Allergy diagnosis - HELP please

Our 1 yr. old granddaughter has just been diagnosed with some allergies to - soy, wheat, and egg. If anyone has experience with these, please give us some advice or links to sites with info. I figured I could turn to my DG family for help in this matter. Coming here first for me makes so much sense, cuz I figured it could shorten the research time for my DS and DDIL. THANK YOU for your help.
Appreciatively, Jan

I think Carrie's daughter has some food allergies like that....she may be able to help.
Good luck!!

This message was edited Dec 2, 2008 9:13 AM

Thanks, Celeste. Anything is helpful at this point. Until the diagnosis, every once in a while you could tell something bothered her, cuz she would dig at her face, and scratch herself. Her birthday was last Wed. and of course she had a cupcake. On Thursday when we went over she had scratches all over her forehead. Poor kid, but we are glad we found out pretty early, so we can all take precautions. This will affect m y cooking too, since we see them so often. They live around the corner.

Awe, lucky you they live so close! My oldest DD lives close too, about 2 miles away maybe.

Jan - The Gluten Free Pantry is a good source for people with food allergies. Their website is glutenfree.com and they also have foods that are soy free, egg free, dairy free and corn free besides gluten and wheat free. For each item the ingredients are listed and the specific items that are not included that can cause allergic reactions. Good luck. Eleanor

Thanks, Eleanor. I appreciate it.

Jan

BTW, Eleanor, how's Colin doing?

Thanks for asking about Colin, Jan. He is doing well and working hard on his speech. Everyone has noticed a big improvement. Eleanor

here is a site with some good info

http://www.foodallergy.org/allergens/index.html

Thanks, Allison. I'm rooting for you with the decoration contest.

thank you... I can say Randy has worked hard this week trying to get everything connected

it's not easy with food allergies at first.... takes a lot of retraining ... but after that it's a piece of cake.... cake without wheat

:)

I took a day where the supermarket was quiet... and went and read all the food labels of what I eat... soooo many things had the yeast i was allergic too... things you wouldn't think of... who would have thought that a can of soup would have yeast in it.... well they do... soy sauce and spaghetti o's ... lot of other things I can't remember right now

I would start getting sick... eat soup thinking it would make me feel better... and it made things worse... who knew

so now I just make my own... better for me anyway

I found these gluten free bars at costco... envirokids... they are puffed rice and very good... just takes some looking around to find some pre made products .... and will most likely have to cook more due to the wheat allergy... but not the end of the world... just a matter of adjusting

http://www.worldpantry.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ProductDisplay?prmenbr=179660&prrfnbr=192448

Bob's Red Mill has lots of gluten free mixes and also unusual grains like teff and quinoa and millet that I think are quite tasty. Ocean States Job Lots carries their products and they also some small amounts in grocery stores and through the mail.

Years ago we turned cooking fresh food into something of a religion. I always worked 3-11:30, and raised three kids while growing some food, baking bread, grinding whole spices, and making yogurt and buttermilk. It's not only doable, but the food is so much better that it's hard to eat out unless the restaurant is extraordinary. We evolved into a couple that loves working side by side in the kitchen. Our motto has always been, "If it moves slowly...we'll eat it". With this in mind, I keep having this discussion with DH and friends...

Do you remember years ago when you or your parents used to be able to have a dinner party and didn't have "advanced directives" from the guests? What happened? Between the cholesterol, ova/lacto, vegan, free range, organic, raw micro/macro options we have people who are seriously "poisoned" by eating certain foods. Since many of the highly allergenic processed foods are cross processed (that is nuts, soy, wheat, etc.) in the same factories, maybe we are being sensitized earlier on? It's curious to me. Though many, if not most, of my clients are a part of my prepared menu catering business (because of special dietary needs or preferences) I find this is a big shift from years ago when clients wanted straight out creative, greatl food. Food allergies and sensitivities are real. We need to look at why there is this explosion in food intolerance. My'08 rant.
Laurel

Thanks for your input, ladies. Much appreciated.

Another DGD is alllergic to peanuts and cats and the one in OR. is lactose sensitive. Wow! Our family get-togethers are going to be interesting. I have a lot to learn. My goal is to grow more veggies next year.

Have a good evening.
Jan

Jan, I come from a very alergic family, asthma, food alergies, respiratory problems, all the works. My own daughter, actually the oldest was so sick as an infant, we could not find the problem with her. She had ear infections every other week or so. Finally came to the conclusion she was lactose intolerant, it took us forever to find out, but thoughtout her first few months of life, although, se was under all of these special formulas that costs us an arm and a leg, well, after so many testings, came to the conclusion where the problems came from. She has outgrown all issues now, although, she still takes lactose free milk. Wish you good luck, but sometimes, kids are even alergic to certain veggies, i could tell you stories with my nephew!!! Good luck!

