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Back-to-school guide for parents of children with allergies

9th September 2024

Back-to-school guide for parents of children with allergies

As children head back to school, parents of children with allergies face unique challenges to ensure their safety and well-being throughout the term. Whether it’s food, environmental, or other allergens, careful planning can help minimise risks. Here’s a comprehensive guide for parents in England to navigate the school year successfully.

Communicate with the school

Inform teachers and staff: Ensure all staff, including teachers, lunchtime supervisors, and school nurses, are fully informed about your child’s allergies. Share detailed information about symptoms, triggers, and emergency procedures.
Emergency action plan: Provide the school with a written action plan detailing what to do if your child has an allergic reaction. This should include the types of medication they may need, such as antihistamines or an EpiPen, and instructions on administering it.
Team up with key staff: Arrange a meeting with the headteacher, school nurse, and teachers to discuss your child’s needs. Review the school’s allergy policy to make sure it aligns with your expectations.

Safe snacks and meals

School lunches: If your child eats school-provided meals, ensure the catering team is aware of their allergies and can provide safe, allergen-free options. If needed, review the menu to confirm there are alternatives.
Packed lunches: For children bringing their own food, pack safe, allergy-free meals. Consider labels that indicate any allergens, or use bright, easy-to-spot containers for clarity.
Snack guidelines: Confirm if the school has guidelines for classroom snacks or shared treats, especially during celebrations or holidays. You may need to provide a stash of safe treats your child can have when others bring in snacks.

Medical supplies and accessibility

Keep medication at school: Make sure that your child’s medication, such as antihistamines or an EpiPen, is up-to-date and stored safely at school. Ensure staff know where these are kept and that they are easily accessible in an emergency.
Medic alert: Consider a medical alert bracelet for your child that clearly lists their allergies. This is particularly helpful if they are older and have more independence around school.

Educating your child

Allergy awareness: Teach your child about their allergies, including what they can and can’t eat, how to recognise a reaction, and what to do in an emergency. Encourage them to always ask if they’re unsure whether a food is safe.
Role-play scenarios: Practice scenarios in which they may have to politely decline food or seek help if they feel unwell. This builds their confidence in managing their allergies when you’re not there.

Allergy-friendly classroom environment

Allergen management: Ensure that the classroom is a safe environment. Discuss with teachers whether there are potential allergens in art supplies, science experiments, or even classroom pets. Some schools may opt for an allergen-free classroom policy.
Classroom supplies: To reduce the risk of cross-contamination, consider providing your child’s classroom with allergen-free materials, such as safe hand wipes.

Sports activities

PE and sports day: Ensure that PE teachers and sports staff are aware of your child’s allergies, particularly if they involve environmental factors like pollen or insect stings. Make sure they have access to your child’s medication during outdoor activities.
Field trips and outings: Discuss the details of any trips or outings with teachers beforehand. Confirm that appropriate precautions are in place and that the staff in charge know how to manage your child’s allergies away from school.

Reinforcing school allergy policies

Nut-Free policies: Many schools in the UK have a nut-free policy to protect students with severe allergies. Understand the school’s policy, and help reinforce it by communicating with other parents.
Classmate education: Encourage the school to raise awareness among classmates. This could be through a lesson or assembly on allergies to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for children with allergies.

Monitoring mental and emotional health

Anxiety and social pressure: Allergies can sometimes cause children to feel anxious or different from their peers. Talk to your child about how they feel and help them manage any anxiety around school.
Inclusion: Work with teachers to ensure that your child is included in all school activities, from sports to birthday parties, while managing their allergies. This can help prevent feelings of isolation or exclusion.

Ongoing communication

Regular check-ins: Stay in regular communication with the school throughout the term. Keep staff updated on any changes in your child’s allergies or treatment plans. Likewise, ask for feedback on how things are going at school and address any issues as they arise.
Updating Records: Ensure the school has updated records at all times, including emergency contact details and any medical advice or changes from healthcare providers.

Be prepared for emergencies

Emergency drills: Ask the school if they run drills or scenarios for allergic reactions. This will give you confidence that the staff are well-prepared to handle an emergency situation.
Personal emergency kit: Consider giving your child a small emergency kit that they can keep with them. The kit should contain items like safe snacks, EpiPens, hand wipes, and a copy of their allergy action plan.

