How I Manage My Allergic Reactions to Food

I started dealing with food allergies back in 2011 when I was also diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease.  The onset of suddenly not being able to eat what I wanted when I wanted was a huge lifestyle change to get used to. Prior to being diagnosed in 2011, I never had any issue with food. No allergies. No intolerances. Nothing. Zip.

My biggest trigger food

Over the years however, I have had my fair share of allergic reactions to food. My biggest trigger food is wheat. I have to stay away from wheat products and that is something that I must always be vigilant about. In addition to wheat, dairy and corn are also trigger foods.

I figure I would share with the community how I deal with my food allergies and the reaction they give my body. It’s always helpful to talk about coping mechanisms and ways to get through a reaction in order to help others and maybe inspire a new way to feeling better. I’ll share how I manage my worst food allergic reaction which is with wheat.

How I manage my food allergy symptoms

My symptoms onset pretty quickly after eating a wheat product. For me, the amount of wheat ingested will also determine the severity of the reaction. Symptoms include the following: Initially it starts with itching of the throat, coughing, sweats, and chills. Then shortly after abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting set in. When I have a bad reaction, the latter part that affects the intestines can last for days.

When I start to feel the itchiness at the back of my throat, I just tell myself to remain calm. I definitely get a little bit anxious because I know I’ve had wheat and what is to come won’t be pleasant. I cough when needed to help rid the itchy throat and I make sure I am near a restroom and place where I can rest. If I am home, that is perfect but if I happen to be out, I make sure to get home as quick as I can.

To deal with the abdominal pain, I reach for a heating pad or hot water bottle. Heating pads are great but electric heat doesn’t give the same soothing effect as hot water. So when I am able, I warm up water and put it in a water bottle to place over my abdomen, or I have someone do it for me. I then lie on my left side to help get through the pain.

When the urgency hits I make sure that my bathroom is comfortable. A squatty potty is always helpful and I use peppermint essential oil topically to help lessen the diarrhea and ease the cramping. Peppermint essential oil has been a great tool for me to help with symptoms. If vomiting ensues, I am sure to keep myself hydrated. I have an electrolyte powder that I like to drink called Ultima Replenisher. Also, I reach for electrolyte bottled water.

Overall, I make sure I am lying down and resting as the symptoms can be quite intense. Sometimes napping is a good way to try and escape the abdominal symptoms. I continue to take it easy, until I am able to slowly eat again and function.

How about you? Any tips you’d like to share concerning managing food allergic reactions? Share below, we love to hear from you.