Living with Your Child's Food Allergies

Living with a child with food allergies

Though the experts cannot seem to agree on why, the fact is that food allergies among children are on the rise. By some estimates they have risen as much as 50% in the last 5 years. This means that parents today are more likely than ever to encounter food allergies, either in their own children, their children’s friends and relatives, or classmates. This article aims to provide basic information to parents regardless of why they are seeking information on food allergies.

Step one: Get information.
There are many sources of information available today but when faced with something as important as health it is imperative to get information from reliable sources. An allergist is your best bet for having your child tested to confirm any suspected food allergies. To find one in your area you can speak to your pediatrician or your insurance company but your best bet is often word of mouth.

To get the most from your first visit to the allergist be prepared by being able to recount the events that led up to the visit. These can include foods eaten and specific reactions you have observed. Also determine if there are family members with food allergies as this can help your allergist in forming a comprehensive conceptualization of your case.

If your child tests positive be sure to ask questions regarding how to deal with the food allergies. Important questions can include, but are not limited to:

How to treat an allergic reaction?
Which foods and products to avoid?
How severe is the food allergy?
What is the expected course…will it worsen or can it be outgrown?
When should the child return to the allergist?

Also be aware of any other names your child’s food allergen may be known by and non-food products that you may need to avoid. For example, nut and plant ingredients often show up in household cleaning products, massage oils, shampoos and even sunscreen and toiletries.