Allergies in Infants: Symptoms, Testing, and Dietary Tips - Pediatrics

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Understanding allergies in infants is crucial, especially as they begin to explore new foods. Your baby’s reactions to the new foods you introduced are concerning and suggest a possible food allergy. The symptoms you described—redness and swelling around the lips and eyes, vomiting, and hoarseness—are common signs of an allergic reaction. In infants, these reactions can occur rapidly after exposure to an allergen, and they can range from mild to severe.


Symptoms of Food Allergies in Infants
Food allergies can manifest in several ways, including:
1. Skin Reactions: Hives, eczema, or swelling, particularly around the face and mouth.

2. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

3. Respiratory Issues: Nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, or hoarseness.

4. Anaphylaxis: A severe, potentially life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, rapid heartbeat, and a drop in blood pressure.

Given your baby’s symptoms, it is essential to consult a pediatrician or an allergist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend allergy testing, which can include skin prick tests or blood tests to identify specific allergens.


Allergy Testing
In Taichung City, you can seek allergy testing at various hospitals and clinics. Major hospitals often have pediatric allergy specialists. Some well-known hospitals include:
- Taichung Veterans General Hospital
- China Medical University Hospital
- Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare
It’s advisable to call ahead and inquire about their allergy testing services, especially for infants.


Dietary Considerations
If your baby is diagnosed with a food allergy, it’s crucial to avoid the identified allergens. In the case of dairy allergies, you might be concerned about calcium intake. While breast milk is an excellent source of nutrition, including calcium, if your baby cannot consume dairy, you can consider the following alternatives:
1. Fortified Non-Dairy Milk: Options like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can be fortified with calcium and vitamin D. However, ensure they are suitable for infants and do not contain allergens.

2. Leafy Greens: Foods like kale and broccoli are good sources of calcium.

3. Tofu: If your baby is not allergic to soy, tofu can be a great source of calcium.

4. Fish: Canned sardines and salmon (with bones) are rich in calcium.

5. Calcium-Fortified Foods: Some cereals and juices are fortified with calcium.

Always consult with your pediatrician or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your baby’s diet, especially if allergies are involved.


Conclusion
In summary, your baby’s symptoms after introducing new foods are concerning and warrant further investigation. Allergy testing is essential to identify any food allergies, and you can find appropriate facilities in Taichung City. Additionally, if dairy is an allergen, there are various ways to ensure your baby receives adequate calcium from alternative sources. Always prioritize safety and consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice tailored to your baby’s needs.