What are food allergies?
A food allergy is your immune system’s reaction to eating certain foods. Food allergies affect about 6%-8% of children under age 3 and about 3% of adults. Avoiding foods that cause reactions or immunotherapy can reduce unpleasant and dangerous symptoms associated with food allergies.
What are the symptoms of food allergies?
If you or your child has a food allergy, you might notice the following symptoms within a few minutes to a few hours after eating certain foods:
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Nasal congestion
- Itching or tingling in the mouth
- Itching, hives, or eczema
- Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Face, lip, or tongue swelling
In the case of a severe allergic reaction, you might experience a rapid pulse, tightening of the airways, throat swelling, a sudden drop in blood pressure, or even loss of consciousness. Immediate, emergency treatment is sometimes necessary.
What are the risk factors for food allergies?
Young children are most likely to have food allergies. Other risk factors include a family history of food allergies and having other types of allergies or asthma. Children sometimes outgrow food allergies.
What are common food allergens?
Some foods are more likely to cause allergic reactions than others. Examples include:
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Wheat
- Soy
- Corn
- Milk
- Eggs
Read nutrition labels to identify food products containing potential allergens.
What is food allergy testing?
To find out which food you or your child is allergic to, Dr. Sirven and her team review the symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam and might recommend a skin test, blood test, elimination diet, or in-office food tests.
What are food allergy treatment options?
After diagnosing food allergies, the Sirven & Associates Allergy and Asthma Center team might recommend:
Allergen avoidance
Avoiding contact with foods you’re allergic to is an effective way to reduce unpleasant symptoms. Your provider works with you to identify hidden allergens in certain food products.
Medications
Taking over-the-counter or prescription medications can reduce reactions associated with food allergies. Dr. Sirven lets you know which medicines are right for you or your child.
Emergency epinephrine
Emergency epinephrine is an injectable medication that can save you or your child’s life in case of a severe allergic reaction.
Oral immunotherapy
Exposure to small doses of foods you’re allergic to over time helps you or your child build up a tolerance to food allergens.
Early exposure
In certain instances, Dr. Sirven and her team might recommend early exposure to potential food allergens in high-risk infants to reduce their risk of developing food allergies.
Don’t live with unpleasant or life-threatening symptoms associated with food allergies when simple treatment options are available at Sirven & Associates Allergy and Asthma Center. Schedule an appointment by phone or online today.
