Article by Brandpoint Website
What is a food allergy? Simply put, it's an allergic reaction that occurs after eating a food allergen. Your body's immune system mistakenly responds to a certain food as if it were a harmful germ, causing an allergic reaction.
In children, the most common food allergies are to peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, fin fish and shellfish. A serious allergic reaction involves two or more body organs - the skin, lungs, stomach and/or heart. Symptoms may include:
* Hives on the skin, sometimes on several parts of the body
* Shortness of breath, wheezing, repetitive cough
* Tightness in the throat, hoarse, trouble swallowing
* Swelling of the tongue, lips or throat
(BPT) - Children spend anywhere from 800 to 1,100 hours at school each year. For those with food allergies, that time comes with added risks. From cafeteria meals to classroom snacks, the risk of a food allergy exposure is an everyday concern.
And with good reason: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 13 children - roughly two per classroom - are affected by food allergies. Of those, 42% have experienced at least one severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. For children at risk, even a small exposure can be life-threatening.
The good news? With the right preparation, you can help your child manage food allergies with care and consistency. Discover how to educate, plan and confidently communicate with school staff and other parents to support your child throughout the school year.
Awareness and education are key
HEALTH MATTERS
Back to School Food Allergy Guide: What Parents Need to Know