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Holiday Parties & Food Allergies: Know the Signs, Act Fast

Informational

CATEGORY

12/16/2025

POSTED

Holiday Parties & Food Allergies: Know the Signs, Act Fast

Holiday parties mean food everywhere. For people with food allergies — or parents of kids with allergies — it can be stressful.

Where Allergens Hide

The usual suspects: Nuts in desserts. Shellfish in appetizers. Dairy in casseroles. Eggs in baked goods.

Cross-contact is sneaky. A spoon that touched shrimp dip then touched the veggie tray? That’s enough to trigger a reaction.

Reaction or Emergency?

MILD (monitor closely):

→ Itchy mouth, hives, nausea

SEVERE (LIFE-THREATENING):

→ Trouble breathing, throat closing

→ Swollen lips, tongue, or throat

→ Severe vomiting, dizziness, loss of consciousness

What to Do Right Now

EpiPen? USE IT. Don’t hesitate. Inject into outer thigh, call 911, lie down with legs elevated.

No EpiPen + severe symptoms? Call 911 immediately.

Mild but unsure? Come to Night Watch for evaluation.

Stay Safe

✓ Always have EpiPen and antihistamine

✓ Ask about ingredients

✓ Avoid shared serving utensils

✓ Tell someone about your allergy

Night Watch sees the whole family — we’re here if something goes wrong.