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First Food Fights
Could Your Baby Have a Food Allergy?
By Alexandria Powell
der than you think. "It's very difficult, especially out in public, when little children are interacting together," says Indorato. It's easy for babies to grab someone else's cup or bottle. If your child is allergic to milk and her little playmate has it dripping down his chin, a simple kiss could be dangerous.
Education is key to preventing exposure to allergens. "One of the things I think is really important is for parents to be able to identify when their child is having an allergic reaction," says Dr. Healy. Parents should learn the symptoms of a reaction and know what to do if a reaction occurs. Some symptoms of a reaction include hives, wheezing, vomiting and diarrhea.
Your pediatrician or allergist will probably recommend that you carry an emergency kit containing a self-injectable epinephrine "pen" and your child's other medicines. As your baby gets older and spends more time away from you, a medic alert bracelet may be advised.
Finally, it's important to remember that it's not just parents that need to be informed about your child's food allergies. Grandparents, babysitters and anyone involved with the care of the child need to understand what food allergies are and how to keep baby safe. "It's not only that these kids will break out in rashes," says Dr. Healy. "These are potentially life-threatening reactions they are having. I think it's so important for everyone just to be on the same page."
Godwin's daughter is now 3, and her son is 16 months. Both are doing well. "It takes a lot of patience, preparation and research to live each day," says Godwin. "But we manage, and we take each day as it comes."
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