A swollen lower lip is usually a symptom of an allergic reaction in the body, according to MayoClinic.com. An allergic reaction is an abnormal immune reaction, which is usually triggered by allergens found in food, fur or pollen. Your child is more likely to develop an allergic reaction because his immune system is not well developed. Certain foods are more likely to cause your child's lips to swell.
Common Food Allergens
If your child has existing food allergies, his lower lip is more likely to swell if he is exposed to common food allergens such as peanuts, milk, eggs, shellfish, soy, wheat, tomatoes and citrus fruits, according to the Food and Allergy Anaphylaxis Network. If you suspect that your child has a food allergy, ask your pediatrician to refer him to an allergy specialist for further testing.
Observe Symptoms
Swollen lips and other symptoms of food allergies are more likely to develop within a few minutes to two hours after exposure to food allergens, according to MayoClinic.com. If you are introducing new food to your child, do not leave the child unattended. Observe the child for food allergy symptoms such as swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, hives, itching,wheezing, difficulties breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and fainting, according to MayoClinic.com. If you notice these symptoms, it is important that you seek immediate medical attention because swelling of the tongue and throat can obstruct the airway and lead to respiratory distress.
Treatment
If the immunologist determines that your child has an allergy toward a particular food, he might advise that you eliminate the food from the child's diet. Eliminating food allergens is the only way to avoid allergic reactions, according to Food and Allergy Anaphylaxis Network. Do not eliminate healthful foods from your child's diet until the allergy specialist has confirmed that your child is allergic to the particular foods. Some children outgrow certain food allergies.
Anaphylaxis
Your child could develop a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis after exposure to common food allergens. Eating even a small amount of the offending food can cause anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include fast heart rate, severe drop in blood pressure, swollen and tight throat, dizziness and fainting, according to MayoClinic.com. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment with adrenaline. Seek immediate medical attention if your child suddenly develops breathing difficulties.
