.
In adults and older children, food allergy is usually diagnosed by a combination of skin testing and food challenge. In younger children and babies, often the symptoms are different and the testing unreliable. Instead of the typical facial swelling, for example, a child is more likely to develop eczema, vomiting, diarrhea, fussiness, difficulty sleeping, or failure to grow properly. All of these symptoms, however, can also be indicators of other illness, so it can be difficult to make a diagnosis. In addition, it is possible to test positive for something which you can eat without a problem, hence the food challenge. A food challenge is difficult to perform on a small child as they can not express themsleves. So where does that leave you?
Well, you have a few options. First you can do elimination testing at home. If you suspect that your child has a food allergy, try eliminating the offending food from his diet. Have no idea what the offending food is? Start with the top allergens and be systematic. If you are breastfeeding, this means that you will also have to eliminate the offending food from your diet. Please ensure that you are replacing the eliminated foods with other foods to ensure adequate nutrition. There is more information about how to do an elimination diet on WebMD. You can also request allergy testing from your pediatrician. The results of the testing and patient history will determine their recommendations about avoidance, elimination, and reintroduction of the suspect foods. Unfortunately, allergy tests can also be wrong the other way, and this can be life threatening. Sometimes, the test results are negative, but the the person has a reaction. If your child breaks out in hives or has an itchy mouth or throat (babies will grab at their faces) after eating, call your Dr. immediately, this could be a serious reaction and may require immediate medical attention. If in doubt call 911. If at any point your child has difficulty breathing, is gasping for air, coughing uncontrollably or you notice swelling of the face or neck, CALL 911.
Please note: The information in this post is not meant to be a substitute for the advice and recommendation of your physician. It is intended for informational purposes only.
In adults and older children, food allergy is usually diagnosed by a combination of skin testing and food challenge. In younger children and babies, often the symptoms are different and the testing unreliable. Instead of the typical facial swelling, for example, a child is more likely to develop eczema, vomiting, diarrhea, fussiness, difficulty sleeping, or failure to grow properly. All of these symptoms, however, can also be indicators of other illness, so it can be difficult to make a diagnosis. In addition, it is possible to test positive for something which you can eat without a problem, hence the food challenge. A food challenge is difficult to perform on a small child as they can not express themsleves. So where does that leave you?
Well, you have a few options. First you can do elimination testing at home. If you suspect that your child has a food allergy, try eliminating the offending food from his diet. Have no idea what the offending food is? Start with the top allergens and be systematic. If you are breastfeeding, this means that you will also have to eliminate the offending food from your diet. Please ensure that you are replacing the eliminated foods with other foods to ensure adequate nutrition. There is more information about how to do an elimination diet on WebMD. You can also request allergy testing from your pediatrician. The results of the testing and patient history will determine their recommendations about avoidance, elimination, and reintroduction of the suspect foods. Unfortunately, allergy tests can also be wrong the other way, and this can be life threatening. Sometimes, the test results are negative, but the the person has a reaction. If your child breaks out in hives or has an itchy mouth or throat (babies will grab at their faces) after eating, call your Dr. immediately, this could be a serious reaction and may require immediate medical attention. If in doubt call 911. If at any point your child has difficulty breathing, is gasping for air, coughing uncontrollably or you notice swelling of the face or neck, CALL 911.
Please note: The information in this post is not meant to be a substitute for the advice and recommendation of your physician. It is intended for informational purposes only.
Saturday, November 07, 2009
More on food allergies
After watching this video, my mother contacted the Media Specialist at FAI USA and requested some information to share with her coworkers and others. She received an immediate reply, and the DVD's are on their way. We are so excited! Education is essential, because in this case ignorance is not bliss, it is life threatening. And these videos present the information in a manner that is easy to comprehend as well as personal. Although I believe that it is important for our children to learn how to live and take care of themselves in a world that is full of danger, which for some children includes certain foods, I also believe that it is important for us to do everything we can to keep all children safe. I'm just beginning this journey in the world of food allergies, and although it is likely that my son will outgrown some, if not all, of his allergies, there are still precautions that I must take, and might have to take for years to come. The thought of day care or school truly strikes terror in my heart, but I've realized that educating others is my best weapon. Once I dispel the myths and emphasize the seriousness, my baby is safe and everyone is operating from a place of knowledge instead of a place of fear. I'll take knowledge over fear any day.
Here's a little food allergies story for you. Don't worry, no anaphylactic shock or death in this one, just a little comic relief. My son goes to a nursery class twice a week for about 2 hours. He's only been going for two weeks, and I send a bright orange paper with him that I take out and show all of the adults at the beginning of every class. I'm in the building, and the adults rotate, so I keep the epi-pen with me and take one of their pagers just in case. The paper that I show everyone looks like this:
Of course, his name is substituted for FIRST NAME, and a picture of his smiling face is beneath. The teachers and volunteers really appreciate the paper, and the other parents have also started to take note and inform the staff when their children have any of the major allergens for snack (in this age group, that includes peanuts, eggs, and milk, all of which my son is allergic to). This, in addition to his demeanor and other notable characteristics, have caused him to become quite well known. When we went this Wednesday, which was his fourth time, there was a lot of buzz as we walked into the room. "Here he is!" exclaimed one lady. "This is him," remarked a few people. "That's the boy with all the allergies, poor baby," said another. And then woman who was meeting us for the first time looked up to see the poor baby with all the food allergies. "But he's BIG!" she exclaimed. I looked in her eyes and saw the surprise there; she was expecting a frail child, which my child definitely is not. Then she looked at me, took a breath to regain her composer, and said "good job" while nodding her head and smiling. I said thank you and had a little chuckle as I thought about what a surprise it must have been for her to expect a frail child and get a robust one year old. "Poor baby" is far from an accurate description!
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
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