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Food Allergies in Children

A food allergy is an immune-system reaction to a food. It can cause hives, swelling, vomiting, coughing, wheezing or other symptoms after the food is eaten.

Milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish and sesame are common food allergens. Other foods can also cause allergic reactions.

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AAP Guide to Food Allergies in Children

The AAP guide below explains what an allergic reaction can look like, when epinephrine is needed and how food allergy is evaluated.

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Your child has a suspected food reaction that has not been evaluated.
  • Symptoms happen repeatedly after the same food.
  • Your child needs testing or an updated allergy plan.
  • You have questions about avoiding foods or safely introducing foods.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has trouble breathing, wheezing or sudden throat symptoms after eating.
  • Your child develops significant swelling, collapse or other signs of anaphylaxis.
  • Give prescribed epinephrine immediately for anaphylaxis and call 911.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

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