FP essentials
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Food allergies are immune-mediated allergic adverse reactions that occur after exposure to specific foods. The most commonly recognized food allergies are immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated reactions (eg, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis) that result from exposure to milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, wheat, or soy. However, other foods can cause food allergies. ⋯ These allergies are best managed by avoidance of the food or foods related to the allergy because they require ingestion rather than contact to precipitate symptoms. Injectable epinephrine should be prescribed for patients at risk of anaphylaxis. Careful food label reading and food preparation, awareness, and education are keys to prevention.
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Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction that occurs rapidly after exposure and is life-threatening. After symptoms of anaphylaxis occur, there is no way to reliably predict whether the patient's condition could progress quickly and become life-threatening. Immediate injection of intramuscular epinephrine is the first-line emergency treatment for anaphylaxis. ⋯ The most commonly prescribed form of epinephrine is the costly brand name autoinjector, but less expensive alternatives exist, including generic autoinjectors and prefilled epinephrine syringes. Epinephrine prescriptions should be combined with action plans that guide parents and caregivers on appropriate use. Access to epinephrine at schools, even for students who do not have a prescription, is an important component of preparedness for anaphylaxis.