The public is welcome to comment on the “Guidelines of the Diagnosis and Management of Food Allergy”, as developed by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. These guidelines have been established to give information to healthcare providers about diagnosis and treatment of food allergies.
The bad news is that it is a 119 page document. The good news is that you have until May 6, 2010 to comment.
Who better to give that input than us?
Honestly, it is an interesting read. In the section "Management of Food-Induced Anaphylaxis", it is clearly stated that an epinephrine auto-injector should be the first-line treatment. The use of antihistamines was often given as a reason for not using epinephrine. All studies indicate that this puts the patient at significant risk of a life-threatening reaction. The guidelines also acknowledge that school aged children who do not have immediate access to epinephrine, are at an increased risk for a life-threatening event.
Take that to your uncooperative school administrator.
So, grab a cup of coffee and a few quiet moments, and take a look at the guidelines. Then, register, and offer your comments. I must admit, it feels good to be asked for an opinion about how healthcare providers handle food allergy.
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