One in every five people, including adults and children, has allergies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. An allergy occurs when your body's immune system negatively reacts to an element in the environment. Allergens can include dust, pollen, animal dander and food. When testing a toddler for food allergies, the most common foods to test first are milk, nuts, peanuts, soybeans, wheat, eggs, corn and shellfish.
Allergy Symptoms
If your toddler has a food allergy, in many cases, her immune system will produce an antibody that detects the trigger food and releases histamines to fight it. She will most likely exhibit physical symptoms such as hives, a runny nose or watery eyes. She may struggle to breathe. These symptoms can be life threatening. Other symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea or dry skin patches called eczema. Your child might not show symptoms the first time she eats a food to which she is allergic. Allergic reactions can develop over time.
Allergy Testing
Contact your child's physician if you suspect he has a food allergy. His physician will complete a family medical history to determine if your child is genetically predisposed to allergies. He will also conduct a physical exam and refer you to an allergist who will test for sensitivities to allergens. Allergy tests include skin tests, blood tests and elimination diets. Elimination diets are used when the allergen in question is likely food. Your physician will create a diet that eliminates foods that may cause allergic reactions. The main culprits usually are milk, eggs, wheat, soybeans, nuts, peanuts, corn and shellfish. You will slowly add these foods back into your child's diet in small amounts. If you notice an allergic reaction, you can pinpoint which food caused the reaction.
Allergy Treatment
The safest way to avoid an allergic reaction to a food is to avoid that food. It can be difficult, though, as some foods are hidden ingredients in other foods. A nutritionist can work with you and your child to teach you how to identify troublesome foods and safe foods. Toddlers who are sensitive to specific foods can have allergic reactions by simply touching objects or people who have been exposed to the foods in question.
The Future
Some children outgrow allergies. Many youngsters allergic to wheat and soy will outgrow that allergy by the time they are school age. Some children also outgrow peanut allergies. Allergies to milk and eggs may stay with your child longer, but aren't necessarily permanent. Work with a physician as your child matures to determine if her allergies persist. Don't test for allergic reactions on your own.
