Food Allergies

Food allergies are becoming increasingly common among children, and for parents, understanding how to detect, manage, and treat these allergies is crucial. This guide will help parents navigate the world of food allergies, from recognizing symptoms to ensuring their child stays safe.

What Are Food Allergies?

A food allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless food protein as a threat. In response, the body produces antibodies, leading to a range of allergic reactions that can be mild or life-threatening. Even a tiny amount of the allergenic food can trigger a reaction, making it essential for parents to be vigilant.

Common Food Allergies in Children

Some foods are more likely to cause allergic reactions in children than others. The most common food allergies include:

• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews)
• Milk
• Eggs
• Wheat
• Soy
• Fish
• Shellfish

While some children outgrow certain allergies, like those to milk or eggs, others, such as peanut or tree nut allergies, can persist into adulthood.

Signs and Symptoms of a Food Allergy

The symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe, and they often appear within minutes to hours of eating the allergenic food. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Hives (itchy red spots on the skin)
• Swelling (particularly of the lips, face, or throat)
• Itchy mouth or throat
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach cramps
• Dizziness or fainting
• Anaphylaxis – a severe, life-threatening reaction that can involve difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness

Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention, as it can be fatal without prompt treatment. If your child shows signs of anaphylaxis, use an epinephrine auto-injector (if prescribed) and seek emergency care immediately.

What Is a Food Intolerance?

It’s important to distinguish between a food allergy and a food intolerance. A food intolerance involves difficulty digesting a certain food, but it does not involve the immune system. While food intolerances can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, they are generally not life-threatening.

For example, lactose intolerance (the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk) is a common food intolerance, but it doesn’t trigger an immune response like a milk allergy would.

How Is a Food Allergy Diagnosed?

If you suspect your child has a food allergy, consult a pediatrician or an allergist. Diagnosing a food allergy typically involves:

1. Medical history – Your doctor will ask about symptoms, when they occur, and whether there’s a family history of allergies.
2. Elimination diet – You may be asked to temporarily remove the suspected allergen from your child’s diet to see if symptoms improve.
3. Skin prick test – A small amount of the suspected allergen is applied to the skin, which is then pricked to allow the allergen to enter. If an allergic reaction (like a small bump) occurs, it suggests a sensitivity to that food.
4. Blood test – A blood test can measure levels of IgE antibodies, which the body produces in response to allergens.
5. Oral food challenge – This involves eating increasing amounts of the suspected food under medical supervision to see if it causes a reaction. This test is usually done in a medical setting due to the risk of a serious allergic reaction.

How Are Food Allergies Treated?

There’s currently no cure for food allergies, so the primary treatment involves avoiding allergenic food. Here are common strategies for managing food allergies:

• Avoidance – Ensure that your child avoids foods that contain the allergen, and always check food labels for hidden ingredients. For example, milk or eggs can be found in baked goods, and peanuts might be present in sauces.
• Epinephrine auto-injector – If your child is at risk for anaphylaxis, their doctor may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen). This should be carried at all times and used in case of a severe allergic reaction.
• Emergency action plan – Work with your child’s healthcare provider to develop a plan in case of an allergic reaction. This should include knowing when and how to use an epinephrine injector, and when to seek emergency care.
• Education – Teach your child about their food allergies as they grow, so they understand what foods to avoid and how to recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

How Can Parents Keep Their Kids Safe?

Managing food allergies can feel overwhelming, but there are steps parents can take to help keep their children safe:

1. Ensure that teachers, babysitters, family members, and friends are aware of your child’s allergies and know how to prevent exposure and respond to a reaction. Provide them with an epinephrine injector and instructions on how to use it.

2. Food manufacturers are required to list common allergens on labels, but it’s essential to be vigilant. Look for any warnings about cross-contamination (such as “may contain peanuts”) and avoid foods that could pose a risk.

3. When eating at restaurants, inform the staff of your child’s allergy and ask about how food is prepared to avoid cross-contact with allergens. Some restaurants offer allergen-free menus or can accommodate special requests.

4. As your child gets older, teach them how to read labels, ask questions about food preparation, and recognize early signs of an allergic reaction. Empowering them with this knowledge can help keep them safe, especially when they’re not under your supervision.

5. Whether your child is attending a school event, playdate, or birthday party, provide safe snacks they can enjoy. This prevents accidental exposure to allergens in shared foods.

While there’s no cure for food allergies, research is ongoing. Some children may outgrow certain allergies, and new treatments, like oral immunotherapy, are being developed to help manage allergies. Regular check-ins with your child’s allergist can keep you informed about the latest options.