Food allergies are nothing to sneeze at

The kids are off to camp or over at the neighbors. They’re out bike riding or splashing at the beach with their friends. Unfortunately they may be spending a little more time indoors because of the thundershowers. Whatever the case, their snacking isn’t as well supervised as usual. Time to have a serious talk about food allergies.

We’re not talking about food intolerances. We’ll do that next week. What we’re talking about is an immune system reaction that happens soon after eating certain foods. Even a small amount of the culprit will cause digestive problems, hives or other rash, runny nose, itchy eyes, swollen airways, wheezing and in severe cases anaphylaxis.

You remember that anaphylaxis can be life threatening, don’t you?

According to the Food and Drug Administration between six to eight percent of children will suffer from allergies that they may or may not outgrow. The most common triggering proteins are milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat, tree nuts (cashews, walnuts, pecans) and peanuts.

What happens is that their bodies think the protein is harmful and their system triggers cells to release antibodies known as immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to neutralize the allergen. Then when they eat the same food again, even a very small amount of it, the IgE knows it and sends the signal for their bodies to release histamines and other chemicals into the bloodstream causing a reaction.

The best way to prevent an episode is obviously to avoid the triggering food, but that’s often easier said than done. What has to happen is that everyone who is responsible for feeding your child knows what he or she can and cannot eat or drink.

One would like to think that it’s easier today with the laws about food labeling. And that’s probably true for packaged fare. The other side of that coin, however, is that ingredients can be hidden, particularly when eating at a campout, potluck or restaurant.

What to do? Notify key people that your child has a food allergy. Talk to all the adults who regularly interact with your child about how to recognize signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction. Emphasize that an allergic reaction can be life threatening and requires immediate action.

Make sure that your child also knows what they can and what they can’t eat, and especially to ask for help right away if he or she reacts to food.

Have your child wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace. This alert lists your child’s allergy symptoms and explains how others can provide first aid in an emergency.

Your healthcare practitioner may prescribe antihistamines for hives and a runny nose, or a bronchodilator if the child has an asthma attack, or in some cases may suggest that you carry epinephrine (Epipen) in the event of anaphylaxis.

Be sure that your child, and anyone who cares for your child knows that if epinephrine is administered that a trip to the emergency room is necessary for the child to receive additional treatment. Medical personnel will observe the child for at least four hours to watch for signs of a second wave of symptoms (called a biphasic reaction), which occurs in many cases.

Food allergies are nothing to sneeze at, so make sure your child, friends and family are well informed.