PART 1: UNDERSTANDING CHILDREN AND FOOD ALLERGIES
As a parent, one of the most important aspects of your child's health is understanding allergies, particularly food allergies. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a harmless substance as if it were a dangerous invader. Let's dive into the world of children and food allergies to better comprehend what's going on inside their bodies.
WHAT ARE ALLERGIES AND THE IMMUNE SYSTEM'S ROLE:
Our immune system's primary job is to protect us from harmful invaders like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Sometimes, however, the immune system can become overly sensitive and respond to substances that are generally harmless. These substances are known as allergens. When an allergic individual comes into contact with an allergen, their immune system releases chemicals like histamine, which lead to various allergic reactions.
COMMON FOOD ALLERGIES:
Children are particularly susceptible to food allergies. Some of the most common food allergens include:
Peanuts: Peanut allergies are widespread and can cause severe reactions. Even tiny amounts of peanuts can trigger allergic responses in some children.
Milk: Dairy allergies can lead to digestive issues, skin rashes, and breathing difficulties. It's important to note that lactose intolerance is different from a milk allergy.
Eggs: Egg allergies are common in young children. They can cause skin rashes, stomach pain, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
Tree Nuts: Allergies to tree nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews can also result in severe reactions.
Soy: Soy allergies can cause digestive problems and skin reactions in children.
Wheat: Wheat allergies can lead to gastrointestinal distress, skin rashes, and even respiratory issues.
Fish and Shellfish: Fish and shellfish allergies can cause severe reactions, and they often persist into adulthood.
TESTING FOR ALLERGIES AND INCIDENCE OF PEDIATRIC FOOD ALLERGIES:
If you suspect your child has a food allergy, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial. They can perform various tests, including skin prick tests and blood tests, to identify specific allergens. The incidence of pediatric food allergies has been on the rise over the years, with estimates suggesting that up to 8% of children in some countries may have a food allergy. It's important to remember that allergies can vary in severity, with some children experiencing mild reactions while others face life-threatening anaphylactic responses.
In Part 2, we'll explore how to manage and treat allergies, including cutting-edge approaches like oral immune therapy for allergens such as peanuts. We'll also debunk some common myths surrounding allergies.