To demand an EpiPen

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DD age 15 developed a food allergy during the summer to tartrazine (yellow food colouring).

Her first reaction was the most severe and very scary. 15 mins after food containing it she began to develop a rash and intensely itch all over, before her symptoms began to spiral incredibly quickly ( in the space of 5 mins she had nausea, horrific tummy pain, diarrhoea, dizziness to the point she couldn’t walk, then finally turned very clammy + grey and fainted)

The bit that really concerned me was the greyness + fainting, as this is a sign of blood pressure drop + therefore anaphylaxis. Due to this I would really like an EpiPen for her, as it is very possible this could’ve turned into full blown anaphylactic shock.

Some utter twaddle on this thread. Get second opinion from a proper doctor.

Didn't read the entire thread but I have been where you are - only for myself! They claim they needed to be sure it was anaphylaxis before prescribing a pen.

It took 3 A&E trips (1 where an ambulance had to come to my house!) To finally have an epi-pen prescribed. They only last a year so you have the joy of continuously pushing as they insist allergy appointments each time you need a new one. The nearest allergy clinic is in Central London, costing me a small fortune each time I attend too (you have to take all your allergens with you, all separated to minimise cross contamination) and yes, the waiting list is ridiculous.

I think there needs to be a middle ground around prescribing them (as they can be dangerous if not required). Speak to your GP again or if you can afford a private referral, it'll speed things up considerably if you can go via thay route.

I now get seen once a year in the allergy clinic and had an appointment about a month ago. My follow up appointment to give me the results of my most recent allergy test (and guidance) is in January!! So I really do get the frustration you feel.

Absolutely! Thanks Sparkling. I meant to add that bit but a small child started shrieking!

@SD1978

It also concerns me that people seem to think they've had 'mild' anaphylaxis or potential anaphylaxis. If you don't require adrenaline, it's not anaphylaxis. You can't spontaneously recover for anaphylaxis, no other treatment works. If you've required less than adrenaline, it's a severe reaction. Anaphylaxis, not treated, is always fatal. The misunderstanding that a several allegedly is the same thing, and the increase in parents requesting them- has led to tighter controls because at times there are shortages and those who genuinely need them, fine difficulty getting them.

This is also not correct. What are you basing these statements on? There is a range in the severity of anaphylaxis. However, the first line treatment remains the same: adrenaline.

www.worldallergy.org/education-and-programs/education/allergic-disease-resource-center/professionals/anaphylaxis-synopsis

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20519878/

Adrenaline injectors are actually very safe, @H3LPm3.

www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Adrenaline-Factsheet-January-2018.pdf

Can you see a different GP? By definition, more than 1 organ system involved = anaphylaxis. So skin+ gut + vascular in her case.

so you have the joy of continuously pushing as they insist allergy appointments each time you need a new one.
When dd1 and I need a new one, I just put in a repeat prescription.

Again thank you Sparkling for being a voice of good sense on this thread. I am getting increasingly frustrated seeing people say things that are not only completely incorrect but could have fatal consequences if anyone reads them and follows the advice.

I have the same reaction to tartrazine.
You say in your post that the FIRST time was the worst. Has she had subsequent episodes that were not as serious?
Mine is an intolerance that produces a rapid reaction and my body goes into full expulsion mode. The pain in my gut as it goes into full evacuation mode will cause me to pass out and I go clammy and grey.
Tartrazine is easy to avoid to be honest. No orange/red processed food.
It is a well known cause of intolerance and as such is not as commonly used as it used to be.
While you are waiting for a referral to confirm allergy that requires epi pen educating your daughter about dietary content is essential. If it isn’t an allergy but an intolerance then you will be one step ahead.

@HazeyJaneII

so you have the joy of continuously pushing as they insist allergy appointments each time you need a new one. When dd1 and I need a new one, I just put in a repeat prescription.

Same with us, not sure why anyone would have to get new appointment unless there is some sort of change in reaction or maybe new allergy