Food Allergies in Kids: What to Know

Food is good, sometimes even great. But food allergies are common and can be dangerous. The best way to keep your children safe is to prevent allergic reactions before they happen. .

Know your allergens

The first step to staying safe is learning which foods cause allergic reactions in you and your family members.

The most common food allergens are:

• peanuts
• tree nuts (like almonds or walnuts)
• milk
• eggs
• wheat
• soy
• fish
• shellfish

Always check food labels and ask about ingredients when eating outside the house. If you’re unsure if something is safe, don’t allow your child to eat it.

Always carry your child’s allergy medicine.

If your child has a food allergy, always carry an epinephrine auto-injector, like an EpiPen. They should have one at school and with them at playdates, sleepovers, after-school activities, etc. EpiPens can stop a dangerous reaction called anaphylaxis, which can make it hard to breathe. Without swift action, anaphylaxis can be fatal.

Make sure your child’s injector is not expired and that you know how to use it. If the only EpiPen you have is expired, you can still use it if the liquid is clear and has no particles or changes in color. Using it is better than not using anything because even a weaker dose is safer than no dose during a severe reaction.

How to use an epinephrine auto-injector.

If someone has a severe allergic reaction, using an auto-injector quickly can save their life. There are different types of devices, so make sure you know how to use your child’s. You should teach your child how to use their EpiPen starting around 5 years old.

Follow these steps to use an EpiPen, which is one of the popular devices:

1. Remove the blue safety cap.
2. Hold it firmly with the orange tip pointing down – remember, “Blue to the Sky, Orange to the Thigh.”
3. Push the orange tip against the outer thigh (you can do this through clothing).
4. Hold it there for 5 seconds.
5. After using the injector, call 911 or go to the hospital right away. The medicine may wear off, and the person might need more help.

Speak up about your child’s allergy.

Make sure people around your child know about their allergies. Tell teachers, friends, and family what foods they must avoid and what to do in an emergency. If they’re eating at a restaurant, ask if their food contains or touches allergens before they eat. Do not allow them to share food at school. If they’re traveling, have them bring their own snacks and look up safe places to eat ahead of time.

Know the signs of an allergic reaction.

Watch for:

• Hives (red, raised, itchy rashes)
• Swelling (especially around the face, lips, or tongue)
• Trouble breathing
• Stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea

If these symptoms appear, use an epinephrine auto-injector and get help fast. Remember, it’s safer to administer the injection than to hesitate.

Should I introduce my baby to allergens?

Some studies show that introducing common allergens to babies before their first birthday (like nut butters and eggs) may help them avoid developing allergies. Talk to your child’s pediatrician if that is something you’re interested in learning more about.

Food allergies can be scary, but being prepared can help your kids stay safe. Know your child’s allergens, carry their medicine, and speak up about their needs. With the proper steps, they can live confidently and avoid dangerous reactions.

Being careful isn’t about fear — it’s about staying strong and safe.

For more information about how to keep your child safe from food allergies, talk to your child’s doctor or call the Injury Free Coalition for Kids, a program of Jackson Hospital and University of Miami, funded by the Children’s Trust at 305-243-9080 or visit www.injuryfree.org.

Written by Travis Satnarine, M.D., with Julie Belkowitz, M.D., M.P.H.,Oneith Cadiz, M.D., Lyse Deus, M.Ed., and Taylor Rosenbaum, M.D., M.A.

Tags: Dr. Julie Belkowitz, Dr. Oneith Cadiz, Dr. Taylor Rosenbaum, Dr. Travis Satnarine, healthy children, pediatric care in Miami