Food allergies, though not common, occur in up to two percent of children and infants. The most common foods that cause food allergy are:
- Egg whites
- Milk
- Nuts
- Wheat
- Soy
- Seafood
- Poultry
- Corn
- Chocolate
Food allergy is the result of the body's production of antibodies, which react to the components of the offending food. As a result, the body releases certain chemicals that cause the allergic symptoms. The presentation of food allergy can be quite variable and can range from mild to life threatening. These symptoms include
- Vomiting/nausea/indigestion
- Stomach cramps/bloating
- Diarrhea
- Hives/skin rash
- Swelling/flushing
- Asthma/wheezing
- Other allergic symptoms (congestion, sneezing, coughing)
- In rare cases, anaphylaxis
Making the diagnosis of food allergy can be very difficult as the symptoms are nonspecific and can be caused by many other etiologies and disorders. If your practitioner is concerned about food allergy, they will discuss possible options. An allergy referral might also be discussed as an allergist has several options to discuss including
- An elimination diet - placing your child on a strict diet until symptoms clear. Then, foods are slowly added back into the diet until symptoms return.
- Skin tests - putting extracts of specific foods under the skin and observing for a reaction. Though a good test for airborn allergens, the validity for food allergy is very controversial.
- Blood tests - testing your child's blood by mixing it with specific food extracts. The process of testing is not very reliable and interpretation of the results can be variable.
After particular foods are identified, you will need to remove these foods completely from your child's diet.
If you have other questions or concerns, please discuss them with your child's practitioner.
You should seek medical attention IMMEDIATELY if your child has symptoms of anaphylaxis, including:
- Loss of consciousness
- Swelling of the throat, tongue or nose
- Difficulty breathing
- Sudden drop in blood pressure
- Flushing - turning red
References:
American Academy of Pediatrics and American College of Allergy, Asthma,
& Immunology
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