We all know how frustrating a food allergy can be at times. When it comes to babies, it can be more problematic than in the case of adults. Around 6% of children between 0 and 2 years of age are affected by food allergies, according to The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Moreover, the CDC states that one in every 13 children in the United states suffer from food allergies. In this article, we will discuss babies food allergy treatment in Novi, MI.
What is a Food Allergy?
A food allergy is when the body reacts abnormally to a certain food item. Several foods are known to be the most common causes of food allergies. These are:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Peanuts
- Wheat
- Fish
- Tree nuts
- Soy
- Shellfish
When a child with a food allergy consumes the food they’re allergic to, it triggers an overreaction of the immune system. This can lead to one or a combination of symptoms. When it comes to babies and young children, vomiting and hives (red raised bumps) are the most common symptoms of a food allergic reaction.
Other mild to moderate symptoms of a food allergic reaction include:
- Tingling or itchiness of the throat and mouth.
- Swelling of the lips, eyes and face
- Stomach ache
- Congestion, sneezing, or runny nose
- Dry cough
In some cases, a child can witness severe symptoms of a food allergic reaction that involve more than one organ system. This reaction is called anaphylaxis, and it can be life-threatening.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include:
- Changes in mood, including fussy, cranky or inconsolable behaviour
- Loose stools or stomach problems
- Scratching the skin
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Lethargy
- Wheezing
- Dizziness or fainting
What Do You Do If Your Baby Has A Food Allergy?
Managing food allergies is easier in case of adults when compared to infants. As babies tend to chew anything that is near them, it is important for the parents to understand their child’s allergy in order to control it properly. Additionally, it is important to treat every reaction seriously as even a mild reaction can develop into anaphylaxis. When your toddler experiences any of the above mentioned symptoms on exposure to certain foods, the first step is to get a trustworthy diagnosis. An allergist can be your best resource in this case as they would guide you on how to manage your child’s allergy. Without the advice of a doctor, restricting your toddler’s diet can be risky as they would grow up to have a narrower range of food choices.
What to expect from an allergist?
The allergist can run some tests for diagnosis, which can include skin tests or blood tests. On diagnosis of a food allergy, the allergist will create a treatment plan.
In case of food allergies, treatment involves avoiding the allergen and the foods that contain it. You will have to check the labels on food products to ascertain that they don’t contain the allergen.
In case the food allergy is confirmed the doctor may advise the child to carry an epinephrine auto-injector to be prepared for potential emergencies. Based on the individual case of your child’s allergic reaction, the doctor may prescribe other treatment methods.
Thus, it is imperative to consult an allergist when you identify any symptom of a food allergy in your child. To avail food allergy treatment for babies in Novi MI, contact us at The Allergy Suite. Our experts would be happy to help you navigate your little one’s allergy and manage it in the best possible way.
