How To Help a Friend Who Has Food Allergies
1️⃣ GET THE DETAILS
Dig for as many details about foods that your friend is allergic to. Learn about the symptoms of a reaction and how to manage them. The more familiar you are with what can happen, the easier it will be for you to identify triggers and take action.
2️⃣ BE SERIOUS
Food allergies can be life-threatening. If you see your friend about to eat something you suspect will trigger an allergic reaction, speak up. This is extremely important when your friend may be distracted or not paying attention, like when consuming alcohol.
3️⃣ GET HELP IMMEDIATELY DURING A REACTION
If your friend starts to show symptoms such as trouble breathing, faintness, or throat tightness, take action and get help. These can be signs of anaphylaxis, a severe reaction that can lead to death if not treated.
4️⃣ KNOW HOW TO USE AN EPINEPHRINE AUTO-INJECTOR
Does your friend #alwayscarrytwo epinephrine auto-injectors in case of a reaction? Where do they keep it? Find out how and when to use it so it’s not too late.
5️⃣ AVOID SHARING FOOD
Cross-contact can be a serious problem. It's a good idea to keep your food and utensils to yourself so you don't accidentally expose your friend to an allergen.
We know it's not easy. If you're not sure when to speak up or how to be helpful, ask your friend what they prefer. Share this blog with your non-allergic friends so that more non-allergic people know how to help food-allergic people!
