by Lori Chodash, APRN, PMHNP-BC, PNP-PC
Food allergies can be life-altering, but with the right information and preparation, they don’t
have to control your life. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or are looking for ways to
better support a child or loved one with a food allergy, staying informed is key to safety and
peace of mind
What Is a Food Allergy?
A food allergy happens when your immune system mistakenly reacts to a protein in food as if it
were harmful. Even a small amount of the allergen can trigger symptoms, which can range from
mild to life-threatening
Common food allergens include:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, cashews, walnuts)
- Soy
- Wheat
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Sesame (now one of the top 9 allergens in the U.S.)
Recognizing Symptoms of a Food Allergy
Reactions can vary by person and even by exposure. Symptoms may appear within minutes or up
to two hours after eating the allergen and can include:
- Hives or skin rash
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dizziness or fainting
In severe cases, a person may experience anaphylaxis — a life-threatening reaction that requires
immediate treatment with epinephrine and emergency medical care.
How to Manage Food Allergies Safely
- Get Diagnosed
If you suspect a food allergy, consult an allergist. Testing may include skin prick tests,
blood tests, or supervised oral food challenges. - Avoid the Allergen
Once diagnosed, strict avoidance is the best form of prevention. Learn how to read food
labels carefully — even trace amounts can cause a reaction. - Create an Allergy Action Plan
Your allergist can help you develop a personalized plan that outlines:
a. What symptoms to watch for
b. When and how to use epinephrine
c. When to call 911
Share this plan with schools, caregivers, and family members. - Always Carry Epinephrine
Epinephrine is the only first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Carry your auto-injector
(like EpiPen or Auvi-Q) or a needle-free nasal spray (like Neffy, for those eligible) at all
times. - Wear Medical ID
Consider a medical alert bracelet that identifies your allergy in an emergency. - Practice Safe Eating
a. When dining out, inform your server or chef about your allergy clearly.
b. Avoid shared kitchen items or buffets where cross-contact is a risk.
c. Be cautious with baked goods, sauces, and processed foods
Helping Kids Manage Food Allergies
If your child has a food allergy:
- Teach them how to speak up about their allergy
- Practice reading labels together
- Work with schools to ensure they’re allergy-aware and equipped with emergency
medications - Build confidence through role-playing and education
Food Allergy Doesn’t Have to Hold You Back
Living with food allergies takes planning, but it doesn’t mean giving up on enjoying life. With
awareness, preparation, and support, you or your loved one can stay safe and thrive.
Need help managing your food allergy or setting up an emergency plan?
Contact BayWay Allergy to schedule a consultation or food allergy testing