Topic Overview

How can I avoid an allergic reaction?

• Understand your allergy and know that you need to protect yourself. Read food labels or ask kitchen staff at restaurants if there are peanuts or peanut oils hidden in any of the foods you order. For example, some cooks thicken chili with peanut butter.
• Some people are so severely allergic to peanuts that being near them or breathing air that contains peanut residue can cause an allergic reaction.
• Let others know that you or your child has a peanut allergy. Make sure that all caregivers (such as school administrators, teachers, babysitters, and coaches), friends, and coworkers:
  • Know what the symptoms of an allergic reaction look like.
  • Know where the epinephrine shot is kept and how to give the shot.
  • Have a plan to transport you or your child to the hospital.
• Wear a medical alert bracelet or medallion that lists your peanut allergy. This will alert emergency response workers if you have a severe allergic reaction. Medical alert jewelry can be ordered through most pharmacies or on the Internet.
• Keep your epinephrine shot with you at all times. Make sure older children know how to give you or themselves the shot. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure how to give yourself the shot.
• Keep other medicines such as antihistamines with you for mild reactions if your doctor recommends it. Antihistamines are not a substitute for epinephrine in a severe allergic reaction.

• Get help. Do not minimize the seriousness of the problem.
• After you give yourself an epinephrine shot, call your doctor immediately or seek other emergency services. You will need to be observed for several hours to make sure the reaction does not recur.