By taking these steps, parents of children with allergies can help ensure that their child with allergies has a safe, supportive, and inclusive school experience throughout the term. Regular communication and preparation are key to managing the challenges that come with allergies and helping your child feel confident and secure at school.

Allergies can be a challenge to your child’s life, but with the right diagnosis and management plan, they can be kept under control. Our experts specialise in identifying and treating pediatric allergies. If you suspect allergies, we can help you understand exactly what triggers your child’s symptoms and how to tackle them effectively. Why not register as a new patient or take one of our home allergy tests? Together, we can tailor a school management plan that suits your child and lets them enjoy school to the fullest.

What do you do when you suspect you’re lactose intolerant?

5th February 2024

What do you do when you suspect you’re lactose intolerant?

Did you know that as a country, we are the fourth largest consumer of cheese in the world?

In 2023 alone, the UK consumed 780 thousand metric tons of cheese. Overshadowed only by the US, Russia, and Brazil, our nation stands its ground in average consumption per person, considering our humbler population size.

In fact, our love extends beyond cheese to all dairy products. Yet, it’s estimated that at least 8% of our population is lactose intolerant. Do you feel discomfort after consuming dairy products? If so, you’re not alone. Many people find themselves grappling with symptoms that may indicate lactose intolerance.

What is lactose intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is a condition that occurs when your body is unable to properly digest lactose, a type of sugar present in milk and dairy products. The root cause of this inability is a deficiency in lactase, an enzyme usually produced by the small intestine. Lactase is responsible for breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose, which are simpler sugars that the body can easily absorb. When there is insufficient lactase, lactose remains undigested in the digestive system. This undigested lactose can lead to various symptoms, often causing discomfort for those with the condition.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance

A strong indicator that you may be suffering from lactose intolerance is the onset of specific symptoms within a few hours after consuming foods or drinks that contain lactose. These symptoms include:

Bloating
Gas
Diarrhoea
Stomach cramps
Nausea

How lactose shows up in dairy products

It’s important to know that not all dairy products are created equal when it comes to lactose content. This is critical because the varying lactose content in dairy products might lead you to second-guess your symptoms, as not all dairy causes discomfort equally.

Milk

Regular cow’s milk has the highest lactose content, typically ranging from 4-5%. The lactose level varies slightly between whole, skim, and low-fat milk, but all types can trigger symptoms in individuals with lactose intolerance.

Cheese

Cheese generally contains less lactose than milk. Hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan, Cheddar, and Swiss are especially low in lactose, often containing less than 1%. In contrast, soft cheeses such as Brie or Camembert have more lactose than hard cheeses but still less than milk.

Yoghurt

Yoghurt is often more tolerable for those with lactose intolerance because it contains live bacteria that aid in lactose digestion. The lactose content in yoghurt varies, with Greek yoghurt typically having less lactose due to its straining process, which removes some of the lactose.

Butter

Butter has very low lactose content, as it is primarily composed of fat with minimal milk solids. This makes it a more tolerable option for many people with lactose intolerance.

Ice cream and processed dairy

Ice cream, particularly high-quality varieties, often has added milk solids, which increase its lactose content. Processed dairy products can also contain varying levels of lactose.

What do you do if you suspect lactose intolerance?

If you suspect that you may be lactose intolerant, it’s essential to approach the situation with care. Self-diagnosing lactose intolerance is not advisable, as its symptoms can overlap with other digestive issues, which might require different treatment. Moreover, trying to navigate this condition alone can be overwhelming and confusing.

To eliminate any uncertainty, the most effective first step is to take a lactose intolerance test. This test can help determine whether lactose is the root cause of your discomfort or if another issue is at play. Recognising that lactose intolerance is a manageable condition with the proper knowledge and strategies is key. Understanding how different dairy products affect you and recognising the symptoms are crucial steps in managing this condition.

Once you have a clear diagnosis, you can adopt a comfortable, lactose-free lifestyle more confidently. There are numerous lactose-free or low-lactose alternatives available, allowing you to enjoy many of your favourite foods without discomfort.

Navigating lactose intolerance can seem daunting, but remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Don’t hesitate to take the following steps towards better health. Register as a new patient today, and let’s start the process of helping you feel better. You have the option to visit our London-based allergy clinic for a comprehensive evaluation by our specialists or take advantage of our home allergy test.

