Monday, March 1, 2010

Allergy Test Results



I received good news today from my daughter's allergist. Her test results came back with lower numbers. Now when I say lower, I mean way lower. To most of you this may not seem like a big deal, but for someone who has had to watch what their child ingests for the sake of their life, it's a big deal. I thanked her allergist over and over again. I'm sure she could see the smile on my face by the tone of my voice.

First, we talked about her cashew results. This one was the highest number the last time she was tested. The results showed that it went down from a 28 to a 6. She wanted the number to be a 5 or lower, but this was good news for me. See, I had to deal with her having a reaction to cashew butter and it wasn't easy. She fell asleep (her blood level dropped) and then threw up later. I was happy to hear that it was a 6 even though a 5 would have been better.

Next we talked about her peanut number. Originally, it was a 12 and dropped down to a 6 also. This is good news because peanuts seem to be in everything or cross-contaminated with everything. This shows that within the last 3 years, her numbers dropped in half. Just think what another 3 years could bring.

The last thing we discussed was regarding her having a food challenge. I can't say that I am all that keen on this idea. I would love for her numbers to be a lot lower. I still fear that something could go wrong even though she would take this test in a hospital.

When my daughter got out of school I told her the allergist called and gave me good news. I explained to her that her numbers were lower this time which means she is getting better. I told her she still isn't allowed to have the foods that are listed on her allergy bracelet, but one day she may be able to. With a smile on her face, she looked at me and said, "One day I may be able to take this bracelet off and not have to wear it?" I told her maybe. She jumped up and down with joy.

Even though her numbers are lower, I will still take the same precaution as before. The epipens and the benadryl will continue to go with us everywhere. The avoidance of bakeries, certain restaurants, and potlucks will still stand firm. But the thought that maybe, just maybe one day all of this will be in the past, is all I need for hope.
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4 comments:

  1. That sounds like a lot of work and worry! Your a great mom! I have a shellfish allergy so I carry an epi-pen too! But, mainly it's just a bummer. I hear shellfish is yummy-LOL.

    Bridgette Groschen

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  2. Yes it can be a lot of work and worry, but it has to be done! Sorry to hear about your shellfish allergy ~ maybe you'll grow out of it too! :)

    Dona

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  3. Thank God the numbers are low. I am your latest follower!!! You can also follow me at www.safehomehappymom.com

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  4. Wow, that is great news! I will be following your progress and hoping for the best. We have actually gone the other way over the years. I enjoyed reading your story, here is mine http://blog.kramernet.org/treenutallergy/

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