Although the immune system normally protects people from germs, in people with food allergies, the immune system mistakenly responds to food as if it was harmful and has a specific and reproducible immune response to certain foods.
This response can be severe and life threatening, such as anaphylaxis, a sudden and severe allergic reaction that may cause death, however not all allergic reactions will develop into anaphylaxis. The prevalence of food allergies among children has increased and allergic reactions to foods have become the most common cause of anaphylaxis in community health settings.
The Medic Alert Foundations says eight foods or food groups account for 90% of serious allergic reactions, namely milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, wheat, soy, peanuts and tree nuts.
Children, experiencing a food allergy, may describe the reaction as:
The symptoms and severity of allergic reactions to food can be different between individuals and can be different for someone over time. According to the Medic Alert Foundation of SA, children with food allergies are more likely to have asthma or other allergic conditions than those without food allergies.
There is no cure for food allergies. Strict avoidance of the food allergen is the only way to prevent a reaction. Early and quick recognition and treatment of allergic reactions that may lead to anaphylaxis can prevent serious health problems or death. Wearing a bracelet can save your child's life. These are available online at www.medicalert.co.za.
