How do I get over my fear of food?

[matey]

DS is allergic to eggs. As a baby he had a dairy intolerance. He had very bad eczema and reflux. He continues to be sensitive to things. Various external things set his skin off into rash mode. He developed an issue (serum sickness) to antibiotics that last spring caused his entire body to swell and by the end of the day, he could not move his limbs. He is underweight, low percentiles for height. He has been tested for many things but appears to have no real problems. Really the only thing concrete we know about is the egg allergy.

He is 3 now. The allergist had told us to wait till he was 2 1/2-3 to try peanut butter. We once gave him a little bite on a cracker. After he ate it he pointed to his mouth and said it hurt. Maybe the cracker went down wrong, I dont know what would have hurt, but it freaked us out and we have never given it to him again. But if he had a little and was fine, does that mean he should be fine?

The only other food he's never eaten are eggs (allergy discovered due to skin reaction) and shellfish. He eats regular fish and LOVES it. Tonight I was thinking about making a pasta with shrimp. Do I give him just a little? If he has a problem with it, does amount matter? How do I get over my fears of giving him food? I feel like I will just wimp out and give him pasta with no shrimp. Do I even have a reason to be afraid? I just want to get these last couple foods over with.

Any advice, support, ideas to make me feel more comfortable about it??

[Thing1Thing2]

So sorry to hear about your sons allergies. My DS has tons of sensitivities and allergies as well.

I would say to just feed him a small amount of the shrimp. You don't have to give him so much at first.

And then keep some Benadryl on hand in case you notice a reaction.

Also, if you can start a daily log of what he eats and what reactions he has, it will help you to keep track.

[matey]

Yes we always have benadryl and an EPI pen too! We are armed!

[matey]

So, I just remembered that we had him tested for shrimp before. They said there was no problem with it as far as the skin test was concerned. So, I guess that means I should just give him the shrimp. I guess. I still feel nervous about. i'm so stupid.

[bodhitree]

Can you do oral challenges in your allergist's office for some of these foods? I've heard some people do that if they have a kiddo who is allergic to other foods.

[matey]

Originally Posted by bodhitree 

Can you do oral challenges in your allergist's office for some of these foods? I've heard some people do that if they have a kiddo who is allergic to other foods.

Our allergist is 3.5 hours away and there is a 9 month wait for food challengers. I just need to get over it and do it.

But, great news!!! We did the shrimp (with benedryl and epi pen ready) and he did fine. In fact, he really liked the shrimp.

[Thing1Thing2]

That's great to hear! Congrats on one more food you can add to your list!