Food allergies are a danger to children who experience them because they can cause severe and even deadly reactions. And peanut allergies are particularly potent, so much so that many schools are declaring themselves to be peanut free. But will this approach work or do parents need to rely on old-fashioned food allergy treatment methods to avoid this issue?

Peanut Allergies Have Risen Heavily

Peanut allergies are one of the most common types of food allergies and an issue that has become particularly prominent in recent years. For example, one study found that the rate of peanut allergies tripled between 1997 and 2008, particularly in the child population. Unfortunately, this means that children are likely more at risk of experiencing these dangerous reactions.

As a result, many school districts are taking the pro-active approach of banning peanuts on their property. This approach was reported by FARE or Food Allergy Research and Education group as being a voluntary choice that any school can take. The benefits are obvious, as a child who has no access to peanuts cannot have an allergic reaction. But the downsides of this approach may be too high.

Peanut-Free Schools May Not Work

While a peanut-free approach works in theory, some are questioning whether this approach is appropriate and measured of it is too stringent and narrow. For example, a group studying this phenomenon quoted a situation in which a school bus was evacuated after a peanut was found on the bus.

Unfortunately, this all-or-nothing approach to peanut allergies does nothing to educate a child on the importance of food allergy control and inspires nothing but fear. Even worse, children who don't have allergies may be afraid to eat peanuts simply because they are banned in their school. Therefore, a more reasonable and educated approach may be necessary from parents.

Parental Preparedness Is Crucial

Parents concerned about their child suddenly developing peanut allergies – a reality that can occur in just about every age – need to take steps to prepare for this eventuality and to help their child understand their treatment. For example, a food allergy test will help parents gauge whether or not a child has an unknown allergy, such as one to peanuts.

If a parent finds that their child suffers from a peanut allergy or is at risk of developing one, they need to talk with a food allergy specialist to educate the child on proper treatment methods. A child must know what foods contain peanuts, how to ask people if foods have peanuts in them, and to know how to read labels to learn whether or not food was exposed to peanuts while being packaged.

By following these steps, parents can help their child overcome the potential danger of a peanut allergy and live a life free from this issue. So make sure to set up appointments with a food allergy treatment specialist right away to learn more.