Pea (Pisum sativum) is a nutrient-rich food with several varieties; yellow and green peas are the most commonly consumed. So, if you plan to feed peas to your baby, here’s all you need to know about pea allergy in babies to help you stay informed. Generally, allergies towards peas are uncommon, but the cross-reactivity between peas and peanuts or other legumes like beans and lentils can occur. So, keep reading to know in detail about pea allergy, its symptoms, diagnosis, and effective treatment for babies.
Can Babies Be Allergic To Peas?
Babies can be allergic to peas, especially if they have shown symptoms of allergy for other legumes. Legumes are a family of foods that includes peas, peanuts, beans, and lentils (1). A research study published in the Journal of American Academy of Pediatrics showed that a high degree of cross-reactivity existed between lentils, chickpea, and peas (2). Besides, pea allergy can also occur due to the IgE-mediated (antibody-mediated) cross-reactivity between pea and peanuts (3). There is a chance for a baby to outgrow pea allergy over a period. But it is good to consult a doctor before introducing peas to a baby and always follow three-day pattern when you introduce pea or any new food into the weaning diet
What Are The Symptoms Of Pea Allergy In Babies?
The symptoms of pea allergy vary among babies. For some, the symptoms could be mild, while for others, they could be serious. Below is the list of mild symptoms (1)(4). Severe symptoms could be as follows: It is best to seek medical assistance irrespective of mild or serious symptoms of allergy. Timely action could avoid complications, and also help in diagnosis.
How Is Pea Allergy In Babies Diagnosed?
Below are some diagnosis methods that are likely to be used by the doctor (5). A skin prick test can provide an accurate diagnosis of suspected allergen, but the test might not be performed on infants due to the risk of causing a severe allergic reaction. If the diagnostic steps consistently raise suspicion towards peas in the baby’s diet, then a pea allergy is confirmed.
How To Manage Pea Allergy In Babies?
The management of pea allergy involves reducing the intensity of the symptoms. Below are some medicines that can help provide relief from the symptoms of pea allergy (6). Never give any allergy medicine to the baby without a doctor’s recommendation. The doctor will suggest the medicines after taking into consideration the baby’s age, the severity of the symptoms, and general health. In severe cases of allergy, the doctor might suggest extensive treatment methods such as immunotherapy (7). Treatment will provide relief to your baby. However, precautions will help prevent a recurrence.
How To Prevent Pea Allergy In Babies?
The following precautionary measures can help the baby avoid the symptoms of pea allergy (7)(8).
