LeaveItOut

How Can I Minimise My Sesame Allergy Symptoms?

It’s important that whatever the severity of your allergy, you avoid all forms of sesame seeds. Even if past reactions were mild, allergy is unpredictable and there’s a possibility you could have an anaphylactic reaction next time. Talk to your GP about your needs and any concerns you may have.

Top Tips For Staying Safe

1. Always check the ingredients label on all food products. Even if it’s something you’ve had before, be aware that recipes change and something that was safe for you to eat might not be now.
2. Avoid eating foods that could be cross contaminated. Food sold loose in bakeries and delicatessens are a particular risk.
3. Educate yourself. Learning what you need to steer clear of to avoid sesame is half the battle won. Ask your GP to refer you to an allergy specialist.
4. Always ask what’s in a dish or drink when you’re eating out. Speak to the chef, rather than a waiter. If in doubt, don’t eat it.
5. Don’t get complacent when eating out and assume that dishes are safe to eat. Recipes and chefs come and go, so ask every time and remember the cross contamination risk. When you find somewhere you can trust, visit regularly so they get used to catering for your dietary needs.
6. Talk to a registered dietitian – they are a hugely valuable resource.
7. If you suffer from anaphylaxis join The Anaphylaxis Campaign. The latest information, research, food industry news and support will be at your fingertips.
8. Make sure that you, and those with you, know exactly what to do if you have a reaction. Keep your emergency medication with you at all times. If you have been prescribed either an EpiPen or Anapen ensure you and your friends and family know how to use it correctly.
9. Know when to take your antihistamines and how much you should have. Carry an action plan with your medication.
10. If you’re going abroad, be prepared. Self-catering accommodation is the safest way for you to enjoy your holiday, but if you’re going to eat out, take a card explaining your allergy in the local language. Find out how to contact the emergency services before the emergency happens.
11. It’s wise not to eat anything prepared by anyone but yourself when you’re flying. If you do, reduce your risk of having a reaction by telling the airline about your allergy before you fly. Make sure you’ve got your medication onboard with you, just in case. Customs now request a letter from your doctor, explaining what the medication you need to carry onboard with you is and why it’s required. Without this letter, you might be asked to hand over your emergency medication kit.

 

Mild To Moderate Symptoms

• Always carry an antihistamine. This will relieve rashes and hives (called urticaria), sneezing and watery eyes.
• Wear a wristband stating your allergy, so speedy first aid can be given. This is particularly important if you’re having trouble telling someone what is wrong with you.

Moderate To Severe Symptoms

• If you have asthma, always keep your inhaler with you. In most cases you should be prescribed an EpiPen or Anapen by your doctor. Make sure you and your companions are shown how to use it.
• If you’re not asthmatic, but your doctor has prescribed you with an EpiPen or Anapen, make sure you and your companions know how to use it.
• You should always carry two adrenaline pens with you. Make sure they are in date and kept according to the manufacturers instructions.
• Wear a wristband stating your allergy so speedy first aid can be given. This is particularly important if you’re unable to tell someone what is wrong with you, for example if you’re having an anaphylactic reaction.