Urgent Allergy Advice – Mustard Ingredients Contaminated with Peanuts

A critical recall has been issued for certain mustard products due to peanut contamination, posing a severe risk to individuals with peanut allergies. For detailed information on the affected products, please refer to the official recall notice.

Understanding Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis

An allergic reaction occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance as a threat, leading to the release of histamine and other chemicals. While many allergic reactions are mild, anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening response that requires immediate attention. The Anaphylaxis can cause shock because the large quantity of histamine that is released in the body makes;

  • Blood vessels dilate and this causes a fall in blood pressure
  • Blood capillary walls become leaky causing a fall in blood volume
  • The strength of the hearts contractions weaker causing a fall in blood pressure

Common Triggers for Allergic Reactions:

  • Foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, wheat and dairy
  • Insect stings (e.g., bees, wasps)
  • Medications like penicillin
  • Latex

Recognizing Anaphylaxis:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • A hoarse voice or loud pitched, noisy breathing, tight chest, wheezing
  • Rapid or weak pulse
  • Pale cold clammy skin
  • Skin reactions such as hives or flushing
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness or fainting

Providing First Aid for Anaphylaxis:

  1. Call Emergency Services: Dial 999 immediately.
  2. Administer Adrenaline: Use an adrenaline auto-injector if available, injecting it into the outer thigh.
  3. Position the Person Safely: Keep them lying flat unless breathing is difficult, then allow them to sit up. If the casualty feels faint or light headed then do not sit or stand them up but lay them down and raise their legs
  4. Monitor Vital Signs: Check breathing and pulse; should they stop breathing provide CPR and Defibrillation.
  5. Repeat Adrenaline if Necessary: If symptoms persist after 5 minutes, administer a second dose.
  6. Stay with the Person: Offer reassurance until medical help arrives.

Preventing Allergic Reactions:

  • Always check food labels and inquire about ingredients when dining out.
  • Carry an two adrenaline auto-injectors if prescribed and ensure they are up to date.
  • Educate family and friends about your allergies and how to help in an emergency.

Understanding and preparing for allergic reactions can significantly reduce the risk of severe outcomes. Stay informed and ensure you have the necessary tools and knowledge to act swiftly.

 

 

2024-09-25T13:33:31+01:00
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