Approximately 12 million Americans suffer from food allergies. Children are the largest group affected by this potentially life threatening medical condition. Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE) founded Food Allergy Awareness Week in 1998 to educate the public about food allergies and how they affect those who suffer from them.
FOOD ALLERGY BULLYING: IT’S NOT A JOKE
Top 8 foods Responsible for Allergic Reaction*:
Peanuts Milk
Tree Nuts Eggs
Wheat Fish
Shellfish Soy
*Other, less common foods can also cause allergic reactions
Symtpoms of an allergic reaction can vary from red, itchy skin or nausea and vomiting to difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis is a severe respiratory reaction to an allergen (a substance that causes an allergic reaction) that can be life-threatening.
Common Warning Signs and Symptoms of Anaphylactic Reaction:
- Complaint of a tingling, itchiness, or metallic taste in the mouth
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling and/or itching of the mouth and throat area
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Cramps and stomach pain
- Paleness (due to a drop in blood pressure)
- Loss of consciousness
If you see someone with any of these symptoms ACT FAST! Call 911, mention anaphylaxis, and say you need someone who can administer epinephrine.
For more information, see related articles and nutrition resources here:
- Pediatric Corner: Cow’s Milk Allergy
- How to Help Families with Special Needs Survive the Holidays
- Ask the RD: Milk Intolerance versus Milk Allergy: What’s the Difference?
- Breastfeeding Tips: Transitioning from Your Pregnancy Diet
- How to Make a Care Manual for Your Child with Special Needs
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