Food Allergies And Food Sensitivities

A food allergy is a very scary allergic reaction to a particular item of food. Food allergies are usually not diagnosed until a child has been exposed to the allergen and experienced an adverse reaction.

Parents of children who have a food allergy know how scary and unpredictable the problem can be. Often our children are exposed to food items that have ingredients they are not completely aware of, thus exposing them to the food they are allergic to.

Allergies and sensitivities to foods are two different ideas. Sensitivities to foods are far less severe and the reactions do not occur immediately. It can be harder to detect sensitivities to foods because if a person eats an entire meal, it will not always be apparent as to what food caused the reaction. However, allergies are different. With allergies, a reaction takes place every time within seconds of ingesting the food allergen.

It is not practical or realistic to try to shield a child from harmful foods all the time. Although you might be able to give your child only those foods that they are not allergic to, there is always the potential that they will eat an offending product when you are not around.

Be certain that you and your child's caregivers always have access to medicine that will neutralize their allergic reaction. In most cases, this will be a special medical tool that administers epinephrine, otherwise known as adrenaline. Afterwards, it is vital for you child to receive quick medical attention.

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