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Food Allergy

Margaret Lubega, MD -  - Pediatrician

First Pediatric Care Center

Margaret Lubega, MD

Pediatrician located in Gastonia, NC

If your child is one of the nearly six million American children who have food allergies, Dr. Margaret Lubega can help. At First Pediatric Care Center in Gastonia, North Carolina, Dr. Lubega offers advanced testing to determine the root cause of your child’s allergies. She also provides effective management resources to help your child avoid food-related triggers and protect their health. Schedule a consultation online or by calling First Pediatric Care Center directly.

Food Allergy Q & A

What is a food allergy?

A food allergy is an overreaction of your child’s immune system as the result of eating a certain food. The body thinks the food is harmful and tries to defend itself, leading to a reaction that can range from mild to life-threatening.

Food allergies are common in young children. In some cases, a child can outgrow the allergy. However, there are some foods, including nuts and fish, that may affect your child’s health for their lifetime.

What are the symptoms of a food allergy?

Your child can experience allergic reaction symptoms that affect their mouth, eyes, lungs, stomach, and skin. In some cases, a food allergy can cause complications in the brain.

Allergy symptoms can be mild to moderate, causing itchy skin and eye redness, In the most serious cases, a food allergy can lead to anaphylaxis.

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that can come on suddenly and involve more than one part of your child’s body. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

  • Throat swelling
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Low blood pressure

This is a dangerous condition that needs immediate medical attention. Without prompt treatment, anaphylaxis can prove fatal.