6 unknown allergy triggers at school for first-time parents

20th September 2023

6 unknown allergy triggers at school for first-time parents

Sending your little one to school for the first time is a smorgasbord of emotion, filled with excitement, worry, and a slither of thought for future peace and quiet, mixed with dread and anticipation. As a parent, you want to ensure their well-being in every way possible, especially if your child has suspected allergies. The school environment can introduce a range of allergens that might affect your child’s health and comfort.

Let’s explore the types of allergies your child might encounter at school, empowering you to take proactive steps for their safety. Here are the allergy suspects that might already have a cameo appearance at home:

Exercise-induced allergies

Yep, it’s possible to be allergic to your own sweat. If your little ones are more into creative adventures than outdoor acrobatics, you might’ve missed those sneaky hives on their arms and neck after a bout of exercise. But school means playtime galore, and all that running around and PE could introduce exercise-induced urticaria – an allergy to sweat.

Food allergies

Schools are a melting pot of food allergies, ranging from the usual suspects like nuts and dairy to more unexpected guests like eggs and wheat. If your kitchen is allergy-proofed and free from certain foods, your little one might have a surprise encounter with a new treat that uncovers a hidden food allergy.

Insect sting and pollen allergies

Depending on where you live vs. your child’s school, you might be coming from a lower-risk area to a higher one. If you live more in the city and your child’s school is surrounded by fields and woodlands, there might be an increased risk of pollen and creatures they didn’t have before. This can trigger hay fever symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. If you’re worried about a reaction, keep an eye on pollen forecasts, especially on high-pollen days.

Mould allergies

This one is crucial as it’s also common in autumn—perfect timing for the new school year. Mould spores thrive in damp, decaying spaces, such as that big pile of wet leaves, which looks like a magical place to play for our children. It doesn’t necessarily mean that they shouldn’t, but it’s a good idea to explore if they have the potential to be causing issues before they do.

Pet allergies

When you have a pet allergy, it’s not necessarily touching the animal that causes the issue. It’s their saliva and fur (or dander), which can be easily passed across classrooms or encountered on sleepovers and playdates. If you have a pet-free family and your child hasn’t had many encounters with animals and then starts showing signs of sneezing, wheezing, and skin rashes, it could be from a contact allergy made in the school.

Allergies triggered by classroom materials

School supplies might look familiar, but some might have a twist. Markers, glues, and paints in the classroom could sneak in allergens. Even latex in gloves and balloons could stir up a reaction. A first-time encounter with these materials might leave you puzzled over the cause of your child’s response.

How can you prepare yourself and your child?

The common thread is that school throws your child into a new environment filled with its own set of allergens. Different cleaning potions, artsy materials, and outdoor spaces can trigger allergies you’re unaware of.

Understanding the potential allergens your child might encounter at school is the first step towards safeguarding their health and comfort. But it doesn’t have to be a scary ordeal. If you suspect your child has allergies or are unsure, preemptively testing can help you pinpoint specific triggers.

From here, you can work with the school to take appropriate precautions, ensuring your child’s safe and enjoyable school experience.

As your child dives into the world of education, empower yourself with knowledge. If you suspect allergies, take the proactive step of getting your child tested. Our experts are here to guide you through the process. Get in touch to discuss how to ensure your child’s well-being is prioritised at school and beyond. Call us on 02031 433 449 or register as a new patient today.

Back-to-school allergy checklist for parents: Navigating allergies with confidence

6th September 2023

Back-to-school allergy checklist for parents: Navigating allergies with confidence

As we find ourselves starting the new school year, the worries that come with sending your little one off to school might be creeping in. It never gets easier, does it?

This is especially true if your child has allergies, as their environment is beyond your control, and thinking about their safety can be anxiety-inducing.

Regardless of whether you’re concerned about food allergies, insect stings and bites, medication allergies, exercise-induced allergies or more complicated challenges such as cold urticaria, our checklist for navigating allergies with confidence stays the same. Follow these simple steps to maintain peace of mind over your child’s allergies this 2023/24 school year.

Open communication: The key to safety

Communication is the key to most situations. Your child’s allergies are no different. Communicate with the school, the teachers, friends, parents, and your child.

Even if your child has been attending the school for some time, it’s wise to check in every September. Under the Children and Families Act 2014, schools must accommodate arrangements for students with medical conditions, including allergies. Reach out to discuss your concerns and familiarise yourself with the school’s allergy policy. This conversation might involve school nurses and catering staff, particularly if your child has a food allergy.

