Always have an allergy action plan.

If your child was just diagnosed with a severe allergy, you’re likely scared and a bit confused. The good news is that you’re not alone and there are tons of resources available to help you.

Take the Allergy Action Plan. It’s a basic tool for managing your kid’s allergy, yet the most important, outside of epinephrine and Benadryl. That’s because it outlines all of the necessary steps for caring for your child in the event of a severe allergic reaction.

The Allergy Action Plan tells you when to give an antihistamine (e.g., Benadryl) and when to give epinephrine (e.g., EpiPen®, Auvi-Q®, etc.), as well as how much of each. It also tells of symptoms to be aware of and provides emergency contact information for you, as well as your child’s physician.

Having it by your side at all times can make a huge difference, particularly in an emergency when you’re unable to think clearly. It’s also important to give to any family members, friends or others who may be caring for your allergic child.

Your pediatrician or allergist should have provided you a completed Allergy Action Plan at your child’s appointment. However, if not, or you need additional copies, you can download a complimentary form from AllerMates. Just be sure to check with your doctor on the specific doses for your child, and then stash the completed plan in your allergy medicine bag so that it’s with your children wherever they are.

All the best,

Iris

P.S. Want more help managing your child’s severe allergy? Sign up for my newsletter, and I’ll be glad to help.