According to La Leche League International (LLLI) one in five children shows signs of an allergy by age 20. Luckily, many infants with food allergies tend to outgrow them by age 3. Cow's milk is the most common allergy in infants. Other allergens (foods that cause allergies) include eggs, wheat, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, corn, pork, tomatoes, onions, cabbage, berries, spices, citrus and chocolate. There is no cure for allergies and treatment requires avoidance of the allergen. Allergy symptoms usually arrive shortly after a food is consumed and can be mild or severe.
Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Common allergy symptoms that affect the intestines and digestion include vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gas, abdominal cramping, bloody stools and colitis, an inflammatory bowel disorder. Food allergies can also cause malabsorption and loss of nutrients which can lead to poor growth in infants.
Respiratory Problems
Food allergy symptoms that affect the respiratory tract include runny and itchy nose, sneezing and coughing, asthma and difficulty breathing, congestion, recurrent nosebleeds and bronchitis. Food allergies can also cause pulmonary disorders which affect the lungs.
Eye Problems
Swollen eyelids, red eyes, dark circles under the eyes, constant tearing and gelatinous fluid in the eyes are all symptoms of a food allergy.
Changes in Skin
Changes in skin can be a sign of a food allergy. Examples include eczema, hives, rash, itching, flushing, loss of color and dermatitis, a type of rash that causes redness, itching and burning. Redness and soreness around the rectum can also occur with a food allergy.
Nervous System Symptoms
Symptoms that affect the nervous system can cause infants to be more fussy and restless. They may also have trouble sleeping and become a light sleeper. On the other hand, some infants with food allergies will experience longer periods of drowsiness.
Additional Symptoms
Other common symptoms of a food allergy in infants include ear infections, hiccups, excessive drooling or sweating, aching muscles, poor weight gain, spots on the tongue and swelling of the lips, throat and tongue.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, swelling of the mouth and throat, a dramatic drop in blood pressure, shock and in some cases death.
