Pediatric Food Allergies Specialist in Rochester, NY
It is not uncommon for infants and young children to have some type of food allergy. This chronic condition is believed to affect upward of 5 million kids within the United States.
Not all children will experience an allergic reaction the very first time they consume a particular food. Some may develop an allergy later in life, which is why it is important to tell your doctor if you notice any abnormal symptoms, regardless of your child’s age. The pediatric specialists at Elmwood Pediatrics have extensive experience diagnosing food allergies in children. If you suspect your child may have a food allergy, call our pediatric office in Rochester, NY at 585-244-9720 for an appointment today.
What Are the Signs of a Food Allergy?
Symptoms of a food allergy exist on a spectrum, from very mild to severe. More mild reactions would include hives, while the most severe type of reaction is anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis will occur within moments of ingesting an allergic substance. It will typically cause the throat to swell, making breathing quite difficult. If you see signs of anaphylaxis, call 911.
Children with a food allergy will usually exhibit one or more of the following symptoms during a reaction:
- Swelling of the tongue or throat
- Wheezing
- Hives
- Difficulty swallowing
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Stomach cramping
- A weakened pulse
- Circulatory collapse
Common Food Allergy Triggers
While any food has the potential to cause an allergic reaction, there are nine specific types that are responsible for a majority of pediatric food allergies, including:
- Peanuts
- Eggs
- Milk
- Wheat
- Shellfish
- Tree nuts
- Soy
- Fish
- Seeds (mustard seeds and sesame seeds are among the most common to cause an allergic reaction)
What Should I Do If I Suspect My Child Has a Food Allergy?
The best thing that any parents can do for a child with a food allergy is to seek the advice of a pediatrician or allergist. For more information about this process, or to schedule a consultation for your child with Elmwood Pediatrics, please call 585-244-9720 today.
