In children, food allergy symptoms can show up in many different ways.
Food allergies can contribute to itchy rash (atopic dermatitis),
abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and even ear infections (otitis media).
There are also reactions to food that include symptoms such as a mild tingling in
the mouth or more severe life-threatening food allergy symptoms. In the long run,
research shows that, in children, food allergy can lead to other serious conditions including
allergic rhinitis and asthma.
To see food allergy symptoms, roll your mouse over the picture at right or the terms below.
See all food allergy symptoms
Controlling food allergies has been shown to reduce symptoms.
If you think your child has food allergies, an allergy blood test
can help to specifically identify your child’s food triggers.
Do not try to manage the problem by removing too many foods from the diet.
Allergy experts and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) advise that
kids with possible food allergies should get tested to identify triggers
early in order to reduce symptoms and keep allergies from getting worse.
Complete Food Allergy Symptoms List
Abdominal cramps (colic)—May be a symptom of food allergies in young children; the term colic often refers to the crying and upset that the cramps cause in infants
Chest tightness—A common symptom of asthma; may also signal a potentially serious allergic reaction to food
Congestion—A common symptom of allergic rhinitis; may also be caused by an allergic reaction to food
Constipation—Sometimes caused by food allergies in children
Diarrhea—May be caused by food allergies
Ear pulling—A sign of pain or discomfort from ear infection (otitis media), which can result from underlying allergy to food allergens
Hives—Swollen, red welts or patches on the skin that often result from food allergies
Hoarseness—Sometimes caused by respiratory or food allergies; may indicate reflux, which can also be caused by food allergies in young children
Itchy eyes—A common symptom of allergic rhinitis; may also result from an allergic food reaction
Itchy lips—A symptom of oral allergy syndrome, a mild allergic reaction usually triggered by fresh fruits and vegetables as well as certain pollen (and frequently seen in those with allergic rhinitis)
Itchy roof of the mouth (palate)—A symptom of oral allergy syndrome, a mild allergic reaction usually triggered by fresh fruits, nuts, and vegetables as well as certain pollen (and frequently seen in those with allergic rhinitis)
Itchy throat—A symptom of oral allergy syndrome, a mild allergic reaction usually triggered by fresh fruits, nuts, and vegetables as well as certain pollen (and frequently seen in those with allergic rhinitis)
Itchy tongue—A symptom of oral allergy syndrome, a mild allergic reaction usually triggered by fresh fruits, nuts, and vegetables as well as certain pollen (and frequently seen in those with allergic rhinitis)
Nausea and vomiting—Common symptoms of food allergies
Rash/Hives—A common symptom of atopic dermatitis, an allergic skin condition that often results from allergic sensitivities to food
Reddening of the skin (flushing)—May be caused by an immediate allergic food reaction
Reflux—Return flow of stomach contents to the throat; sometimes a symptom of food allergies in children
Severe symptoms—Swelling of the lips or tongue, sudden and unexplained wheezing, or fainting may result from food allergy. Seek medical attention immediately
Skin itching—A common symptom of atopic dermatitis, an allergic skin condition that often results from sensitivity to food; may also be caused by an immediate food allergy reaction
Skin scratching—May be caused by itching due to food-related atopic dermatitis or an immediate allergic food reaction
Stuffy nose—A common symptom of allergic rhinitis; may also be caused by an allergic reaction to food
Throat tightness—A common symptom of food allergies. Seek medical attention immediately
Watery eyes—A common symptom of allergic rhinitis; may also result from an allergic food reaction
Wheezing—A common symptom of asthma; sudden, unexplained wheezing may also indicate a severe allergic reaction to food
Please note:
- For many of these symptoms, allergies are not the only cause
- It is important to see your doctor to discuss the need for allergy testing in order to determine the true cause of symptoms
