Return to Advice

Food Allergies

By: Sonal Shah, M.D.

 
 

 

Food allergies in young children are more common than we think. Up to 6% of young children are allergic to at least one food. Most babies and toddlers who develop food allergies outgrow them as their immune and digestive systems mature, usually by about age 5. Food allergies that develop after age 3 are more likely to persist for life.

A food allergy is the immune system’s reaction to a food that it mistakes for a harmful substance. The most common symptoms include rashes, hives, eczema (dry skin), vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, a child may have extreme difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness. This severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylactic shock, can be fatal without immediate medical intervention.

The main clue that your child may have a food allergy is that symptoms usually show up suddenly and disappear within 24 hours. If symptoms don’t appear within an hour after eating, it’s probably not a food allergy.

The majority of childhood food allergies are caused by cow’s milk, wheat, soy, peanuts, eggs, and tree nuts such as walnuts and almonds. Allergies to fish and shellfish commonly show up in later childhood. That is because these foods are not generally fed to babies and toddlers. Allergies to fish, shellfish, peanuts, and tree nuts are usually lifelong in most cases. Peanuts and tree nuts cause the most severe reactions.

Cow’s milk allergy is the most common food allergy in newborns, so breastfeeding and delaying the introduction of other foods including cow’s milk can prevent this problem.

If you suspect that your child has a food allergy, the first step is to discuss his symptoms with your pediatrician. Your child may be referred to a pediatric allergist for further evaluation if necessary.

There are currently no medications that can be taken before a food is eaten to prevent symptoms. Here are some tips for keeping your child safe from food allergy reactions:

  • Read the nutrition label for ingredients information every time you buy a new food product.
    •

     
  • Use separate utensils to prevent cross-contamination
    •

     
  • Before your child enters a new childcare center or school, inform them about his/her allergies and complete list of foods to avoid.
    •

     
  • Before your child attends a birthday party or other social function, inquire about what foods will be served.
    •

     
  • Teach your child what a food allergy is and why certain foods must be avoided.

    •  

    If your doctor believes there is any risk that your child may have an anaphylactic reaction to a food, he or she will prescribe epinephrine for emergency use. This drug delays a fatal reaction long enough to get your child to the nearest hospital for proper medical treatment.

    A child at risk for anaphylaxis should also wear a medical emergency identification tag at all times. More information about food allergies can be obtained at The Food Allergy Network:

    1-800-929-4040, www.foodallergy.com