Food Allergy Checklist for Parents
Food Allergy Checklist for Parents
Food Allergy Checklist for Parents
- Have an action plan. Make sure family, teachers, and other caregivers understand your child's allergy and know what to do in an emergency.
- Be prepared. If your child has serious allergies, you -- and all of your child's caregivers -- need to be ready to use an epinephrine injection, such as Auvi-Q or Epi Pen, for life-threatening symptoms. Have two injections handy at all times. Also, have antihistamines on hand for minor symptoms, such as itching or hives.
- Get a list of triggers. Ask the doctor for a complete list of allergens and how they may be listed on food labels.
- Educate your child. Teach your child about triggers and what foods they're in.
- Read ingredients. Check labels on all food you buy.
- Stick with prepackaged food. Food from salad bars, bakeries, and deli counters may have hidden allergens.
- Be cautious. If you're not sure a food is safe, your child shouldn't eat it.
- Be up front. Tell restaurant staff about your child's allergies before you order or eat.
- Order simple foods. In restaurants, dishes with fewer ingredients may be safer.
- Carry info about the allergy. Carry written material, such as chef cards, you can give to restaurant staff.
- Get ID. For a serious allergy, your child should wear medical ID jewelry such as a bracelet or necklace.
- Act fast. If your child has life-threatening symptoms, use an Auvi-Q or Epi-Pen and get medical help right away.
- Watch for hidden allergens. They can lurk in drugs, soaps, lotions, and other products.
- Keep trigger foods out of reach. Or don't keep them in your house at all.
