April 22nd – 28th April 2024 – Is allergy awareness week in the UK. Allergy UK provide support people who live with allergies. Allergies have a profound daily impact on the lives of people who are affected. Please take a look at this case study Samantha’s story: living with a food allergy.

As parents there’s nothing quite like the joy of introducing your child to a new food. Watching their eyes light up at the sight of a brightly coloured berry, or the pure concentration as they explore the taste and texture of mashed avocado – these are moments that create lasting memories. But for parents of children with food allergies, this adventurous exploration of food can be laced with worry.

Navigating a World of Allergies

Food allergies are becoming increasingly common, affecting around 1 in 50 children in the UK. This means a significant number of families are navigating a world where seemingly ordinary foods can trigger a serious reaction. For these families, introducing new foods requires a more cautious approach, often involving a food diary and close collaboration with a healthcare professional.

The Importance of Planning

While food allergies can present challenges, there’s no need to give up on the joy of exploring new flavours. By learning about food allergies, being vigilant about allergens, and planning ahead, you can help keep your child safe and ensure they can still participate in the wonderful world of food.

Recognizing the Signs

Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe and can appear within minutes of exposure. Here are some key signs to watch out for:

• Skin reactions: Hives, redness, swelling (especially around the lips and face)
• Stomach problems: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, cramps
• Breathing difficulties: Wheezing, coughing, trouble breathing
• Anaphylaxis: This is a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms can include severe swelling, difficulty breathing, and a rapid drop in blood pressure.

Helpful Tips and Advice for Parents:

• Work with a healthcare professional: An allergist or paediatrician can help you develop a personalised allergy management plan for your child. This may include identifying trigger foods, creating a food diary to track reactions, and discussing emergency protocols.
• Embrace gradual introduction: When introducing new foods, start with small amounts and monitor your child closely for any reactions. It’s best to introduce new foods at home in a controlled environment.
• Food diary diligence: Keeping a detailed food diary is crucial for tracking potential allergens and identifying patterns in your child’s reactions. Note down the food consumed, time of ingestion, and any symptoms that may arise.
• Read food labels carefully: This is essential for every parent, but even more so for those with children who have allergies. Always check ingredient lists for allergens highlighted in bold. Don’t hesitate to contact manufacturers if you have any questions about ingredients or processing methods.
• Communicate openly: Talk to your child’s school, childcare providers, and social circles about their allergies. Ensure they understand the severity of the allergy and have a plan in place in case of a reaction. Equip your child with an allergy alert card, bracelet or tinytags wristband with emergency contact information.
• Empower your child: As your child gets older, involve them in managing their allergy. Teach them to identify their trigger foods, read food labels, and communicate their needs clearly.
• Embrace safe alternatives: There are many delicious and safe alternatives available for children with food allergies. Explore allergy-friendly recipes and baking options to ensure your child can still enjoy all the fun of food experiences.

Tiny Tags: An Extra Layer of Security and Peace of Mind for Parents of Children with Food Allergies

While allergy alert cards are a vital tool, tinytags can offer an extra layer of security and peace of mind for parents of children with food allergies. Here’s how Tiny Tags can help:

• https://tinytags.co.uk/Digital Medical Information: tinytags offer products which are NFC and/or QR code enabled, allowing you to store and easily share essential information like your child’s name, emergency contact details, and a list of allergies. A quick scan with a smartphone can provide medical personnel or concerned individuals with crucial details in an emergency situation. This is especially useful for children who are non-verbal or too young to communicate effectively.
• Durable and Waterproof: Unlike traditional allergy cards, tinytags are waterproof and durable, making them ideal for active kids. They can be worn on a wristband, clipped to a backpack, or attached to a medical bag.
• Comfortable: tinytags are designed with children in mind and come in a variety of colours and designs, so your child can wear them comfortably.

Complementary to Alert Cards:

tinytags are not a replacement for allergy alert cards, but rather a complementary tool. You can think of them as a digital extension of the information on the card.

Medical Bag Attachment: Consider attaching a tinytag to your child’s medical bag or medication. This way, if your child has an allergic reaction and is unable to communicate, medical personnel can access vital information quickly.

For Further Information:

We recommend that you look at the following resources for further information and support:

• Allergy UK:
  • Allergy UK is the leading national charity dedicated to supporting adults and children with allergies. Their website offers a wealth of information, resources, and a helpline for those with questions.

Empowering Parents, Keeping Children Safe

By following these tips and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, you can create a safe and enjoyable food experience for your child. Remember, you’re not alone! There are many resources and support networks available to help you navigate the world of food allergies with confidence.

Thanks for reading

Written by Katie Green