When they start going for sleepovers or play dates, there’s no shame in speaking with the parents to ensure they’re comfortable with what to do in an emergency. It can be a fast, simple chat for long-term peace of mind.

Empowering your child: Knowledge is safety.

Depending on how young they are, your little one might already possess some knowledge about managing their allergies. Teach them through positive language why it’s essential to do what’s right for them and not just because everyone else is doing something different.

You also improve your chances of keeping them safe by teaching them and empowering them with their own safety.

For younger children, ensure they know which foods or substances trigger their allergies and are aware of avoiding them. Older children, while more conscious of their allergies, could benefit from collaborating with you to create a personalised plan. Teenagers are rebels. We were the same at that age; no teenager likes to be told what to do. They prefer to understand something and then do it ourselves. By giving them autonomy and involving them in managing their condition, you’ll help them foster a sense of control.

Food allergies: A delicate balance

The easiest way to overcome food challenges is to make a packed lunch. But that doesn’t stop children from sharing food. If your child doesn’t realise the severity of eating something, if only a little, or doesn’t know how to decline food politely, it can create issues further down the line.

Make sure to speak to the school’s catering staff. They are obligated to make reasonable adjustments for students with allergies. But not only that, who hasn’t met a kind and bubbly head dinner person? They’ll want to know what’s happening in their school so they can cater accordingly.

Food technology class (home economics when we were in school) is something to consider for older students, too. Make sure to speak with the food tech teacher ahead of time so they can either plan the syllabus accordingly or you can research food alternatives to navigate your child’s allergies.

EpiPens

If your child already has an EpiPen, be aware of your school’s store and access policy. They should have an individualised allergy plan for each affected child. Determine where the EpiPens are located and whether they can be accessed within a 5-minute window – as this is a crucial time frame.

If your child is in secondary school, they’re more likely to carry their EpiPens themselves.

It’s unfair to rely on their peers, but the teachers might need to be clued up on how to use them, especially if they are new to teaching. Make sure to inquire about staff training in administering EpiPens during emergencies. Getting tested for allergies is a proactive way to learn wether or not your child needs an EpiPen.

Preparation is critical to peace of mind.

While these steps won’t eradicate anxiety, they will empower you and your child to navigate the school year confidently. Proactive communication, equipping your child with knowledge, understanding EpiPens, and controlling food exposure are all practical measures to ensure their safety.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. If you require further advice or strategies for managing your child’s allergies, our experts are here to help. To first get them tested, register as a new patient here or calling us at 02031 433 449. Together, we’ll strive for your child’s safe and fulfilling school experience.

Back to school with food allergies: how can you prepare?

16th August 2023

Back to school with food allergies: how can you prepare?

It’s a scary time in any parent’s life: when your child goes off to school. Whether they’re just starting primary or are moving up to secondary school, you can’t help but feel this anxiety. Will they be okay? Will they do well? And will they make friends? All completely understandable concerns.

But if your child has an allergy, that’s a whole new level of stress. Not only are you worrying about the above, but now you have to face the prospect of letting your child head into an environment you can’t control. It’s something you can’t avoid. There is a silver lining, though. You can be proactive. Here’s our advice for managing your child’s allergies as they head back to school.

Talk to the school ahead of time

Your best first move is to let the school know that your child has an allergy. Yes, even if they’ve been going there for a few years already, it’s still best to check in every September. The school will have a duty of care to look after your child. The Children and Families Act 2014 makes it a legal requirement for them to make arrangements for pupils with medical conditions – and that includes allergies.

Talking to them allows you to get on the same page. What are your concerns? How do they address them? Ask about their allergy policy and what their response is to an allergic reaction. This conversation may also involve school nurses and catering staff, especially if your child has a food allergy.

Talk to your child

Depending on their age, there’s a good chance your child already knows how to handle their allergy – at least partly. They’re going to have to be responsible for themselves, so the more you can equip them with knowledge, the better.

For younger kids, it’s about making sure they know which foods (or other allergens) make them sick and to avoid them. No trading snacks or accepting food they don’t know. It’s also important you explain why – you don’t have to go into all the worst details, but they should know that “X food = sick”.

