DOCTOR APPOINTMENTS

Get prepared to meet with your child’s specialty healthcare provider.

In a doctor’s office, a doctor is listening to a baby girl’s heart with a stethoscope. The girl is wearing a yellow dress.
In a doctor’s office, a doctor is listening to a baby girl’s heart with a stethoscope. The girl is wearing a yellow dress.
In a doctor’s office, a doctor is listening to a baby girl’s heart with a stethoscope. The girl is wearing a yellow dress.

New to Food Allergies or GI Disorders? 

If you suspect your child is experiencing food allergies or a GI condition, consult with your child's physician. See tips for what information to bring to the visits, as well as some common symptoms of food allergies.

Doctor Visit Preparation Tips

Before an appointment:

  • Review your child's medication record.
  • Write down any concerns, including a specific description of your child's symptoms, date of onset, any actions taken to manage them, and any changes in symptoms you noticed.

 

During the appointment:

  • Take notes and don't hesitate to ask questions.
  • Talk to your child's doctor about any dietary changes that may be necessary to meet your child's nutrition needs.
  • If the doctor recommends formula, ask where you can purchase it and if there are insurance coverage options.
  • Ask about next steps and follow-up.

 

After the visit:

  • Keep track of your child’s progress after the visit and stay in touch with their doctor.
  • If your child's problem or issue has not improved within the agreed-upon timeline, contact their physician to discuss other options. Contact your child's doctor immediately if their condition or symptoms worsen.

Common Food Allergens

Your child could be experiencing more than one food allergy.

first-appointment first-appointment

Below is a list of symptoms that could be associated with food allergies. If your child is exhibiting any of these symptoms, contact your child’s healthcare provider. If severe symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Possible Food Allergy Symptoms:

  • Hives (red, itchy bumps)
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Blood in stools
  • Itchy skin or eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Eczema
  • Swelling of the lips, tongue, eyes, or face
  • Constipation
  • Colicky symptoms/excessive crying

Conditions

Amino acid-based formulas may be used for the dietary management of these conditions.

For Food Allergies

Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS)

Malabsorption and Other Conditions

Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders (EGIDs)

Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES)

Use under medical supervision.