Visit to the Allergist

About a month ago we had a scare when Jared took 2 bites of a PB & J sandwich. His lip got swollen and his cheeks got red and blotchy. I gave him benadryl and monitored him to make sure he could breathe and swallow. The swelling and redness cleared up in about an hour or two and he was OK. I assumed a peanut allergy could be added to Jared's list of health issues. Jared's pediatrician referred us to a pediatric allergist that also specializes in pediatric asthma. We went yesterday and Jared had to be tested for both food and environmental allergies. He tested positive for peanut, dog and cat allergies. The testing was a nightmare since Jared's aversion to anything to do with needles is severe. He freaked out so bad with the 2nd, upper arm, testing that a 2nd nurse had to be called in. Needless to say, both myself and Jared were very happy when it was all over (2.5 hours later). This Dr. is the first to have diagnosed Jared with asthma. Both of Jared's peds in both NJ & MA have never said that Jared had asthma - even when I specifically asked. This Dr. said, "If it walk like a duck . . . " so it was nice to have someone admit to his asthma. As a result of his asthma, we need to carry epi-pens with us at all times. Food allergies and asthma just don't mix. Jared was also put back on a daily med for his asthma. It was a scarey but reassuring Dr. visit. I now feel safe having the epi pens in case we ever need to administer them.