Food Allergies

Food allergies affect between six and eight percent of children under the age of three and up to three percent of adults. Some children outgrow food allergies in adulthood.

Food allergies occur within a few minutes to two hours after eating an allergy-causing food. The immune system reacts and releases antibodies to attack the food it has mistakenly identified as harmful. Even eating a tiny amount of the food in the future will cause this same reaction.

Some food allergies cause discomfort, while others can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction, which can result in a coma or death.

Food intolerance is much more common and less serious than food allergies, as intolerance does not involve the immune system.

Although there is ongoing research on ways to treat food allergies, there is nothing available today to prevent or completely relieve the symptoms.

Signs & Symptoms of Food Allergies

Tingling in the mouth
Itching in the mouth
Hives, itching or eczema
Swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat
Swelling of body parts
Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting
Anaphylaxis

Signs & Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Constriction of airways
Tightening of airways
Swollen throat
Sensation of a lump in throat , making it difficult to breathe
Shock
Severe drop in blood pressure
Rapid pulse
Dizziness, lightheadedness or loss of consciousness

Causes of Food Allergies

Exercise-induced food allergy
Pollen-food allergy syndrome

When to See a Doctor About Food Allergies

Soon after eating food that causes symptoms
During the allergic reaction, if possible

Diagnosis of Food Allergies

Physical exam
Family history
Skin test
Keep a food diary
Elimination diet, cutting back on potential causes
Blood test
Oral food challenge test

Treatment of Food Allergies

Avoid foods that cause symptoms
Over-the-counter medication
Prescribed antihistamines
Injection of epinephrine — Emergency Room
Epinephrine auto injector