So, for the purpose of clarification, we can have a sensitivity to certain foods that cause allergic-type reactions, but cannot develop an allergic reaction to a food, and then get over it. An allergic food reaction is when your body develops a permanent intolerance to one or more of the components of a food. Lactose intolerance is usually not such a big deal on it's own, but if you are also allergic to the other components of milk, such as casien and whey, it becomes more complicated. If you have a child who has an "allergic-type" reaction to foods in early life and then gets over it, it is not really an allergy (which could be life threatening), but rather a food sensitivity. I know they are close, but not the same. I'll be glad to answer any questions, as a maternal child R.N., that I feel qualified to handle and refer the rest.
Laurel

I just read the above post and I see what you are saying, my daughter and nephew and mother and more siblings for that matter had more issues than that, not only lactose intolerance. We are an extremely alergic family and have too many issues to lists and it has been life threatening to us too. An MD is best to diagnose the problems.

Jan Good luck with your family and I hurt just like you to have those issues, specially young children at risk! Love to you sweetie!

Thanks for the good wishes.
Can't sleep, so I'm on my favorite site.

Laurel... my yeast allergy lowers my immune system... so other than making me tired / run down it can be life threatening if the situation is right... even though the effects don't seem obvious like closing my throat up or stop me from breathing.. the long term can be fatal.... just need the right virus or something in that line... that my body won't be able to fight off

I would think there are other food allergies that would effect other bodily functions as well

An allergy is a biomedical event that has a specific course. The body perceives the food, dander, pollen, etc as a foreign object and releases histamines. It then builds antibodies, which are basically memory cards that react in the future, if there is a similar exposure.

Whether yeasts can cause allergies is much debated and, as a result, probably not a topic for this site. My opinion is withheld.
Laurel

Almonds!!! Who would have thought?

Just today:

At first I thought the gift from a staffing company was just bridge mix. I took one and was chewing when a friend said; "Oh, it's an almond!" I should have spit it out. I knew better but didn't want to waste perfectly good food. What harm can one tiny almond really do to me?

I called DH to pick me up immediately. I left work early; almost ended up at a Doctor's office or worse. Pain in my throat and ears, histamine level up and climbing. I let my co-workers know what was happening, just in case 911 was needed. Typically, I avoid almonds, so I forgot how bad this could get. Hours later, and I still have an occassional throat spasm. I guess the staffing company found a great way to eliminate the current employees so more of their employees could be placed...LOL.

I'm feeling great now, even without the Benedril.

Whew. These allergies are real (and painful).

Wow, glad your OK.!!
On a lighter note, i'm sure you know this but.... you should never mess with nuts. lol

I too am glad to hear you are okay Aunt_A. Close call. Please take this adv ice... always take the antihistamines prescribed and report to your doctor if you have an allergic reaction. This is to avoid building a greater allergic response to the next exposure. It is important to treat each exposure. Remember, it's the next one that may become the medical emergency if you do not. You should let your physician know of this incident and be advised for the future.
Laurel

pixie62560 and MaypopLaurel,

Thank you both very much for your concern and advice. I appreciate it. I did NOT know about building a greater allergic response to the next exposure. Very interesting.

I think we can all use this as a message to treat each exposure.

April



Jan23,

Sorry to lead the discussion away a bit; it is scary what a small exposure can do. Thanks for letting me share here. ^_^

April

I'd like to add my own little bit. So many people are dealing with their kids allergies these days. I have a long list of food allergies. And please, please take what Laurel said to heart. Do not ignore an episode of exposure. I am almost 60 and when I was a child no one paid any attention to allergies. The general response was 'you'll outgrow it', 'oh, do you get a rash?'. I was sick a lot and my parents just didn't know any better. I never realized the danger until I was an adult and went to the emergency room with a particulary bad attack (and didn't even know what it was from). The resident on duty had severe allergies and explained it to me and told me I might not live thru it next time.

My allergies have definitely worsened over time. Every once in a while a new thing pops up. I have been tested and read labels religiously, but there are often bits of things that get into foods during processing at the factory that are not on the ingredients list. That is why you often see something like 'processed on equipment that processes nuts and peanuts' or something like that. I am NOT allergic to chocolate, but have reacted to chocolate because there was a trace of nut in it somewhere.

I carry an EpiPen and Benedril. I have only had to inject myself once because I am very careful. I don't eat desserts that I don't make (or someone I know well) because the nut allergy is my worst. I read labels. I'm careful about ordering in restaurants (no sauces or anything unknown...plain baked potato, broiled meat, etc.) I am also asthmatic and am allergic to some insects and other interesting things.

