Food Allergy Advice for Parents
Food allergies are a growing concern for parents in Atlanta and across the country. For anyone facing the threat of an allergic reaction, it can be comforting to know that food allergy treatments are available. However, before you can treat an allergy, you need to know the allergen responsible for triggering a reaction.
What Are the Main Foods Responsible for Allergies?
It is possible to suffer a reaction from any type of food, but the vast majority of issues are caused by just eight foods. These foods are peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, soy and wheat. While it’s important to be aware of an adverse reaction from any food, be particularly cautious of three foods that can have severe consequences for young children. What are these foods? They are peanuts, tree nuts and milk.
Peanut Allergy
Peanut allergies are common in both adults and children. While many people experience minor symptoms like a runny nose or slight swelling of the lips or tongue, there is the possibility of anaphylaxis. Due to the potential severity of an allergic reaction, it is important to speak to an allergist if you have concerns. Of the many kids allergic to peanuts, some will grow out of it while others could find that the problem gets worse. Avoidance will prevent a future reaction, but the long-term solution involves building tolerance levels through oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT).
Tree Nut Allergy
A tree nut allergy is accompanied by the threat of anaphylaxis depending on the frequency of the condition in children. Additionally, there is less chance of growing out of the allergy when compared to other allergens. If you experience any reaction, it’s important to avoid all tree nuts until you have had a consultation with an experienced allergist. Tree nuts include Brazil nuts, cashews, almonds, pistachios, pine nuts, macadamia nuts and walnuts.
Milk Allergy
An allergy to cow’s milk is most common in babies and young children. As children get older, many will find their tolerance for milk increases, but this should only be tested under the supervision of an allergist. Milk allergy symptoms include swelling, rashes and stomach pains, with the potential for anaphylaxis. It’s important to note that symptoms from milk consumption could indicate either an allergy or an intolerance. Your allergist will determine whether the issue is an immune system response, or a digestion problem.
Are Food Allergy Treatments Available?
Following an allergic reaction, you should avoid consumption of the food you believe to be responsible. An allergist may also recommend you carry an EpiPen® in case of emergencies. If you want to substantially reduce the risks of an allergic reaction, OIT can provide an effective milk, tree nut and peanut allergy treatment.
Get Effective Treatment for a Food Allergy
Food allergies are a danger for both adults and children, but there are treatments available. Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center diagnoses food allergies and develops food allergy treatment plans from locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Make an appointment by calling (678) 668-4688.
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