It's 9 o'clock at night; you have gone to feed your baby again and notice a rash all over his cheek and wonder, "What could it be from?" The pediatrician's office is closed. He doesn't have a fever, isn't fussy. You haven't changed detergents or lotions. Nothing else has changed that you can think of until you remember: You tried bananas with him at breakfast.
Background Information on Allergies
Allergies are due to the protein in food. Bananas have little protein but can still cause an allergic reaction. According to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, the top eight food allergens are: milk, soy, wheat, egg, peanut, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. Sometimes groups of foods may need to be avoided. Some food allergies may be outgrown by adulthood.
Mild Allergic Reaction Symptoms
Signs of an allergic reaction to a food can occur immediately up to 48 hours after ingestion. Mild symptoms include itching, rash, and hives. These symptoms can occur if the food touches the skin or if ingested. Rashes and hives can occur anywhere on the body.
Severe Allergic Reaction Symptoms
Signs of a severe allergic reaction can include swelling of lips, tongue, eyes. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency in which a person has difficulty breathing and may have swelling of the airway. Treatment for anaphylaxis should be immediate with epinephrine or an EpiPen to reduce swelling, thereby opening the airway and assist with breathing.
Infant Food Introduction
It is important to only introduce one new food every two to three days to babies to help monitor for food allergies. By having a 24- to 48-hour wait period when waiting to introduce a new food, it is easier to determine the food causing the allergic reaction.
Living With Food Allergies
Food allergies can be frightening when the first reaction occurs. You don't know what to do or who to call. When identified early, the allergen causing food can be avoided to prevent further reactions and causes for concern. Vigilant label reading is important to have a healthy, happy infant.
