Someone talk some sense into me re: food allergies

[currentlybrunette]

DS is 15 months and has a cows milk protein allergy and seemingly an egg allergy. He has eczema and is on the list to be seen by an allergy specialist.

I’ve been reading about allergies and the idea that severe reactions don’t usually happen after the first exposure to an allergen and my anxiety has turned up several notches. I’m now absolutely paranoid when his eczema flares after eating. I’m worried about delayed anaphylaxis for hours. I watch his mouth and tongue after every meal paranoid he’ll have an allergic reaction and die.

I have form for this. DD died a few years ago at 2 from bronchiolitis caused by RSV. I never imagined this little boy would come into our lives and consume every waking thought. I’m in EMDR therapy for trauma around DD’s death but now I’m hypervigilant and the anxiety is causing such horrible chest pains and sweating that I’m worried I’ll actually become unwell.

So people who are knowledgeable about this kind of thing, can you talk me down from the ledge about food allergies? Give me anything to make me less terrified or will I always be this way now?

The allergy specialist will give you an EpiPen if there's any concern, my son is allergic to loads of things and got an epi pen but we have never had to use it. I think the system is quite well tuned to get the best clinical outcomes, but of course the worry never quite leaves you.
The treatment seems to be carry epipens and antihistamine, and avoid the trigger foods. Luckily milk and egg are common allergens so you don't need to read the ingredients list too carefully.
Take care, it's very frustrating but food allergies are super common and shouldn't stop you doing most of what you would normally do.
You might be able to find support groups on Facebook or even in person if you're worried about what the future might hold, to get a bit of perspective? Or talk to your GP to see if there's any help for you.

I think with your very understandable trauma related to your DD (so sorry for your loss) that you can ask for an appointment with your GP to talk everything through in detail. Your response is completely understandable, but can be reduced with time and support. Also find a charity with a helpline to support you too.

I’m terrified he’ll have a severe reaction to an ingredient he’s known to be safe with or an unknown ingredient. I honestly feel like I’m going insane. He had dinner at 5pm - no reaction - and my chest is so tight and I’m so panicked even though he’s toddling around playing.

I’m so sorry for your loss of your DD, I think the trauma you’re experiencing is perfectly understandable

I think if you speak to Allergy UK they will be able to answer your questions about further exposure.