Does your child have a food allergy? Let's be aware of these safety measures

Has your child suddenly started itching or developing red rashes after eating something at a party? Or is it difficult to breathe or has a stomach ache? Any mother or father would be very scared when they see something like this. The reason for this could be that the child is allergic to that food. In medical terms, we call this a food allergy. So today, let's talk about some things you should definitely know to protect your child if they have such a condition. This is like a checklist. It is very important that not only you but the entire family knows these things.

Make an 'Action Plan' for an emergency

This is the most important thing. If your doctor has confirmed that your child has a food allergy, the next thing to do is to create an emergency plan. Not only you, but everyone who will be taking care of your child should be aware of this plan.

• Family: Tell everyone, including grandparents, aunts, and uncles, about this.
• School teachers : Inform the child's class teacher and principal about this in writing.
• Other caregivers: Explain this to everyone, including the teacher at the daycare the child attends, the uncle in the school van, and so on.

It is essential for everyone to know exactly what foods their child is allergic to, what the symptoms of an allergy are, and what to do in an emergency.

The importance of being prepared at all times

Some children can have very severe food allergies. This severe allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis . This is a life-threatening emergency. If your child is at risk of having this severe allergic reaction, you and other caregivers should always be prepared to use an epinephrine auto-injector . In Sri Lanka, your doctor will give you the medication and instructions you need for this. The EpiPen or Auvi-Q are two commonly used devices.

Know exactly what triggers your allergies.

Ask your doctor for a complete list of foods your child may be allergic to and the ingredients they contain. Sometimes these ingredients may be listed under other names on food labels. For example, a child with a milk allergy may be allergic to something that says 'casein' or 'whey'. So be aware of these names as well.

Inform your child about this too.

Teach your child about this allergy in an age-appropriate manner.

• Tell me what foods are not good to eat.
• Make it a habit to ask your mom or dad before eating food served by someone else.
• If your child is a little older, teach them how to use an epinephrine injection in an emergency. This is a life-saving skill.

Make it a habit to read food labels.

This is something you should never forget . Read the label on every food package you buy from the store. Imagine that packet of biscuits you always bring home. What if the company that makes it changes their production process and adds a little peanuts to it, which your baby is allergic to? So, even if it's something you buy every day, always read the label. If in doubt, don't give that food to your child.

Keep these things in mind when eating out

Eating out can be a bit risky for a child with allergies , but with proper management, it can be controlled.

• Beware of salad bars, bakeries, and deli counters: These places can have hidden triggers. Sharing multiple foods with the same spoon can cause allergens to accumulate.
• At the restaurant: Before you order, clearly tell the waiter or manager about your child's allergy. Order a meal that is as simple and minimal as possible.
• If in doubt, don't feed it: If you're not 100% sure about the safety of a food, don't feed it to your child. Keep a few safe foods on hand that your child likes to eat just in case.
• Wear a medical ID: If your child has a severe allergy, wear a medical ID bracelet or necklace that mentions it. It can be very helpful in an emergency.

Be aware of hidden triggers

Sometimes these allergens can be hidden not only in food, but also in other things we use. For example, some medications, soaps, body lotions, and other products may contain things like peanut oil and milk proteins.

If you have any doubts about a product, always consult your doctor before using it. If necessary, you can also contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital to find out more about the ingredients in the product.

Finally, do not keep foods that your child is allergic to at home. Otherwise, keep them safely out of your child's reach.

Food Allergy, Children's Health, Anaphylaxis, EpiPen, Emergency Treatment, Food Labels, Parenting Advice