Gastrointestinal Allergies in Children

What is a Gastrointestinal Allergy?

Gastrointestinal (GI) allergies occur when the immune system reacts negatively to certain foods, triggering inflammation in the digestive tract. Unlike food intolerances, which only affect digestion, GI allergies involve an immune response that can cause discomfort and more serious health issues.

Common Triggers

The most common food allergens responsible for gastrointestinal allergic reactions in children include:

• Cow’s Milk
• Eggs
• Peanuts
• Tree Nuts
• Soy
• Wheat

Identifying and eliminating trigger foods is essential for managing symptoms and maintaining proper nutrition.

Signs and Symptoms

GI allergy symptoms can vary depending on the child’s age and the severity of their reaction. Symptoms typically appear within minutes to a few hours after eating a trigger food. Watch for:

• Digestive issues – Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, or reflux.
• Chronic symptoms – Poor weight gain, bloating, constipation, or prolonged irritability.
• Delayed allergic reactions – Symptoms such as blood in stools or persistent digestive discomfort, common in non-IgE-mediated allergies.

If your child experiences these symptoms, consult a paediatric allergy specialist for evaluation.

Diagnosing Gastrointestinal Allergies

A proper diagnosis prevents unnecessary food restrictions and ensures effective management. At NMC Royal Hospital, Dubai, we use:

• Detailed Clinical History – Understanding symptoms, diet, and medical background.
• Elimination Diet – Removing suspected allergens to assess symptom relief.
• Oral Food Challenges – The most reliable test, conducted under medical supervision.
• Allergy Testing (IgE & Skin Prick Tests) – Helps confirm IgE-mediated food allergies.

A precise diagnosis ensures safe and effective allergy management without unnecessary dietary restrictions.

Managing Gastrointestinal Allergies

GI allergies can be managed with the right approach. We offer:

• Personalised Diet Plans – Ensuring proper nutrition while avoiding allergens.
• Symptom Management Strategies – Addressing discomfort, reflux, and digestive health.
• Allergy Desensitisation (Oral Immunotherapy) – A potential treatment for some food allergies to build tolerance over time.

Early intervention and expert care significantly improve your child’s health and quality of life.

Why Choose Dr Mahesh Katre in Dubai?

Choosing the right paediatric allergy specialist is crucial. Here’s why families trust me:

• UK-Trained Expertise – Certified paediatric allergy and immunology specialist with world-class UK training, bringing this expertise to Dubai.
• Specialist in Gastrointestinal & Food Allergies – Expertise in managing complex GI allergies, food reactions, and desensitisation treatments.
• Personalised Care – Focused on eliminating symptoms while ensuring proper nutrition.
• Advanced Testing & Treatment – Elimination diets, oral food challenges, and immunotherapy at NMC Royal Hospital, Dubai.
• Trusted by Families in the UAE – Founder of Paediatric Allergy Services, guiding families through expert care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How is a gastrointestinal allergy different from food intolerance?

A GI allergy involves an immune response, causing inflammation and discomfort, while a food intolerance (e.g., lactose intolerance) only affects digestion without immune involvement.

2. Can a child outgrow gastrointestinal allergies?

Yes, some GI allergies, like cow’s milk allergy, may resolve over time, while others, like peanut or tree nut allergies, may persist. Although, oral immunotherapies and other treatment modalities are helping our patients with these. 

3. How can I safely introduce new foods to a child with GI allergies?

Introduce new foods gradually, watch for symptoms, and consult a paediatric allergy specialist before reintroducing previously reactive foods.

📍 Have more questions? Book an appointment with Dr Mahesh Katre at NMC Royal Hospital, Dubai today.