Wednesday 16 January 2013

Holidaying with Allergies.....

When it comes to Holidays away with the family, How do you deal with your (or your child's) allergies or anaphylaxis? 
Do you plan your holiday around food safety?  For example only book self contained accommodation where you can prepare the food yourself, Go to a tried & tested resort etc

A page I like recently asked the question, Would you ever go on a cruise? (having anaphylaxis)
Following this post there was a very fierce debate about how "safe" a holiday like this would be, in regards to the fact if anything was to happen that you are miles out to sea with usually only a medical team & phone direction to treat your anaphylaxis until Medical care could either be reached or you could be taken off the boat.

It got me thinking....
with multiple allergies & a few close calls this year I don't think this type of holiday is for me!

In the last 4years we have only had two incidents when eating out. Although we have multiple allergies in our family with 1 in 3 Aussies now having some form of allergy I have found most restaurants & eateries to be more than accommodating & so they should be. Lets face it its not great for business to have your diners carted away via ambulance fighting for their lives!

While prevention is ALWAYS better than treatment when it comes to anaphylaxis, I don't believe we should live in fear. Here are a few tips for Happy Holidays with Food Induced Anaphylaxis:
  • RESEARCH well, where you plan to go & stay, What are their allergy policies?
  • ASK lots of questions, about how the food for allergy sufferers is prepared.
  • BE polite, when you are anxious or concerned its easy to become demanding. You will find people are always more willing to be of assistance if you remember your manners!
  • TELL EVERYONE make sure everyone knows about your/your child's allergy & how severe it is.
  • ALWAYS carry your Epi-Pen with you & make sure you are confident in how to use it!
  • WEAR an allergy alert bracelet or T-Shirt to make sure your allergy is always on peoples minds.
  • ENJOY holidays create memories for life! 

So go create some awesome memories for you & your family!

Allerchic

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