Newly diagnosed

Newly Diagnosed Introduction Being diagnosed with a potentially severe allergy is scary. But don’t worry, you’re not alone – help and support is available. Talk to your allergist or immunologist for expert personalised treatment and care. They’ll recommend regular follow-ups so you can receive up to date information on allergy and the risk of anaphylaxis.

Never self-diagnose or rely on anecdotal information.

Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia (A&AA) is a not for profit registered charity and Australia’s only national support organisation, dedicated to helping individuals and carers alike in managing allergy and anaphylaxis.

Managing allergies when you are newly diagnosed can be daunting. A&AA’s health educators can help you with management strategies for dealing with your allergic condition. While our health educators don’t give medical advice, they can help with managing the everyday. You can call 1300 728 000 or Contact us with any questions you may have.

The information in this website is designed as a guide to help individuals, parents and carers of those living with allergic conditions. You may find ideas or strategies here that work for you, but before making major changes to your lifestyle, we encourage you to talk with your treating doctor.

Where to start? - some information to start you on your way

Food Allergy Basics - full of reliable and practical advice for managing food allergy for you or a family member or friend

Resources - evidence based information, resources and services to support you

Content updated June 2020

Where to start?

Diagnosis

Never self-diagnose or rely on anecdotal information for an allergy diagnosis whether it is to food, an insect sting, tick bite, a drug or other substance (such as latex). A person who is suspected of having an allergy should obtain a referral to see an allergy specialist.

Life Stages

Managing severe allergies poses different challenges when you are a baby, a child, a teenager or an adult. As children grow up and rely less on mum and dad, there are some simple steps parents can take to prepare their child for living with allergies.

Living with the risk

You can lead a close to normal life, even if you are at risk of a life-threatening allergic reaction. While many people feel alone, overwhelmed or even angry when they are first diagnosed, remember that help and support is available.

Signs & Symptoms

Allergic reactions can be mild to moderate or severe (anaphylaxis). Some allergic reactions will only be mild to moderate. Some mild to moderate allergic reactions will progress to severe (anaphylaxis). Some individuals will experience anaphylaxis with no mild to moderate symptoms beforehand.

Treatments for severe allergy

Currently, there is no cure for food allergy. Avoidance of the food is the only way to prevent an allergic reaction. Those at risk of anaphylaxis must always read food labels and disclose their food allergy clearly when eating out.

First aid

ADRENALINE IS LIFE SAVING medication for someone experiencing a severe allergic reaction/anaphylaxis. Antihistamines DO NOT stop the progression of an anaphylaxis. Learn to use an adrenaline injector.

Food Allergy Basics

Food Allergy

Dr Norman Swan presents some basic information about food allergy in Australia today.

Managing Kids' Food Allergies

Managing Kids’ Food Allergies for dummies There is currently no cure for food allergy. Treatment focuses on management and increasing community awareness of this potentially life-threatening condition and always being prepared in case of an accidental allergic reaction.

You may wish to download our Managing Kids’ Food Allergies for dummies. Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia worked with Professor Mimi Tang and Professor Katie Allen, when they were both at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne to bring you an easy to read informative e-book.