ABOUT THE BLOG: SULFITE-FREE LIFE
Sulfite-Free Life was created in 2019 as a way to share my personal experience with sulfites. As I share my journey, I hope it helps others navigate their own with sulfites. In addition to a sulfite intolerance, I struggle with chronic idiopathic angioedema, PCOS, and thyroiditis. I’ve included these topics, as well, because it all relates to my health journey. Educating about sulfites is my passion but I hope to also shed light on life with chronic illness.
ABOUT THE BLOGGER
A little about me and why Sulfite-Free Life exists… After a particularly stressful overnight call in residency, my undiagnosed Angioedema flared to epic proportions. I was trying to do a procedure but my right eye and face were so swollen I couldn’t see. My attendings sent me home for the day.
2 weeks later, with nausea, a 10-pound weight loss, and extreme fatigue, I was terrified that something was really wrong. Eventually, a childhood friend and physician introduced me to a physician who specializes in angioedema. To my surprise, I was diagnosed with Idiopathic Angioedema.
We figured out that certain physical and mental stressors caused flare-ups. Figuring out what specific triggers were, was more challenging.
It would be another few years before I discovered sulfites. Since then, my journey has been a roller coaster. I have had ups and downs while trying to learn as much about sulfite reactions as possible. In the depths of my despair, doubled over in pain, throwing up all night, exhausted, too tired to just go up the stairs I had the same recurring thought. I knew I needed to share my story.
At least I know what is making me sick. Too many people don’t. Knowing that there are people out there, feeling the way I do but have no idea why makes me feel guilt and gives me a sense of urgency to share.
Over the last decade, I have been busy finishing residency, building my medical practice, and having/raising kids. My hands have been full but I finally decided I need to take the time to commit to creating this space.
1 in 100 people may react to sulfites including up to 10% of asthmatics. The scope of potential impact is enormous considering these numbers. I’m here to try and reach as many people as possible. Along the way, I hope we can create a better understanding of sulfites and their prevalence in our food chain.
CONTACT
You can find me on Instagram and my email at [email protected].