Multiple food allergy (MFA) symptoms can be very similar to those of other illnesses or conditions. Understanding the signs of an allergic reaction is the first step. Learn more about the key allergy symptoms and what to do if you suspect your child has a food allergy.
The signs and symptoms of a food allergy reaction vary depending on the individual’s specific allergies. However, the most common food allergy symptoms include:
These symptoms of a food allergy can appear immediately, or several hours or even days after your child eats the food that causes the allergy. The symptoms are caused by the immune system treating the food allergen in the body as a dangerous invader, setting off a reaction.
It can be hard to diagnose MFA as the symptoms may resemble those of many other conditions and illnesses.
A food allergy rash is one of the most visible signs of an allergic reaction to food. It can appear as hives (raised, itchy red welts) or a flare-up of eczema. These skin reactions often occur shortly after eating a certain food.
Besides skin issues, other common reactions involve the digestive system, with symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Respiratory signs such as wheezing can also occur. A tingling or itching in the mouth and throat is also a common symptom, sometimes identified as oral allergy syndrome, which is often a reaction to raw fruits and vegetables in people with pollen allergies. Common food allergens like those in milk, eggs, and peanuts are frequent culprits.
It can be hard to diagnose MFA as the symptoms may resemble those of many other conditions and illnesses.
It can be difficult to tell the difference between food intolerance and a true food allergy. Here is a simple explanation.
A food intolerance is the inability to digest or absorb certain foods. For example, someone with lactose intolerance does not have enough of the enzyme lactase to break down the sugar (lactose) found in dairy products.
Symptoms of intolerance may include intestinal gas, painful abdominal cramping, or diarrhea. While the symptoms of a food intolerance may cause discomfort and even pain, they are generally not life-threatening.
A food allergy is an immune response to a protein in a food. Even a tiny amount of the food can potentially trigger a reaction to food ranging from a tingling or itching sensation, all the way to setting off a severe allergic reaction. Individuals with food allergies are diagnosed by a doctor and need to eliminate all identified food allergens from their diet to alleviate the symptoms associated with them.
If your child shows any symptoms of a food allergy after eating a particular food, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional. This is especially critical if the reaction to food is severe.
Seek immediate medical help if you notice any severe symptoms or signs of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include difficulty breathing, swelling of the mouth and throat, a rapid drop in blood pressure, or loss of consciousness. Proper allergy testing, which may include a skin prick test, blood test, or an oral food challenge, is the only way to accurately diagnose food allergies.
Never try to diagnose a food allergy on your own. Consult with a pediatrician or allergist to get a clear diagnosis and a safe management plan for your child’s food allergy. Contact us to learn more about our nutritional solutions.
As symptoms can be common with other conditions, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to diagnose food allergies and identify the allergens.
A MFA diagnosis can hold its share of burden, be it physical, psychological or even financial. Managing when a child has a food allergy is a journey, and Nutricia products are there to help.
Symptoms of food allergies may be immediate or may take several hours or even several days to appear, and result from the immune system treating the offending foods as dangerous invaders. Food allergies may cause a range of signs and symptoms, of varying severity. Your child will have gone through moments of discomfort, but with your help, these will likely diminish over time.
The allergic symptoms of a child can have numerous impacts on the family. Depending on the severity of the food allergies, quality of life can be drastically affected:
Nutricia products may help provide peace of mind and practicality for families having to face MFA. However, because of how these specialized formulas are manufactured and processed from free amino acids, they are generally more expensive. This can have a financial impact on some families. Several provinces offer reimbursement programs. Visit this page to find out if you are eligible for reimbursement.
Neocate® is a family of hypoallergenic, amino acid-based specialized formulas for use under medical supervision and is indicated for cow milk allergy, multiple food allergies and related GI and allergic conditions. Talk to your healthcare provider about product recommendations.
Neocate Nutra is suitable for use in children and infants older than 6 months of age (not suitable as sole source of nutrition). Neocate Nutra is not intended for bottle or tube feeding.
Reagan suffered from reflux and was quite a fussy eater. When finally, the doctor suggested switching to an amino acid-based formula. Within days her colic and her reflux improved. I was finally able to enjoy her and bond with her and I got my confidence back.*
*Individual results may vary.
**A patient’s story from the US
**Reagan’s Mom is an employee at Nutricia North America
I was so thankful for sticking with the Neocate. He was drinking more than ever, was happy as could be and all the blood in the stool had Improved! He is now about to turn one and continues to do so great!*
*Individual results may vary.
**A patient’s story from the US
**Ryder’s Mom is an employee at Nutricia North America
