Food allergies rising among US children

courtesy Evah Smit

A new study in Pediatrics finds that food allergies in children of the United States have risen 18% between the years of 1997 and 2006. The study, made up of children under the age of 18, used information from national surveys conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics as well as information regarding food allergy-related ambulatory and physician hospital stays from the National Medical Ambulatory Survey and National Hospital Discharge Survey.

It is thought that food allergies are rising amongst children, but data does not reveal whether increases are actually due to a rise in food allergies or a rise in awareness of the existence of food allergies. Regardless of the reason these allergies are being detected, it is important for parents to be aware of the issue and watch their children for possible signs of food allergies and intolerances.

First, food allergies many times can be traced to one of the main known allergens, peanuts, wheat or gluten, dairy, soy, eggs, shellfish or seafood, and chocolate. Sometimes allergens extend to certain fruits or vegetable such as tomatoes, strawberries or citrus fruits. Reactions vary and are not always considered allergies. Less severe reactions that do not appear to be simultaneous can be considered intolerances or sensitivities, while allergies tend to spur an immediate reaction such as anaphylaxis or rashes.

What causes food allergies?

Food allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts to a particular type of food, the same way it might react to pollen or mold when a person experiences seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies, however, are outside the body while the food allergen is actually inside, often creating a more severe reaction. The body identifies the food as a substance considered harmful and releases IgE, and antibody, that will fight the “foreign substance.” After initial exposure even small amounts of the allergen can cause the body to react and releasing histamines and creating an allergic response.

What are the signs of a food allergy?

Again, signs of a food allergy vary widely in children. Parents should look for:

• Swelling of the tongue or facial area,
• Watery eyes, runny nose, itchy eyes and nose,
• Rashes and or eczema,
• Wheezing or asthma-related symptoms,
• Mood swings or tendencies toward attention difficulties and/or hyperactivity,
• Nausea,
• Dizziness or lack of ability to focus, and
• Diarrhea or immediate and severe digestive disturbances.

It is important to note that a food allergy can become more severe over time. It is important to have children checked and tested when food allergies are suspected. Food intolerances are also serious, but usually do not present an immediate threat.

Sources:

Branum, Amy; Lucaks, Susan; Food Allergy Among Children in the United States. Pediatrics. November 16, 2009 online.

Mayo Clinic, online.