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HOW TO TELL IF YOUR CHILD HAS A FOOD ALLERGY

WHAT IS A FOOD ALLERGY?

IT’S when the immune system reacts in a certain way when exposed to specific allergens – anything that ‘triggers’ an allergic response – causing it to release histamine. This in turn causes the allergy symptoms.

So certain foods will trigger this reaction. Some allergies can be very sensitive, so reactions may occur even when the food is just handled or inhaled, although often parents will notice symptoms after their child has eaten something.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS TO LOOK OUT FOR?

SYMPTOMS vary but telltale signs include ‘a flushed face, hives, and a red and itchy rash around the mouth, tongue or eyes’, which may spread across the body, as Allergy UK outlines.

And Dr Preethi Daniel, clinical director at London Doctors Clinic, points out: “Allergic reactions can be immediate or delayed. As soon as the culprit hits the body system or skin surface, a skin irritation might develop. The rash can look like red weals, or hives or spots, and can be very itchy,” she explains.

“Other signs include mild sneezing or a runny nose, lip or tongue tingling or swelling, diarrhoea or vomiting, and difficulty breathing or wheezing.

“Delayed allergic reactions tend to manifest as eczema, poor weight gain, chronic diarrhoea or constipation.”

CAN A FOOD ALLERGY BE SERIOUS?

DR DANIEL stresses that if breathing difficulties/wheezing occur, this “is anaphylaxis and may be life-threatening”. Other warning signs of anaphylaxis can include a swelling of the mouth, tongue and throat, a tight chest, dizziness and confusion and a drop in blood pressure. If any of these symptoms occur it’s vital to seek urgent medical help and call 999.

Your doctor will be able to help with avoiding recurrences, and devising an action plan in case it does ever happens again.

For example, some may need to carry an EpiPen, pictured, and making other people aware of your child’s allergy can be important. Allergy UK is a useful source of information

If you suspect your child might have a food allergy speak to your GP and they’ll advise on tests or managing the allergy and treatment options if necessary.