Older kids are more likely to be aware of their allergies, but they’re also at that age where identity is important to them. What teenagers want is to feel in control of their lives, especially when they have an allergy that holds them back. So work with them to come up with a plan. Give them some control in how they manage their condition.

What happens to their adrenaline auto-injector (AAI)?

Each school will have its own policy in how it handles any AAI. In fact, they should have a tailored allergy plan for each child with the condition. And that will involve the question of what to do with AAIs.

There are two concerns for you here: location and staff training. Where are the AAIs stored? And how long will it take for them to reach your child in an emergency? Anything longer than 5 minutes is a no go, so make sure it’s closer than that. Older kids may be allowed to carry their own on their person.

In regards to staff training, you’ll want to know who is capable of administering the AAI in case of an attack. If the school doesn’t have someone, make sure they work on getting a teacher or member of staff qualified before term starts.

Controlling food

It’s hard to talk about allergies without specifically mentioning food allergies. They’re common and can lead to some of the most fatal reactions. This is why you want to talk to the catering staff at the school. They should be required to make reasonable adjustments for certain pupils, so ask what their policy on food allergens is. How do they mitigate risk?

If their answers don’t fill you with confidence, consider packed lunches. It’s much easier to control. Talk to the school about potentially setting up a lunch buddy system so your child can eat at a table with students that have allergy-safe food.

Will this remove your anxiety? Likely not – nothing ever will. But will it at least make you feel more prepared? Absolutely. These are proactive steps you can take to make sure your child is as safe as can be. It’s a difficult time, but one you can get through together.

If you need more advice and strategies for managing your child’s allergies, get in touch with our experts today. You can register as a new patient or simply call us on 02031 433 449.

How to talk to your child about their allergies

1st February 2023

How to talk to your child about their allergies

We spend a lot of time in our blog talking about how you, as a parent, can navigate the challenges of your child’s allergies. Whether it’s answering your burning questions, talking about allergies in infants, or just general food allergy tips, we have you covered. But we never cover how to talk to your child about their allergies.

And it’s important to do. You can’t be around them 24/7 and they deserve to know how to manage their condition. So let’s bring them into the conversation. We’ve got some advice for how you can talk to your child about their allergies.

Start simple (and young)

You don’t want to throw everything at them at once. They could potentially be dealing with something deadly, and that’s a lot to put on their shoulders. So you want to start simple when they’re younger and introduce terms and elements that will become more apparent in the future.

For example, you might want to start by talking about their symptoms in a way they can understand. Maybe certain food makes their tummy hurt, or they get itchy eyes in summer. Identify their biggest gripes and explain why they happen. Keep language simple by saying something like “some foods aren’t safe for you” or that “flowers can sometimes make people sneeze”.

What you’re doing is drawing a link between how they feel and the world around them. And you want to clarify that these things aren’t nice (for them) and that we have to be careful around them. “We” is also important here. It lets them know this is a journey for the both of you.

Get them involved

As they start to get older and are heading out into the world on their own more, you want them to be fully aware of their allergies. This is a great time to get them involved. If they’re allergic to peanuts, it’s all well and good telling them that. But they need to know how those will present themselves in their lives.

So involve them in everything you do to keep them safe. Take them shopping and point out foods they can and can’t have. Tell them why they shouldn’t have them. But don’t make it sound scary. Treat it as an educational experience that empowers them to live free of danger.

Another great idea if they have a food allergy is to involve them in cooking. This is another way to make their allergies seem less scary – they get to see how simple it can be to stay safe. If not food, then at least show them any medication they might come across. It’s better if they’re prepared for a future EpiPen use.

Teach them how to talk about their allergy

Another aspect of them heading out on their own is that they will have to learn to rely on others when they need the help. Sure, you can tell their teachers or childminders about their condition. But the child themselves will need to know who to go to and how to express their needs.

It’s another aspect of helping them navigate the world. They need to know how to say no to certain foods, telling others about the impact of their allergy, and who’s in charge should an emergency happen. If you empower them to take charge of their allergy like this, you can be more confident in their safety. You can put at least a little trust in them!

None of this is easy to grapple with as a parent. And we completely understand that feeling of sheer trepidation at having to let them take care of themselves. But we have to let them do it. By preparing them and teaching them to own their allergies, you can give them the greatest chance of living happy and free. Like a child should be.

