Food Allergies
Food Allergies
A food allergy occurs when a child's body has a negative immunological response to a certain food. To protect the body, the immune system fights viruses and other foreign elements as threats. In the case of food allergy, a child's immune system target a particular food as a "risk" to his or her health. The cause behind this is unknown. During this allergic reaction, Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies are produced by a child's immune system. Histamine and other chemicals are released as a result of the antibodies' reaction to the food. While most food allergies are non-life threatening, children with high allergic reactions can call for emergency medical help.
Food intolerance is different from food allergies. Food intolerance can cause symptoms such as passing gas, burping, indigestion, bloating, loose stools, headaches, palpitations, or a feeling of being "drowned." Food intolerance, however, is unrelated to the immune system. It can happen if an individual is unable to digest a substance, such as lactose. Food intolerance is unpleasant but not life-threatening. Many children "grow out" of their allergies. But some food allergies can persist for a lifetime.
Symptoms in Children/ Babies
Within a few minutes or an hour after consuming the food, allergic signs can appear. Symptoms may vary from child to child. An allergy can sometimes trigger a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis. Some of the symptoms of anaphylaxis may first seem mild reactions, but they can quickly worsen. The kid may have difficulty breathing or pass out. There can be the involvement of one or multiple body parts. Anaphylaxis poses a serious risk to health if it is not treated with injectable epinephrine.
Causes
Milk, Eggs, Wheat, Soy, Tree nuts, Peanuts, Fish, and Shellfish, are the most common causes of food allergies in children. In fact, a tiny bit of allergic food can trigger a severe reaction in highly allergic children. Some babies may experience late, non-life-threatening allergies to milk, soy, or other allergens.
When Must You Visit A Doctor?
Food allergies can't be treated with medication. Based on a physical examination and a full examination of the child's medical history, the healthcare professional will make the diagnosis. A list of the foods consumed before the start of the allergy symptoms is generally included in this history. The goal of treatment is to stay away from the foods that cause the allergy.
The excellent news is that food allergies are often outgrown in childhood. So, if your child shows the common allergic symptoms listed above, parents must seek the guidance of an allergist (a doctor who specializes in allergies). The allergist will check the child's symptoms and perform a physical exam, including a skin test, blood test, and food challenge test, to identify which foods the child is allergic to.
In the case of life-threatening allergic reactions of anaphylaxis, when a kid shows symptoms like
It is a medical emergency. If you suspect your child is suffering from anaphylaxis, get immediate medical attention. Get in touch with us to set up an appointment at 02 8069 2127.
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