The Signs & Symptoms of Baby Food Allergies

Over the years, more and more children have been developing food allergies. Although no one knows exactly why this is happening, some people attribute it to genetically modified crops, which are used to make fruits, vegetables and grains grow at a faster pace. There are several other theories as to why some children can't tolerate certain foods, but one thing that is known for sure is that allergies can be a daily nuisance and even life-threatening in some cases. Babies and children are most commonly allergic to nuts, dairy and certain types of fruits, including strawberries. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of food allergies so that you are aware of what items to avoid giving your baby.

  1. Hives and Rashes

    • If a child is allergic to a specific type of food, she may develop a rash or hives after consuming it. Hives, also known as urticaria, present with red, raised and itchy bumps. Food allergies can trigger the body to release histamines, which result in skin rashes and hives. If you suspect that a baby is allergic to a certain type of food, stop feeding it to her and see if the hives disappear.

    Swelling

    • A common symptom of food allergies is swelling. If a baby has consumed a food that he is allergic to, his eyelids, lips, face, tongue or any other body part may start to swell. In a case of severe swelling, a baby's throat may swell, making it difficult to breathe-- this is an emergency situation.

    Nausea and Vomiting

    • Food allergies may promote nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps in babies. If a baby begins vomiting after eating a new food, make sure that she doesn't get dehydrated.

    Wheezing and difficulty breathing

    • Allergic reactions may cause hives to form on the inside of a baby's throat, making it scratchy and restricting the airway. Difficulty swallowing is another symptom to watch for.

    Crying and general discomfort

    • If a baby is crying or appears to be uncomfortable after a meal, food allergies may be the culprit. Pay attention to any unusual behaviors, such as prolonged crankiness and the pulling of any body parts, such as legs, arms or ears.

    Anaphylaxis

    • The most severe symptom to a food allergy is anaphylaxis, or a whole-body reaction. If a baby is extremely allergic to a certain type of food, it may go into shock, resulting in the loss of consciousness and, if not treated promptly, death. The foods most associated with anaphylactic shock are nuts, seafood, milk and eggs.

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