Thursday, November 6, 2008

Autism and Food Allergies

I haven't updated John's medical situation in a while. We had several blood tests done back in August to check for food allergies which might have been causing some of John's symptoms. Just as we suspected, we found several food allergies which were difficult to determine by trial and error. We were so grateful for the news.

John's allergies consisted of brown rice, navy beans, milk (all dairy), eggs and almonds.

With an autism diagnosis, I wonder why doctors don't immediately check for food allergies. We also started John on amino acid therapy treatment. He is only able to have one of the other chelating amino acids because the others are too excitatory. Meaning, if he takes certain amino acids they make him really hyper.

So, we are moving forward. He is starting to eat oats again. We are REALLY excited about that!

Halloween candy was a BIG mistake. Of course, we gave John the freedom to choose to eat candy, only ones without allergens. All his symptoms started coming back this weekend. Flapping hands, eye twitching, flicking fingers, outbursts...oh, don't let me forget - the infamous "BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMM!!!!!!!" as loud as his voice can carry. I think we heard that maybe 50+ times this weekend.

Then, at stake conference, I had to bring John into a separate classroom to meltdown. He kept trying to touch the lady's hair in front of us. A wild 20 minute tantrum... complete with shoe-throwing, sock tossing, head banging hysteria. Ella and I watched in hopes it would end. I gave Ella a high 5 and a hug for being so patient through that one. With bruised shins from John's kicking, I left the classroom with everyone in the foyer staring at the "abusive mom". I'm used to that look.

John had one more bad day on Monday at school and got a yellow card. Now, the reaction is wearing off and he's calming down finally.

Back to the grind! No more candy. Oh, did I mention he threw up all over his bed in the middle of the night on Saturday? Yes, definitely no more candy. NO MORE.

We continue to see the Naturopathic Physician for all our needs. It's a fantastic thing to have support with all of this. She even calls throughout the week to check up on John. Thanks also to everyone for all your love and support!




8 comments:

Jess said...

I'm sorry! That's crazy how much candy affects him! I'm glad that you are learning about his allergies. I have never thought of you as "the abusive mom" I always thought, "Look at how patient she is!"

Mindy said...

oh man, I hoped that the candy would have been fine for him for the holiday. atleast he was able to enjoy it while it lasted. :) too bad it effects him so much. I guess Ella has to be the "big" sister once in a while. You are both so patient.

Becky said...

okay...first off you are an amazing mom - seriously. i give you a lot of credit for being his advocate. it's time consuming and exhausting - really. secondly, i'm amazed at what a difference the candy made. good for you for figuring it out. btw...i'll be picking up some p cream soon. thanks for you help. :)

Anonymous said...

Is there any kind of treat that is "special" and that he doesn't get all the time that I could keep on hand? I'm glad that you caught this so we all know not to give him things that he reacts to in sucn a way. Way to go for you patience and love in this trying situation!

Allison Barry said...

It is amazing the affect food has on his little body. I truly admire your patience, Anya. I don't know if I could do it. Johnny is so blessed to have you.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry Anya. I can't believe candy would do so much to him, but I am relieved to know you found out about his allergies. You are such a great mom and a strong patient woman.

Jo Jo said...

Ditto on the amazing Mom comment - hate judgmental people and their looks

Tanner Fam said...

Only the strongest women are given the hardest challenges. Consider it an honor. :)