© uwimages

© uwimages

One in 13 kids is now affected by a food allergy—a 100 percent jump from just 15 years ago—meaning that one or two of the kids in any given setting is allergic. While some have had only mild reactions, such as an itchy mouth, hives, or an upset stomach, 40 percent of allergic kids have had a severe reaction, including life-threatening anaphylaxis, which usually involves symptoms such as a rash, hives, swelling of the lips or tongue, vomiting, abnormal heartbeat, and trouble breathing.

These are things children might do or say if they are experiencing anaphylaxis—which should warrant an injection of epinephrine, if available, and a call to 911—according to experts at the nonprofit Food Allergy Research & Education.

CHILDREN AGE 2 AND UNDER MIGHT…

  • Put their hands in their mouth

  • Pull or scratch their tongue

  • Make a hoarse or squeaky noise

  • Scratch their ears (or behind them)

OLDER KIDS MAY SAY…

  • “My mouth feels funny.”

  • “There’s something stuck in my throat.”

  • “My lips feel tight.”

  • “My tongue is hot (or burning).”

  • “My mouth (or tongue) itches.”

  • “It feels like there’s hair on my tongue.”

  • “It feels like there are bugs in my ears.”

Awareness is the best defense!

Adapted from Parents Magazine, September 2014.