Food allergies are becoming increasingly common, especially among children. According to the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology, food allergies affect up to 6% of children in the developed world.
While any food can cause an allergic reaction, some are more likely to do so than others. This guide answers the question; what is the most common food allergy in kids? It also gives insights into diagnosis and peanut allergy treatment options. Keep reading.
What is the most Common Food Allergy in Kids?
Food allergies are becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide, affecting people of all ages. In Singapore, peanut allergy is the most common food allergy among children.
According to studies, peanut allergy affects around 19% of children, making it the top food trigger. The second most common food trigger among children is eggs, affecting around 12%. Shellfish and bird’s nest rank third, both affecting around 10% of children.
These statistics are concerning, as food allergies can lead to severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition. In a typical classroom of 25 to 30 children in Singapore, at least one child is likely to have a peanut allergy.
As a result, it does help for parents and teachers to be aware of the symptoms of food allergies and know how to respond to an allergic reaction. Peanut allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies peanut proteins as harmful and mounts an attack against them.
This can cause a range of symptoms, from mild itching and hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause breathing difficulties, rapid heartbeat, and a drop in blood pressure.
If left untreated, anaphylaxis can be fatal. Therefore, it is essential for parents, teachers, and caregivers to be trained in recognizing the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and know how to administer the appropriate treatment, such as an epinephrine auto-injector.
What are the Symptoms of Peanut Allergy in Kids?
The symptoms of peanut allergy in kids can vary in severity. They may appear within minutes of exposure to peanuts or may take several hours to develop.
In some cases, a child may experience a delayed reaction to peanuts, which can make it challenging to identify the cause of the symptoms. Some of the most typical symptoms of peanut allergy in kids include:
- Hives or skin rash
- Itching or tingling which may be felt in or around the mouth and throat
- Swelling of the throat, tongue, lips, or face
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Anaphylaxis which is a severe allergic reaction that can cause breathing difficulties, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness
How is Peanut Allergy Diagnosed in Kids?
If you suspect your child is allergic to peanuts, it is important to seek medical advice from a qualified doctor. There are several diagnostic methods that doctors use to identify peanut allergies in children. Two of the most common methods are skin prick tests and blood tests.
During a skin prick test, a small amount of peanut extract is applied to the skin, and then a needle is used to prick the skin. A raised bump called a wheal will appear on the skin if your child is allergic to peanuts.
The size of the wheal indicates the severity of the allergy. Skin prick tests are safe, quick, and accurate and can be performed in a doctor’s office.
Blood tests can also be used to diagnose peanut allergies. These tests measure the levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood.
The immune system produces IgE antibodies in response to allergens like peanuts. If IgE antibodies levels in the blood are high, it is indicative of an allergy. Blood tests are less invasive than skin prick tests and can be useful in cases where the patient has severe eczema or has taken antihistamines, which can interfere with skin prick tests.
How can Parents Prevent Peanut allergies in their Kids?
While there is no cure for peanut allergy, there are steps you can take as a parent to reduce the risk of your child developing an allergy. For example, you may want to introduce allergenic and non-allergenic food products (peanuts included) to your child’s diet early, around 4-6 months of age, to reduce the risk of peanut allergy.
It would also be best to consider breastfeeding, as breast milk can help protect against the development of allergies. If breastfeeding is not possible, use a hypoallergenic formula. For kids at high risk of peanut allergy, you may need to take additional precautions, such as avoiding peanuts during pregnancy and breastfeeding and avoiding peanut products in the first few years of their life.
Managing peanut Allergies in Kids?
Managing peanut allergy in kids involves avoiding exposure to peanuts and having an emergency plan in place in case of accidental exposure. It is advisable that you read food labels carefully and avoid foods that contain peanuts or peanut products.
You should also ask about ingredients when eating out and inform servers and chefs about your child’s allergy. Also, be sure always to carry an epinephrine auto-injector in case of accidental exposure.
An epinephrine auto-injector is a medical device that delivers a dose of epinephrine, a hormone that can help reverse anaphylaxis symptoms. If your child experiences anaphylaxis, you should administer the epinephrine auto-injector immediately and seek emergency medical attention.
It’s also important to educate your child about their peanut allergy and how to avoid exposure to peanuts. Teach them to read food labels and to always ask about ingredients when eating out. Encourage them to speak up if they feel unwell or think they may have been exposed to peanuts.
Wrapping Up
Peanut allergy is the most common food allergy in kids and can cause a range of symptoms, from mild itching to life-threatening anaphylaxis. If you suspect your child has a peanut allergy, consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
While there is no cure for peanut allergy, you can also always take steps to reduce the risk of your child developing an allergy and to manage the allergy if it does occur. So, make a point of learning and educating your children about peanut allergy to keep them safe and healthy.
Are you concerned about your child’s skin health? At The Dermatology Clinic, we offer personalized skincare solutions that can help prevent and manage common skin conditions, including peanut allergy-related rashes and itchiness.
Our team of dermatologists and skincare specialists will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that meets your child’s unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards healthy, happy skin for your child.
The Dermatology Clinic | ADULT & PAEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY AND SKIN SPECIALIST
321 Joo Chiat Pl,
#05-01A Parkway East Specialist Hospital,
Singapore 427990
https://thedermclinic.com.sg/
+6590230905
