Since 1998, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers have been advised that if there is a history of allergy in the family – including eczema, asthma and hayfever – they should avoid peanuts. Weaning information has also changed, with “at risk” families being advised to delay the introduction of peanuts.
I doubt the advice would have helped Thomas. I was avoiding feeding him peanuts anyway. I did, however, regularly eat peanut butter while pregnant and breastfeeding.
Doctors cannot predict what will happen if Thomas ever eats nuts in the future. Skin tests showed a positive allergy to all nuts and a second attack is usually worse.
It is now two and a half years since he suffered anaphylactic shock, but the memory of that teatime never fades. I know that only strict vigilance will protect him.
- The Anaphylaxis Campaign can be reached on 01252 542029 or
visit their website
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