At what point would you see an allergist?

[undecidedowl]

DS2 has gotten a skin rash from about 1/3 of the foods we have given him so far (things like avocado, zucchini, banana, peach, and most recently corn.) Last time we talked to the pedi they said they usually only refer people to an allergist if they can't get the reactions under control. His skin is fine because we introduce foods so slowly and stop as soon as we see a rash. But, I hate that he is 8 months old and only has like 8 foods he can eat.

Would you listen to the pedi and wait or go see an allergist? 

[sarahsas]

I'd see an allergist too. One other thing to consider - are you feeding organic? This may sound strange, but for a long time I thought I was allergic to apples. I always had a reaction. I talked to my doctor about it and he said that the pesticides they use can also cause this. I switched and no more problems. Just wanted to throw that out there as a possibility. Still would make a doctor appt though!

[Deleted]

I'd definitely go to an allergist.

[undecidedowl]

Thanks, guys. My gut feeling was that we should go to an allergist.

sarahsas and pennypenny we don't eat organic, but it's definitely worth a shot. I know I have had few reactions that may have been from preservatives so I could see how pesticides could do the same.

[timorousbeastie]

We saw an allergist for DD when she was 15 months because she got a rash on her face a few hours after she ate bananas or kiwis. Both the skin test and blood test came back negative, so the plan is to give her some time then we'll try the foods again to see if she still gets the rash.

[Deleted]

I'd see an allergist. But, I will say, oftentimes kids that young can get a false positive on allergy testing which is why they often like to delay it. That said, I wold still see one. Id want to try and figure out what is going on even if you get a flase positive and reintroduce later.

I also would try organic to see if it's the pesticides. If it's just a skin reaction you are seeing that can often be the case. Although with banana and avocado that's less likely. Also, as I'm typing this I should say banana and avocado are allergies often seen together (like milk and soy) so given that, yes, I'd definitely see an allergist.

[barefootcontessa]

I assume that the rash is his only symptom -- no respiratory effects or stomach issues. If so, I think I would wait if the skin is under control but keep a food diary, given how young your child (my understanding is that the tests are not as accurate with children under a year). My daughter had uncontrolled eczema that we could not get under control (despite elimination diets) because she is allergic to several foods, including both wheat and dairy. She was about 18 months at the time and the allergist said the only way to really know if the tests are accurate is to eliminate the food and then food challenge -- which is essentially what you are doing.

[thejackpot]

Agree with pp that lo's age may inhibit accurate test results. Def worth contacting an allergist but be prepared for no easy/quick answers. GL

[Deleted]

As soon as possible. 

DS was tested at 9 months and I will do it sooner with #2 if I have any suspicions.