Getting confirmation of a food allergy is an important step towards finding long-term relief. After food allergy testing identifies your specific triggers, you’ll face new considerations in your daily routine, from grocery shopping to dining out. And while a food allergy diagnosis can feel overwhelming, your Atlanta allergist will be there to guide you with expert advice and a personalized treatment plan. So, what exactly can you expect moving forward?
Essential Next Steps Following a Food Allergy Diagnosis
A food allergy diagnosis is a significant moment on your journey to better health and improved quality of life. Here’s what you need to know to successfully manage your food allergy and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
1. Get a Clear Understanding of the Food Allergy Diagnosis
After a diagnosis, it’s important to understand exactly how the food allergy will impact daily life. You can start by learning about food allergies and how the immune system responds to allergens. Understanding this process, you can then focus on your specific allergy – for example, identifying whether you are allergic to multiple tree nuts, whether your child might outgrow their milk allergy and so on.
2. Learn to Stay Safe in an Allergy Emergency
Food allergies are a potential cause of anaphylaxis that could put your life at risk. You should carry an epinephrine auto-injector to stay safe at home, work, school and in other environments. Anaphylaxis causes symptoms like severe breathing difficulties and loss of consciousness. An immediate response is crucial during a reaction of this kind.
3. Follow Strategies for Avoiding Allergens
After a diagnosis, your allergist may recommend avoiding specific foods to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Avoidance measures often include reading food labels to ensure a particular allergen is not present, and staying cautious in restaurants and other locations where food is prepared.
4. Advise Friends and Family
While many people are familiar with food allergies and their symptoms, many others will be unaware that a person is experiencing a reaction. Educating friends and family about your allergy is necessary in situations where they are cooking for you, and in case of emergency. It’s just good practice to be proactive – for example, if your child has a food allergy, make sure to provide the school with an emergency plan.
5. Follow a Food Allergy Treatment Plan
A precise diagnosis makes it possible to develop a personalized food allergy treatment. For some patients, oral immunotherapy treatment might be recommended as it can desensitize the immune system to the specific allergen and help prevent severe reactions. Your allergist may also recommend periodic food allergy testing visits to identify if you still respond to allergen exposure.
Expert Food Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment Services in Atlanta
For dependable food allergy testing and treatment services, visit one of our Atlanta area locations. Our team can diagnose your allergy and identify the best long-term management approach to keep you or your child healthy. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
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