It is characterized by the child's immune system overreacting to certain foods. Food allergies can lead to serious reactions that may affect children's physical health, growth, and overall quality of life. Therefore, identifying, managing, and treating food allergies is of critical importance for parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
Common Causes of Food Allergies
The foods that cause food allergies in children are usually limited in number. The most common allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, wheat, and soy. Each child may have different reactions, and while some children may outgrow their allergies over time, for others, the allergy may persist lifelong.
Symptoms of Food Allergies
Food allergies can cause symptoms ranging from very mild to life-threatening. The most common symptoms include skin redness and itching, swelling around the lips, face, or eyes, abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea. Additionally, severe reactions such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, and anaphylaxis may occur.
Diagnosis and Management
The diagnosis of food allergies is typically made through a detailed medical history, a food diary, skin prick testing, blood tests, and sometimes food challenge tests. Once diagnosed, avoiding allergens forms the foundation of allergy management. Parents and caregivers should be cautious about children's diets and avoid foods containing potential allergens. Education plays a crucial role in managing food allergies in children. Parents, caregivers, and children should be informed about recognizing allergy symptoms, what to do in an emergency, and how to correctly use an epinephrine auto-injector (if prescribed).
Treatment Methods for Food Allergies
It is possible to control food allergies and prevent reactions with the correct treatment methods. The first step is to identify the food causing the allergy. At this point, a skin test is performed. The skin prick test involves applying a small amount of allergen to the skin and observing the resulting reaction. The test is widely preferred for its quick and effective results.
Once the allergen is identified, the most important thing to do is to completely eliminate the allergenic food from the child's diet. However, this process requires careful planning because some allergens may be hidden in processed foods. Developing the habit of reading labels and teaching this awareness to children is important.
Monitoring and Diet Planning in Children with Allergies
Special dietary programs should be designed for children with food allergies. The child's growth and development should not be adversely affected due to missing nutrients. For example, rich alternatives in calcium and vitamin D should be preferred for milk allergies. It is recommended to seek support from a nutritionist at this point. Creating a balanced diet plan compatible with the child's immune system and away from allergens will support the general health status.
When allergy symptoms are observed in children, the frequency and severity of these symptoms should be recorded. Keeping diaries plays a role in the doctor making an accurate diagnosis and guiding the treatment process.
Anaphylaxis and Emergency Plan
Allergic reactions in children can be severe. This condition, called anaphylaxis, is a rapidly developing situation that requires emergency intervention. Medications may be prescribed by the doctor for anaphylactic situations. Parents and teachers should be informed about how to use these medications. At the same time, the child should always have an allergy card or bracelet with them.
In communal living spaces like schools, it is important to inform teachers, school nurses, and other staff about the child's condition. These individuals should be able to respond quickly to a potential reaction and ensure the child's safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are food allergies in children recognized?
Food allergies can manifest with symptoms such as skin redness, itching, vomiting, abdominal pain, and shortness of breath. If these symptoms recur after consuming a certain food, an allergy is suspected.
When are skin tests for allergies performed in children?
The test for food allergies is recommended from one month old, and for conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis after the ages of 2-3; however, it can be applied at any age depending on the child's condition.
Do food allergies in children resolve over time?
Food allergies in children can often partially or completely resolve over time. Cow's milk, egg, soy, and wheat allergies tend to improve especially by the age of 2-3; rarely extending up to 5 years of age. However, nut, fish, and shellfish allergies may never disappear.
What should be done during an allergic reaction in children?
The allergen the child came into contact with or consumed should be immediately stopped. If the symptoms indicate a severe allergic reaction, emergency numbers should be called.