The first symptoms of the food allergy reaction usually appear within a few minutes to 2 hours after eating or touching a food.  

Symptoms can range from mild to severe or even life-threatening.  

You might see only one symptom, or you might see several symptoms at the same time.  

If you have any concerns about your baby’s response to a new food, seek medical attention or call 911 right away. 

 Mild symptoms can include: 

  • Rash or a few hives around the mouth or face. (Hives are red, itchy bumps on the skin.) 
  • Runny nose, sneezing 
  • Mild upset stomach 

 Severe symptoms can include: 

  • Swelling of the lips, face or tongue 
  • Vomiting (throwing up) 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Widespread hives over the body 
  • Wheezing 
  • Repeated coughing 
  • Difficulty breathing; swelling of the throat 
  • Skin color changing to pale or blue 
  • Sudden tiredness or lethargy 
  • Seeming limp 

 For more information on food allergy symptoms, see the handout Is My Baby Having a Food Allergy Reaction?.