“These allergies usually develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. That is to say, if parents or siblings have an allergy to a food, the child can develop it, but not necessarily to that same food or have the same symptoms,” says Dr. Erick Olivera, pediatrician and emergency physician at our clinic, who explains which foods usually trigger allergic reactions and what symptoms your children can present.

Why do food allergies occur?

Food allergies occur when the immune system identifies the protein in a food as a threat and overreacts to protect the body.

Which foods usually cause allergies?

We can mention: milk, eggs, peanuts, nuts, wheat, soy, white or blue fish and seafood.

What symptoms can we notice in our children in the event of food allergy reactions?

• Itching in the throat or mouth
• Red spots or hives on the skin
• Swelling of the face, tongue, eyes, and even throat
• Shortness of breath or a tight feeling in the chest
• Abdominal pain accompanied by nausea, diarrhea and vomiting

Our specialist recommends:

• In the event of any of the symptoms described above, you should immediately take your child to a medical center, as anaphylactic shock (cardiovascular involvement with a drop in blood pressure) may occur, which can be fatal.
• Avoid provoking nausea or self-medication. We must keep calm and transmit it to the child.

Dr. Erick Olivera
Pediatrician and emergency physician at Clínica Ricardo Palma