In short

  • Reactions usually start within minutes to 2 hours of eating.
  • Mild signs: stop the food and call your pediatrician.
  • Severe signs like swelling or trouble breathing: call 911 right away.

When reactions happen

Allergic reactions usually start within minutes to 2 hours after eating. Knowing the difference between mild and severe symptoms helps you act quickly.

Food allergies can be severe and life-threatening. If your baby has severe eczema, a known food allergy or a family history of allergies, talk to your pediatrician or an allergist before offering major allergens.

Mild symptoms

A few hives or a red rash around the mouth, or mild stomach upset.

  • Stop serving the food and call your pediatrician for advice, including whether to give any medicine.

Severe symptoms (anaphylaxis)

Hives all over; swelling of the lips, face or tongue; wheezing, coughing or trouble breathing or swallowing; repeated vomiting; pale or blue skin; or sudden sleepiness or floppiness.

  • Call 911 right away. Use epinephrine if your baby has been prescribed it.

Log it

Note what your baby ate, how much and what happened in the app’s food diary, and share it with your pediatrician.

Sources

All articles, recipes, guides, tips and chat answers in Mama & Baby Bites are for general information and education only. They are not medical, pediatric or nutritional advice, and they don't replace care from a qualified professional. In an emergency, call 911.