Psychosocial issues and quality of life associated with food allergy

Abstract

The day-to-day challenges involved in caring for a child with food allergies can be a significant stress within a family. As the child with a food allergy grows up, developmental changes as well as external influences such as bullying and peer pressure can further influence these stressors. When the child with a food allergy is young, the family may be limited on where they can vacation or go out to restaurants, which can cause tension and frustration within the family. Hypervigilance and fear of accidental exposure to the allergen takes an emotional and physical toll on the child with a food allergy and the child’s family. Socially, children with a food allergy may have to limit participation in school events, parties, or camps. These limitations can cause feelings of isolation for the child and feelings of guilt for the parents. As the child becomes an adolescent and young adult (AYA), increased autonomy of dining options and a desire to fit in with peers can trigger higher risk-taking behavior, which can be a source of anxiety for the AYA as well as the caregivers. The aim of this review was to describe potential negative psychosocial impacts of having a food allergy for the family. Data were reviewed from a literature search of medical literature data bases between 2010 and 2020 by using the search terms “food allergy,” “psychosocial,” “anxiety,” and” quality of life.” As we better recognize the psychosocial issues associated with food allergies, we will have a better ability to develop effective interventions to improve the quality of life for these families.

Clearing Up the Mystery of Food Allergies

“…Consumer information from organizations that are committed to providing evidence-based resources are also available from organizations such as the Food Allergy Research and Education; US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; and Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Connection Team 43,47–50 . Quality of life is reported to be lower among food-allergic populations in different ways for adults, children, and caregivers of children as well as their families 11 . Community support groups can be an excellent way to meet other individuals with food allergy or caregivers of children with food allergy, which may positively impact quality of life.…”

“…• harm an individual's relationship with food, and • inhibit children from developing a positive relationship with food. 11 Many people self-diagnose food allergies and intolerances that may lead to unnecessary food avoidance. 12,13 However, self-diagnosis can be a very risky practice.…”

“…43,[47][48][49][50] Quality of life is reported to be lower among food-allergic populations in different ways for adults, children, and caregivers of children as well as their families. 11 Community support groups can be an excellent way to meet other individuals with food allergy or caregivers of children with food allergy, which may positively impact quality of life.…”

Immunoglobulin E–Mediated Food Allergies

“…IgE-mediated food allergy is a chronic health condition that is known to be associated with increased stress and anxiety among patients and caregivers 8,17,48 . A balance must be struck between participating in social life and maintaining vigilance in constant allergen avoidance.…”

“…IgE-mediated food allergy is a chronic health condition that is known to be associated with increased stress and anxiety among patients and caregivers. 8,17,48 A balance must be struck between participating in social life and maintaining vigilance in constant allergen avoidance. New mental health resources, including a growing body of food allergyeducated mental health professionals and support groups, are available to support patients and caregivers (Table 5).…”