Going it alone is tough. So if you ever need advice – or even just someone to talk to – get in touch with us today. Our allergy specialists have worked with parents just like you to create a better life for your child. Call us on 02031 433 449 or register your child as a patient here.

Does your child have an allergy? Here are your burning questions answered

4th January 2023

Does your child have an allergy? Here are your burning questions answered

Being a parent is already difficult enough. You’re probably already well aware of the trials and tribulations of raising a small human. They can be naughty. They get sad. And sometimes you look back fondly on the days when you had so much more time and freedom. But would you change that for the world? Of course not.

Raising your child or children is a privilege – one that can, unfortunately, come with some challenges. Such as food allergies. It adds another complication onto an already tough task. And we understand why that can cause plenty of anxiety for you. If you’re new to the world of allergies and don’t know what to do, let us help. Here are some common allergy questions parents have.

Why does your child have an allergy?

We’ll start with one of the more obvious ones. Why do they have an allergy? Where did it even come from? We’re sorry to say that this doesn’t have a simple answer. Whether they’re reacting to a specific food, something in their environment, or an animal, there’s no one explanation for it.

It can be something in their genetics, a response to their environment, their gut biome, or just plain old bad luck. The “where” doesn’t matter. What does is how you respond to it.

Will they have an allergy forever?

The good part is not every child has their allergies forever. Depending on what they’re allergic to, up to 80% of children can outgrow their condition. Note that this differs from allergy to allergy. The 80% is for milk and egg allergies. For something like peanuts, it’s more like 20%. And shellfish is more like only 5%.

It’s something you will have to monitor. Can you influence the likelihood of them growing out of it? While some theorise that exposure to an allergen early on can help, this is still dangerous to do. If your child has an allergy, talk to a doctor about it for your next steps.

How do I get others to take it seriously?

This is especially concerning for parents of children with food allergies. Ingestion of food they’re allergic to can lead to anaphylaxis, which is potentially fatal. This is incredibly scary, and completely understandable to want everyone else to take it seriously.

The good news is that we’re making strides in people’s perceptions of allergies. With the passing of legislation such as Natasha’s Law, things are getting better. But to combat this in your own life, the best option is to sit down and have an honest conversation. Let people in your life know what an allergy can lead to for your child, and how it will affect them. Be firm, make no compromises, and lay out a plan for how your child should be treated.

What about at school?

At school, this gets harder. They’re out of your hands for around 6 hours of the day, and you can’t change that environment. Again, be open with the school staff and talk to them about their allergy-related rules.

Your child won’t be the only one with an allergy. So, with any sense, the school should already have steps in place. Find out what these are, talk about how they will handle your child, and don’t rest until you feel as comfortable as you need to be.

Do you have any resources?

We’ve been writing articles for our blog for many years. So we’ve built up quite a collection of information you might find helpful. Here are some other blogs on the topic of child food allergies:

If you still have questions after that, talk to an allergy specialist. They’ll be more than happy to put your mind at ease and give you the advice you need.

Talk to our team at Allergy Clinic London if you ever have any concerns. Our experts know what you’re going through and can offer the support you need at a time like this. To find out more, reach out to us on 02031 433 449.

Tips for parents of children with food allergies

13th October 2021

Tips for parents of children with food allergies

Whether you just found out your child has a food allergy or if you’ve known for some time now, you may feel anxious, stressed or worried. But you’re not alone.

5-8% of children in the UK suffer from food allergies. And one recent study showed over 80% of parents face “significant worry” about their child’s food allergy, 42% have post-traumatic stress symptoms, and 39% said they experience moderate to severe anxiety. But no one should have to suffer. So here are three essential tips for parents of children with food allergies.

Speak to other parents whose children have allergies

Part of what can make it so scary as a parent is the feeling you’re on your own. You feel it’s up to you to keep your child safe, and if you’ve never had to deal with allergies before, you might not even know where to begin.

So why not meet up with other parents in person to share your experiences? This can help make you feel less alone and allows the group to support each other. Or you could join a forum or group on social media to find other parents in a similar situation.

Take some time for yourself

Parenting is a stressful, full-time job. And when your child has food allergies, it can be even harder. But it’s important to have time for yourself, free of anxiety, enjoying your favourite activities.

Spend time with friends, go to restaurants you can’t take your child to, and try to unwind. But if you plan on going to a restaurant your child can’t eat at, consult their allergist before to be certain it’s safe.

