A couple weeks ago, Isa had blood drawn to check her allergies. They were checking for a dairy allergy, egg allergy, soy allergy and peanut allergy. We went to the allergist today anticipating a skin allergy test. However, when he saw her blood work results, he said there was no need for a skin test. Little Miss Isa still has her dairy allergy and has developed an egg allergy.
Bummer.
He described her dairy allergy as moderate and her egg allergy as slight, but was totally confident she would grow out of them. He also said you can have one of three things happen when you expose your child to something they are allergic to: no reaction, skin reaction or vomiting, anaphylaxis, etc. You decide if it's worth the risk.
We were surprised by the egg allergy. And, I'm going to be honest: he did say to avoid eggs last time we saw him, however, I still gave her eggs in stuff just not straight up eggs. She has never had a sign of a reaction.
I know there are theories out there about allergy development. I've read them all, I've heard them all. We didn't start Is on solids until she was nearly 7 months. That's right: I solely nursed her until she was 7 months old. I know someone whose pediatrician said it was fine to give their kids anything and everything after the age of 1. Other pediatricians have the "this but not that" mentality; eggs now, peanut butter later, whole milk now, shellfish later.
Maybe I nursed too long and didn't expose her to food soon enough. Maybe I exposed her to some foods too early. Maybe it's hereditary seeing as I have a certain sister with food allergies...well, we can't totally blame her. Or can we? :)
Whatever the case, it friggin' sucks. No beating around the bush. We haven't changed our eating too much. I've heard people strip their houses completely of whatever their kids are allergic to, but I've also heard the opposite. Personally, I lean toward having the foods around and in the house. I mean, that's the real world, right? And Lincoln has totally been way interested in Isa's allergy. I want him to be aware and understand What she can and can't eat. Kirk and I may not always be there, but maybe Lincoln will be there to ask questions if we can't be.
It's overwhelming. It sucks. We go back for a recheck skin test in August.
Until then, we will keep trucking along. And if anyone has good ideas for egg substitutes, I'd love to hear them!
As for the bruise in the below picture (makes her look like a super hero, right?) don't ask. All I will say is Homegirl is still climbing.
