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A new study conducted by researchers at National Jewish Health found that young children with allergies to milk and egg experience an unexpectedly high number of reactions to these and other foods. The study revealed that over 70 percent of preschool children with documented or suspected food allergies suffered a significant reaction during the three-year period. Researchers also found that caregivers failed to administer the medication, epinephrine, in 70 percent of the severe and potentially life-threatening reactions.

In a news release, David Fleischer, MD, lead author and assistant professor of pediatrics at National Jewish Health, said more precautions need to be taken.

"Our findings clearly point to a need for parents and other caregivers to be even more vigilant in avoiding allergenic foods and treating reactions appropriately," Fleischer said. "They also suggest several strategies that both caregivers and healthcare workers can pursue to make mealtime safe for food-allergic children."

Over a period of three years, researchers closely followed 512 children ages 3 - 15 months. Over the three years, the children experienced 1,171 allergic reactions to food. Of the 512 children enrolled, 28 percent had no allergic reactions, 19 percent had one reaction and 53 percent had more than one reaction.

Eleven percent of the allergic reactions were considered severe and symptoms included swelling in the throat, difficulty breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, dizziness and fainting. Most of the severe reactions were caused by ingestion.

Only 30 percent of the severe reactions were treated with epinephrine, a medication that caregivers can administer to reduce symptoms while waiting for medical care. Reasons for the under treatment included failure to recognize severity of the reaction, not having epinephrine (EpiPen) available, and fears about epinephrine administration.

"It is very important for caregivers of food-allergic children to carry an EpiPen with them at all times, know how to recognize a serious reaction and how to use an EpiPen," said Dan Atkins, MD, co-author and professor of pediatrics at National Jewish Health. "Correctly using an EpiPen at the right time can save a life."

The researchers identified several areas for improved education, including the need for constant vigilance, accurate label reading, avoidance of non-accidental exposure, prevention of cross-contamination, appropriate epinephrine administration, and education of all caretakers.

This research was funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and published in the June 25, 2012, issue of the journal Pediatrics.