Our First Food Allergy Anaphylactic Reaction

I am a Food Allergy Mom

When Noah was around 10 months old, our lives changed forever (cue dramatic music). I had already given him peanut butter, and it went off without a hitch. Imagine my surprise when he had what I now know to be an anaphylactic allergic reaction to cashew/walnut butter. 

First there was some gagging. I thought - he must not like the flavor. Then came the hives on his hands and around his face. Next was some more gagging, which turned into lots of coughing. Convinced the coughing and gagging was just because he hated the flavor, I decided to call the doctor to report the hives. 

Then we got lucky. Really lucky. By the time the doctor returned my call, the coughing had stopped and the hives were going away. I later learned that all of the commotion was much more. The gagging and coughing was actually due to his airways constricting and the hives on his hands were just from coming in contact with his allergen. The hives on his face were from a systemic response to the nuts. It was Noah’s first anaphylactic reaction, which somehow went away on its own.

In sharing our story with other food allergy families, I’ve learned that other’s first anaphylactic response can be much worse. I’ve heard stories of ambulance rides and hospital stays. Since Noah’s first reaction, we’ve had two emergency visits to urgent care, each about a year apart. With certainty, I can say that food allergies are affecting more and more families and it is so important that we share our resources within this community.

For the last 3+ years, I’ve made it my mission to become an expert as a food allergy momma. I’ve even gone as far as becoming a certified health coach to learn all about food, nutrition, health and well-being. Knowledge is power and as a food allergy momma, you need all the power you can get! 

If you’re just starting or even in the thick of it (especially if you’re in the thick of it!), let me guide you through your food allergy and wellness journey. I’ve been there, done that and have the know-how. Doing it alone can be, well, nuts!