2 Your Health:Holiday Allergies

Food allergies are another concern among some people during the holiday season. The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network estimates more than 12 million Americans have some type of food allergy. The most common food triggers are milk, fish, shellfish, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat and soy.

By Carolyn Murray
Published: December 14, 2009

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For most people with a food allergy, symptoms are triggered within minutes to hours after eating the offending food. Often, only a small or trace amount of the food is needed to cause a reaction. Signs can include: an itchy or swollen tongue and throat, trouble breathing, hives, stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, decrease in blood pressure and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, contact with a food allergen can lead to death (anaphylaxis). The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases estimates about 30,000 episodes of food-associated anaphylaxis occur annually in the U.S. Up to 200 people die from the reaction.

Tips for Making “The Season Bright”
People who suspect they have an allergy should see a physician before the holidays to get tested. If an allergy is confirmed, there’s a three-pronged approach to treatment: modification of the environment (removing or avoiding potential triggers), allergy medications (over-the-counter or prescription) and allergy shots.

Here are some tips to reduce some of the common indoor allergy triggers during the holiday season:

Reducing dust levels. A dust allergy is really a reaction to dust mites, microscopic insects found throughout the home. Vacuum regularly. Lightly brush or wipe glass, plastic and metal ornaments. Avoid using fabric or cloth ornaments because they can’t be thoroughly cleaned. Keep the tree and ornaments in sealed boxes during the off-season so they don’t accumulate dust while in storage.

Plan ahead. Let your host know ahead of time the foods you can’t eat. If that’s not possible, ask if any of the foods being served contain ingredients you need to avoid. The same is true at restaurants. Many food establishments are able to accommodate dietary requests if you give them ample notice.

Offer to bring food to share at a party. If you prepare the food, you’ll know it’s free of potential allergens. Don’t be afraid to turn down foods that may not be safe for you to eat.

Be prepared for accidental exposure. No matter how careful you are, you may still unknowingly eat something that causes a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. Carry an epinephrine injection kit (a treatment for anaphylaxis, like the EpiPen®). The treatment will not completely stop the allergic reaction, but will buy some time for you to get to the hospital.