Just telling this to reinforce Laurel's point. I have spent many hours in the emergency room, but it's much preferable to the alternative.

well Laurel I guess your opinion is not really being withheld.... I am not trying to start an argument with you... but please don't tell me a part of my life is a debate.... in your opinion ... there is no debate when I have seen and felt proof of it's effects... the closed minded thinking and concern with profit...in the medical field today is one biggest problems in this country... and the "experimental" allergy shots that I take... and that work... and will not be paid for by our health care system... should be a crime

it amazes me we can't just have a civil conversation at times on here... someone always finds a way to put someone down or try to make themselves seem smarter... I was only speaking of MY life experiences... and sharing what I have been though... I am not a dr. or nurse... but I know what my body has been though... and what makes it feel better for the time being... and if I can help someone else though a struggle with what I have learned... and that offends you... then don't read my posts or respond please... now you know why I usually sit on the sidelines in most of the conversations and just read what's up with everyone... life is too short to have to defend my life... it's a shame really... there are some really nice people on Dave's

Jan I am sorry this problem arose when you were just seeking help... I am going to stop reading this thread and step away... if you want to ask me anything feel free to Dmail me...and here is my "experimental" doctor's website... he has a few books written... and might have some free info for you to look though on the site

http://www.majidali.com/

Oh, April, so glad you are doing okay.
I was over at little Maggie's tonight getting my lovins from her and her brothers. They are just too cute. She has an app't with a pediatric allergist tomorrow. They have been making a list of questions.
I appreciate everyone's concerns for her and for sharing their own experiences.
Time for bed. Hopefully, I'll sleep better tonight.
Jan

Thanks Jan,

Very sweet of you. Blessings on you and your little ones, too.

^_^

April

HI
Go to search engine and type in gluten free mama. Young mother with child who has lots of allergies (wheat covered very well)

There are lots of young mothers blogging about their journey/discovery regarding their children with multiple type food allergies. They offer recipes and tips and shopping etc., geared to young tastes. One of the mothers has a child with wheat, soy, dairy AND RICE allergies...wow... that is hard!

You can find lots of info at the celiac disease site with links to the food manufacturers who list the foods and what they manufacture that may contain common allergy producing products. Not fun to be allergic --but this is a really good time since FDA and manufactures have raised awareness. Good Luck. PS - if you write to the companies (on line is fine) they will answer and often send coupons.

missingrosie,
Thanks for the info about companies and coupons. I hadn't thought of that. Also for the search to gfmama.
Have a good day!
Jan

You are welcome. I have found that 99% of the companies are very responsible and write back to me about their products/ send coupons etc.

I have found that it is just easier for me to understand and shop the 'brand.' Get to know the ones that go the extra mile to clearly state if something is gluten free or not or has soy or nuts etc. Also specialty stores and special foods can be so expensive!!! It is better for me to know that Kraft will say gluten free or will say it contains gluten...than having to wonder if I have missed something on the ingredients list.... and it is much less expensive than a special 'gluten free' dressing found in Whole Foods or similar stores.

Again, thank you for your responses.
They had good news today when they went to the pediatric allergist, who did scratch test. Very reactive to egg and peanut. The others - soy and wheat - had been false positives before. Her reaction to the placebo - water- was the same size as the others, but she had definite reactions to the egg and peanut. She also has contact dermititis, so she blotches easily. DDIL was kinda relieved that wheat was NOT an issue.
I will pass on the info to DS and DDIL.
Jan

Whoopee ! Life just got much easier!!

I couldn't agree more. We already deal with the peanut allergy with another granddaughter.
How's the weather been in NC? It has been pretty cold for this area, but today was up in the 60's.

Jan,

Great news! Thanks for letting us know.

April

That's terrific news, Jan, about her not being allergic to wheat! You can live without wheat but it's harder. Egg and peanut are hard to avoid, especially egg, but not impossible.

I just got back from shopping at "the mall" spent a LONG time reading ingredient labels. See's candy is very conscientious; Lindt less so. (But See's has a lot of nuts.)

Thanks, April. How're you feeling today? any more almonds? That was scary.

Thanks, Carrie. Yikes! I haven't been to a mall for a long time. I hate to shop. The one I usually use ( it's been definitely over a year) is frequented on weekend nights, by hordes of teens. You really have to time a visit. The hordes really aren't very polite. It's a shame. It got so bad they imposed an age limit unless accompanied by an adult.
I just use what is in the closet. Don't they say that everything comes around again? I still have a few things from college. I graduated in '73. LOL

We have been frigid.....except for yesterday and today..close to 70. Tonight I think it goes down to 50 and we are due for this wierd windy storm. It's almost balmy out there now (I went to the hospital in a down coat!!) it was freezing all this week..who knew it was warm outside...??? I looked like a polar bear going into the hospital. I was warm during the night and dressing this morning...but I thought I was having hot flashes. . how the heck did I know it wasn't estrogen patch failure!! I never know if I am coming or going lately. Anyway, it is rainy. Tomorrow going to be awful with wind and rain. Then comes the cold and sunny skies.

Is it contact dermatitis or is it eczema? If eczema - then you have to keep your eye out (and ears) for asthma. Not uncommon in an allergic kiddo with eczema.

I'm feeling great; did take some meds yesterday.

No; no more almonds!

Too bad...I've heard that almonds are cancer fighters.

I wrote an article about Cashews and poison ivy. Quite a number of people wrote in about their experiences. You'd think after writing that article and knowing my problem w/ almonds, I wouldn't touch them.

My new belief: WASTE the almond!

Thanks for asking. I hope your sweetheart kiddos do fine!

April