Little Flutterbugs

Earlier this week, I took Ariana in to be seen by an allergist. A skin test was performed on her by pricking her back with a panel of allergen samples. Results indicate that she has severe milk and peanut allergies. She is also allergic to cats and dogs. **sigh** 

After spending three hours at the allergist office with a cranky Ariana and bored out of her mind Gabby; I walked out in disbelief with the overwheling feeling of what do I feed my child? 

Oh, let me mention that the nurse gave me a crash course on how to use an EpiPen! I arrived home and began reading all our food labels. I also started doing research online for milk and peanut allergies. I’ve been writing questions down for the dietitian. I meet with someone next week. Hopefully, he/she will have some ticks up their sleeves.

Meanwhile, I’ve become adept at reading labels and will take Ariana for her blood test on Monday. The blood test will reveal the probability of anaphylaxis episode, aka use the EpiPen quick! 

Additionally, the allergist had me step up our skin care routine a notch. For the past three nights, Ariana has been going to bed in wet pajamas. Can I tell you it has made a difference in her skin. Her eczema has cleared away nicely with out hardly any steriod cream intervention. 

So knowledge is power. We plan to follow the allergist recommendation of a complete milk and peanut avoidance. We sadly will not be eating Chick Fil La anymore; as they use peanut oil. Meal planning will be a challenge, but hopefully will get easier with time. And the EpiPen has found its way into my bag; which I need to carry at all times. I have to keep a watchful eye out on Ariana during our playdates. Out of fear that she may eat someone else’s snacks. As well as make sure Gabby doesn’t share her food with Ariana.

All in all lots of restrictions, but all in the hopes that Ariana’s skin condition will improve.