Food allergies can be tricky to diagnose.
Although many people suspect that their child is allergic to certain foods, only 10 to 12 percent of toddlers between the ages of 12 and 18 months actually have a true food allergy, and this number falls to about 8 percent by the age of 3. The first sign of food allergies for many of these children is chronic atopic dermatitis or eczema . These dry, scaly patches of skin usually show up on the face, kneecaps, and elbows. This process is what triggers the symptoms above. If your child ever seems to be having trouble breathing or has passed out after eating, call 911 right away.