Food Allergy Awareness
Approximately 12 million Americans suffer from food allergies. Children are the largest group affected by this potentially life threatening medical condition. In 1997, the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) created Food Allergy Awareness Week to educate others about food allergies. This year the 14th annual Food Allergy Awareness Week (FAAW) will take place May 8-14, 2011.
Top 8 Foods Responsible for Allergic Reaction*
- Peanuts Milk
- Tree Nuts
- Eggs
- Wheat
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Soy
*Other less common foods can also cause allergic reactions
Common Warning Signs & Symptoms of Anaphylactic Reaction
- Complaint of a tingling, itchiness or metallic taste in the mouth
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling and/or itching of the mouth and throat area
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Cramps and stomach pain
- Paleness (due to a drop in blood pressure)
- Loss of consciousness
If you see someone with any of these symptoms, ACT FAST! Call 911 and mention anaphylaxis. Tell the operator you need someone who can administer epinephrine.
Source: The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network http://www.foodallergy.org
Tube Feeding and Allergies
It’s important to be aware of the composition of enteral formulas for patients with suspected or documented food allergies. Many infants and children require special formulas. Shield HealthCare carries a full line of hypoallergenic formulas including Neocate, EleCare, Similac Expert Care Alimentum and Nutramigen with Enflora LGG. Between 1 and 4 percent of the adult population is thought to have a true food allergy. Shield HealthCare carries adult products that do not contain egg, whey or soy. Please contact your local Shield HealthCare office for a complete listing.
Don’t Forget About Oral Hygiene
Tube-fed patients are at increased risk for dry mouth, dental caries, infection and inflammation. Keeping the mouth moist and clean helps prevent these problems. Keep teeth and dentures clean and free of plaque by flossing, and brushing with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste at least once daily. Wipe the inside of the mouth with a clean, damp washcloth. Avoid alcohol-containing mouthwashes, as these can be drying. Apply lip balm as needed to prevent chapping.
The Shield Enteral Nutrition Support Program (ENSP) Advantage:
• Pump setup within 4 hours of discharge in most cases
• Expert RDs in all areas we serve
• Direct dietitian-physician communication
• Wellness checks and quarterly nutrition screenings
• Clinical and nutrition in-services for your staff
• Fewer hospital visits for your patients
June is Men’s Health Month!
The goal of this event is to raise awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease. Get screened early for prostate cancer, heart disease, diabetes, depression and other conditions.
Source: http://www.menshealthmonth.org
