Hello, new anaphylaxis diagnosis (cashews) - some early questions?

[Pawsnclaws]

Hello - ds3 (aged nearly 3) has just had a very scary 24 hours in hospital after putting a cashew nut in his mouth and spitting it out. Cue hugely swollen face and neck, blistered lips, all-over rash, lethargy and a dash to A and E.

They were fabulous and diagnosed anaphylaxis - gave him some adrenaline, piriton and Prednisolone, kept him in overnight. His blood pressure quickly got better (though his face is very swollen and red still) and we've been given two epipens, and two day doses of the piriton and Prednisolone. He's being referred to a dietician and an allergy clinic.

Now obviously back home and on very little sleep I've scared myself witless googling ......

Just two really quick questions - we've been told to avoid all nuts for now, but what about other possible triggers I've read about like bites and stings? Is he more likely to have a problem with these? Secondly, my initial (panic) reaction is to worry about his two brothers too - should I get them tested (presumably privately)?

Any advice appreciated - thanks.

My DS infant school asked for 2 - we were prescribed just 1 as it is apparently the new guidelines.

The Junior school he starts in Sept has asked for 1 - they are getting 2!! Despite DS being well and maybe us being able to ditch them in the future in the meantime I am not risking it.

Can I just take a moment to add I don't know how you ladies do it. I know I have witnessed a severe reaction before with DS but now I've recovered from it I have the benefit of knowing there isn't any immediate risk in food and I don't have to exclude anything. Although it technically happen again I know the chances are extremely rare - I can't imagine facing this day in and day out. What I'm saying is I felt like this for about 8 months but cannot imagine a lifetime of it.

Just to a word of caution although some people seem to be ok with groundnut oil often used by fish and chip shops my DD (cashew nut allergy) reacts to it so it's not universally safe.

Just came back from Pizza Hut where staff were great so no probs.

youarekidding - I think I'd feel much less safe if I only had one epipen though we haven't had to use one yet (dare I speak too soon!)

babybarrister- yes I am sure it is a cost cutting measure.

I agree shouldbe which is why they're getting 2!! One for office and I want them to keep 1 in classroom. I'm still in the just-in-case mode.

me too, just too scary.

Really, please don't panic, this can be handled, speaking from experience ! I know it is scary but you will be amazed at how your child will get an instinct (I'm over 40, still here!) and I've had to watch my DS12 for signs (seems to be fine, advised no nuts till he was 10).

As a preteen /teenager/adult I quickly realized what foods to avoid and apart from the dreaded home baking scenarios, you kind of get the feel where nuts could be used so generally would avoid that type of food.

I've got 5!! and my DS doesn't have an identified allergen just a history of reactions. There really is IMO no point in risking what 'could' happen against the likelihood of it happening. AND I shall insist I keep 5 until DS is clear and no longer needs them. Despite my exitement in how things are moving forward I would be devastated if something did happen and I couldn't treat it. (need 2 when only 1 or 1 fails and not having a 2nd).