What happens next?

Information for the public

Some tests may not be suitable for your child, depending on your child's individual circumstances. If you have questions about specific tests covered in this information, please talk to a member of your healthcare team.

If your healthcare professional suspects that your child might have an allergy to one or more foods they should first give you and your child some information about food allergies (if possible in a form that your child can understand). This should include the type of allergy they think it could be (see box in 'Diagnosing your child's food allergy'), whether there is any risk of your child having a severe allergic reaction, and how the allergy can be diagnosed.

They should also give you information about where to get some support for you and your child, including how to contact support groups.

If your child has a suspected allergy to cows' milk, you should be offered advice about what type of hypoallergenic formula to use for a formula-fed baby, or what type of milk substitute to use for an older child. Breastfeeding mothers should be given advice about what foods to personally avoid. You should be offered help from a dietitian if you need it.

Questions that you or your child might like to ask your healthcare professional

Could my child's symptoms be caused by food allergy?
Is it possible to confirm my child's food allergy?
What will having food allergy mean for my child?
Are there any support organisations in our local area?