Try not to be so hard on yourself

People make mistakes. We’re only human. If you accidentally expose your child to an allergen, it isn’t your fault. It’s impossible to remember every single food that may contain an allergen.

Chewing gum, for example, can contain milk, as can margarine, crisps and hotdogs. Allergens are found in more products than you would have guessed. So try to take some of that burden off your shoulders. In a similar vein to the first tip, try to share the responsibility with others. The child’s other parent, your family, a close friend – someone who can work with you.

Having a child with a food allergy isn’t easy. And it’s a constant stress in your life. But there are steps you can take to make it that bit easier and help you realise you aren’t alone.

Does your child suffer from food allergies? Get in touch with the London Allergy and Immunology Centre. Our experts can help you manage your child’s allergies and regain control of your life. Get in touch with us now on 02031 433 449.

The three most common food allergies in babies

24th March 2021

The three most common food allergies in babies

Up to 6 percent of children have some kind of food allergy. That might not sound like a lot, but with 12 million children in the UK, that means 720,000 are allergic to one food or another.

It can be a scary time as a parent. You might feel as if you have to keep your eye on your child at all times. There are plenty of things they might be allergic to, but here are the three most common food allergies in babies.

Cow’s milk (CMA)

A cow’s milk allergy affects up to 7% of babies under one-year-old. Though, according to the NHS, most children outgrow it by the time they’re five. This allergy usually develops when cow’s milk is first introduced into the baby’s diet. CMA symptoms include rashes, coughing, and diarrhoea, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

Eggs

Like CMA, children can grow out of egg allergy. Your baby may have allergic reactions to all eggs (no matter how they’re cooked) or only to raw eggs (found in cake mix and mayonnaise). Symptoms include rashes, hives, and congestion.

Peanuts

1 in 50 children have an allergy to peanuts. But there might be good news on the horizon – peanut allergy numbers seem to be dropping. This is based on changes to child diet guidelines and is based on research that says introducing peanuts at a young age can actually reduce the chances they develop an allergy. Though the researchers do stress that more study is needed before we can truly be sure.

Allergens can be found in the most unusual of places. Did you know traces of egg can be found in vaccines for yellow fever and the flu? This is just one of the reasons it’s so important to know if your baby has any allergies. There are a lot of struggles as a new parent; don’t let trying to figure out your baby’s allergies on your own be one of them. Talk to a doctor today about your children.

At Allergy Clinic London, we believe allergies shouldn’t interrupt your life. To get some expert advice, contact us today on 02031 433 449.

Four facts you should know about allergies in children

3rd March 2021

Four facts you should know about allergies in children

With allergies on the rise, plenty of new parents will worry about their children. And there will always be a small subsection that tells you not to worry, it’s all overblown. People believe that because children can potentially outgrow allergies and because not all allergies are deadly, there’s no real cause for concern. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Allergies can seriously impact people’s lives and can even create lasting damage if untreated. Here are four facts about allergies in children that you should know.

Allergies are on the rise

Allergies are becoming more common. Children are more likely than ever to develop food allergies. Allergies being so common might be part of why people believe concerns are overblown, but there’s no reason to suggest this makes allergies less dangerous.

In fact, one in four with a food allergy, even a mild one, will experience a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.

You don’t always grow out of them

While it’s possible to outgrow allergies, it’s not always the case. Teenagers needing hospital treatment for their allergies went up 65% over 5 years. This statistic highlights the tragic effects allergies can have on young people and why allergies need to be taken seriously.

Allergies can affect children’s quality of life

One study showed that children with hay fever symptoms received lower grades than their peers. Allergies can also affect children’s mental health. Children with food allergies may avoid socialising or food in the future to avoid feeling left out. Allergies can also affect physical health by making asthma and eczema worse.

Allergies can be life-threatening

In severe allergy cases, anaphylaxis can occur. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction. It’s characterised by the tightening of the throat, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, and other terrifying symptoms. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and can be fatal if left untreated.

If you think your child has an allergy, don’t just shrug it off. Allergies can greatly impact your life, worsening existing conditions, affecting mental health, and can also be life-threatening. Allergies need to be addressed to ensure your child has the most comfortable time possible.

If you think your child has an allergy, book them in for a test. Register as a new patient here and book online today or call London Allergy and Immunology Centre 02031 433 449.