Understanding Food Allergens
Just a few years ago, pediatricians advised parents to shield their children from allergenic foods before the age of one. Research now shows that exposing children to these foods—like peanuts and eggs—when they can tolerate solid foods may actually be good for them and help prevent food allergies in the future.
Many babies begin to explore solid foods between the ages of four and six months. Hosts Alok Patel and Bethany Van Delft discuss how to safely expose your child to common food allergens.
The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends introducing common food allergens to children early and often. Research shows that early introduction might actually provide a layer of protection and help prevent food allergies.
Anaphylaxis occurs when the body is exposed to an allergen and the immune system “goes haywire,” says Alok. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include flushing of the skin, hives, trouble breathing, increased heart rate, nausea, and vomiting.
Epinephrine—also called adrenaline— is the only medication that helps reverse the symptoms of an allergic reaction and can be life-saving. If someone needs an epinephrine treatment because of an allergic reaction, “You should be calling 911 and seeking medical care immediately,” says Alok. But there are situations where you may have to give epinephrine (via an auto-injector, or EpiPen) to others without having medical training yourself. Remember, be sure to read and follow the instructions when using an epinephrine auto-injector. In general, when administering an auto-injector,
“Blue to the sky, orange to the thigh.”
The orange part of the injector should go straight into the person’s thigh, and the blue safety seal should be away from the body. When the injector hits the thigh, you should hear a “click” and wait a full three seconds while the medication dispenses into the body. Once the three seconds are up, rub the injection site for 10 seconds. After you’ve dispensed the epinephrine, you should be either waiting for medical personnel to arrive on the scene or driving to an emergency department, “because some kids may need another dose of epinephrine or more medical treatment,” says Alok.
Brand name epinephrine auto-injectors can be expensive. Alok suggests that you chat with your doctor about getting a generic epinephrine auto-injector because they can be life-saving in the face of anaphylaxis.
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