Allergies Basics
A food that can cause an allergic reaction
What is an allergen?
Peanuts, milk, eggs, tree nuts, etc.
Name one common food allergen
A test where the doctor checks your skin for reactions
What is a skin test?
Deep breathing, a fidget, watching a show or listening to music
Name one way to stay calm during a test
A doctor who helps people with allergies
An allergist
Looking at ingredients to make sure food is safe
What does it mean to “check labels”?
A test that tests a sample of your blood usually from the vein in your arm
False. Some people prefer to watch and some prefer to look away.
True or False: You have to look away during a test.
When the body's immune system reacts to something it thinks is harmful
What is an allergic reaction?
When an allergen accidentally touches safe food
What is cross-contact?
An oral food challenge is when you eat the food you may be allergic to under the supervision of a doctor or medical team to see if or how your body reacts.
What is an oral food challenge?
Even though a skin test isn't a true needle, it can be uncomfortable for some people.
Does a skin test hurt?
A serious allergic reaction that needs emergency medicine
What is anaphylaxis?
Avoidance, OIT, Xolair.
What types of treatments exist for allergies?
Some medicines are given via shots like Xolair or Dupixent.
What is an injection in food allergy treatment?
Buzzy Bee, Shot blocker, Numbing cream
What is epinephrine?
Y-shaped antibodies are part of the immune system and involved when there is an allergic reaction.
What are Y-shaped antibodies?