Coping with Food Allergies

If you think you or your child has a food allergy, it is important to find out. Symptoms may seem like they do not hurt. But a bad reaction could kill your child. 

Common allergy symptoms

Over-the-counter treatments can ease these symptoms:

• Hives, swelling, or a rash.

• Itchy, scaly, red skin.

• Stuffy nose or sneezing.

• Itchy eyes or watery eyes. 

More serious symptoms

Call 911 if a person with an allergy has any of these symptoms:

• Trouble breathing.

• Severe coughing or wheezing.

• Lump in the throat.

• Hoarse voice.

• Severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, or throwing up.

• Swelling in the tongue or throat.

• Tingling feeling in hands, feet, or scalp.

Keystone Mercy Health Plan has a Nurse Call Line that is there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you have questions about symptoms and your doctor is not available, please call 1-866-431-1514. The nurse can help you answer questions. Please remember that the Nurse Call Line does not take the place of your doctor. Always follow-up with the doctor.