Soy is a product of the soybean, and one of the most common foods that can cause allergic reactions in children. Soy allergy can appear at any age, but it tends to be most common in children who are exposed to soy-based infant formulas. According to the Cleveland Clinic, soybeans are legumes, and a child with a soy allergy can also have an allergic reaction to other members of the legume family, including peanuts, chickpeas and other beans, lentils and licorice.
Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction is the body's response to allergens. Allergens are substances that, in people sensitive to them, are identified as foreign or dangerous by the body's immune system. According to Medline Plus, allergic reactions are common and can range in severity from mild to life-threatening. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, food allergies result from the body's overreaction to exposure of the food, triggered by the presence of a protein called IgE, which regulates the body's allergic response.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a soy allergy can vary. Mild symptoms include hives, itchiness and swelling of the skin. Children can also have vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Respiratory difficulty, cough and shortness of breath can also occur. The severest form of an allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis, happens quickly, with dizziness, difficulty breathing and the feeling that the throat is closing on itself. Lack of oxygen can cause loss of consciousness and, if persistent, can lead to oxygen deprivation of the brain and permanent disability or death.
Treatment
The treatment of an allergic reaction starts by eliminating the exposure to the inciting food. Medical treatment of an allergic reaction includes oxygen, if the child is complaining of shortness of breath; antihistamines, like diphenhydramine, which counteract the action of histamine, the substance that produces the symptoms of allergy, such as hives and itchiness; and steroids to limit the allergic reaction and prevent a recurrence in the future. Epinephrine, administered via injection, is an important medicine to give a child who is having an anaphylactic reaction.
Prevention
If your child exhibits symptoms of allergy to soy, it is important to receive an evaluation by an allergist. Allergy testing can pinpoint the source of the allergic response and whether there is cross-reactivity to other substances or foods. Since soy and other legumes can be present in other foods, it is important to read food labels to assess the presence of these allergens. If eating out, always ask about the presence of soy or soy products used in the cooking process and in menu items.
