Some people with anaphylaxis also experience a sense of overwhelming fear, which might be part of the body’s defense mechanism. If you or the person experiencing the attack suddenly panics, then the reaction could be getting worse. OTC antihistamines don’t stop anaphylaxis, so don’t try to treat the condition at home. Anaphylaxis is very scary, but you will be fine if you receive quick treatment. That’s why acting fast is so important.

Calling emergency services is better than trying to drive someone to the hospital. Medical technicians will have the right equipment on hand to stop the reaction, so they can treat and stabilize the person on the way to the hospital. Never try to drive yourself if you’re experiencing anaphylaxis. You could lose consciousness on the way.

Don’t administer oral medication to someone experiencing anaphylaxis. They could choke on it. Even if you have an epinephrine shot, you still have to call 911 or the local emergency number. The reaction could start again when the medicine wears off. Some shots might have different instructions, so always follow the directions provided. Carrying an EpiPen can be inconvenient, but you should always have it on you if you have a severe allergy because it can save your life. Make it part of your normal routine to check for it when you leave the house, just like with your wallet and keys.

If someone else is experiencing the allergy attack, help them get into this position. Don’t put a pillow or anything else under your head. This could close off your airway.

For instance, you might drink water, clear soda, or broth.

If you don’t have antihistamine cream, you can also use an ice pack or cold compress on the hives. This can numb the itching. Remember that applying cream only treats the itching; it doesn’t stop the reaction. The reaction could still get worse after you apply cream or ice. Allergic reactions are stressful, but do your best to stay calm. Anxiety can make the reaction worse. Take a minute to take some deep breaths and process what’s happening. Then start treating the reaction. [9] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source

Antihistamines are powerful medications, so don’t take more than directed. They often cause drowsiness, so plan on resting for a few hours after the reaction. If you don’t have any medication at home, see if someone can go to the store and get it for you. Driving during an allergy attack is dangerous.

If you have to wash yourself, use cool water instead. You could also use a wet washcloth instead of taking a full bath or shower.

Signs of a severe reaction include abdominal pains or vomiting, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, swelling in the mouth or throat, and heart palpitations.

If you’re with someone, you might notice the rashes or hives before they do. Let them know if hives suddenly start developing. You might not experience all of these symptoms; in fact, most people don’t experience all of them at once. Some people only get rashes or a runny nose, for instance.

Allergy skin tests are simple and non-invasive. The allergist will simply place some liquid on your skin and see if you experience any irritation or itching. The test might show that you’re allergic to all tree nuts. This is one of the most common allergy types.

If your child is going over to a friend’s house, tell their parents that your child has a severe allergy. This way, they can make sure they keep all walnuts and nut products away from them. It would help to leave an EpiPen with people who your child visits frequently so they’ll never be without it.

Labels might say something like “This food was prepared in a facility that also processes tree nuts. ” If you’re very sensitive to walnuts or tree nuts, then you should avoid these foods as well.

Even if you tell a server at a restaurant that you’re allergic to something, check the dish before you eat it. Mistakes could happen in the kitchen. This is important in ice cream shops as well. The server could use the same spoon on ice cream with nuts in it when they serve you, which could trigger a reaction. You might feel embarrassed to talk about your allergy with servers, but remember that they see things like this all the time. It’s part of their job to make sure all the patrons are safe.

Wear the bracelet in a visible place, like right on your wrist or around your neck.

Wait until your symptoms go away before you start re-introducing foods. Additionally, only re-introduce 1 food at a time so you can be sure what triggers you.

You know you’re allergic to walnuts, but you may find that you’re also sensitive to another food, such as gluten or soy. If you stop eating these trigger foods, it might help the lining of your gut heal. Your GI tract contains 70-80% of your immune system, so it’s important to keep it healthy. [22] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Leafy greens Whole grains Lean protein Fresh fruits and veggies Bone broth

Always check with your doctor before taking supplements to make sure they’re right for you. Some supplements may interfere with other medications and might worsen some medical conditions.

You can use plain Epsom salt, but you might also try salt blends.

Infrared saunas use a light to heat up your body rather than hot steam as in a traditional sauna. [27] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source