Ever wonder why some packaged foods include the warning “made in a facility that processes nuts?” There’s a very good reason—some people can develop a life-threatening allergic reaction to eating tree nuts called anaphylaxis.

According to a recent study by Northwestern University, 8% of all children have a food allergy. But knowing how to protect children at risk and how to establish policies that guide school staff can be challenging. Thomas Smith, MD, and John Villacis, MD, both board-certified allergists at The Austin Diagnostic Clinic (ADC), are available to help school administrators and personnel form policies that best protect students.

Remember to refill your child’s Epipen before school begins. ADC Allergy can help – call 901-4002.

ADC Allergist Dr. Tom Smith spoke on KVUE’s weekend morning show to talk about anaphylaxis. He explained the symptoms, risk factors and emergency treatment options.

Many of the approximately 1,500 deaths in the US each year due to anaphylaxis, a sudden allergic reaction, could be prevented if more people knew the symptoms and the immediate treatment needed to survive.