The Peanut Allergy Answer Book by Michael C. Young, M.D.

     I just received a copy of The Peanut Allergy Answer Book, third edition, by Michael C. Young, M.D. I wish I would have read this book when Jazlyn was diagnosed over 10 years ago. This would have answered so many questions.
     In Chapter 1, Jazlyn’s severe skin issues were explained is such detail. It gave me a greater understanding what caused her skin to be the way it was. It took a long time to diagnose all of Jazlyn’s more “minor” allergies. The food diary described on page 28 is what finally helped us to figure them out. Dr. Young went on to describe the various allergy tests, elimination diet, and food challenges. This information is perfect for someone that is new to allergies or someone who would like to understand them more.
     Chapter 3 helps you understand more deeply the meaning of anaphylaxis and what to look for.         
     Chapter 4 discusses the potential reaction to the airborne allergen and explains why it happens. When Jazlyn was first diagnosed, I didn’t know about airborne allergies. One day when we were at her great grandparents’ house, they were cooking eggs. Jazlyn was several rooms away and her face began to swell and she developed hives. I had no idea that she could have an allergic reaction to her allergies being airborne. The chapter also discusses the dangers of kissing and how important it is to talk to you partner. This is one of my fears for Jazlyn in the future.
     Chapter 5 discusses the hidden dangers of an allergen. This is so important because the allergen can be found where you least expect it. A few years ago, we were at a roller skating rink. Jazlyn’s friends were ordering from the snack bar. Jazlyn wanted to order something, so she ordered a cup of water. After a few sips, she broke out in severe hives all over her body. We were lucky because Benadryl was enough to stop the reaction. The ice must have been contaminated by the worker’s gloves touching the pizza and other foods then touching the ice. I never would have thought she would have that bad of a reaction to water.
     Chapter 6 is full of helpful information about staying safe in school. I’m so thankful that we home school, so this is one less worry for us.
     Even though this is The PEANUT Allergy Answer Book, it is a valuable resource for anyone, no matter what food allergies you suffer from.