Food Allergy: What You Need to Know in 2023

What is Food Allergy?

Food allergy is an abnormal response of the body's immune system to certain foods. When a person with food allergy eats a food, their body's immune system reacts as if that food is harmful and causes an allergic reaction. Common food allergies include peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, wheat, soy, fish and shellfish. Some people may also be allergic to certain fruits and vegetables.

What are the Symptoms of Food Allergy?

The symptoms of food allergy vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include hives, itching, swelling, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that can affect the whole body and can lead to death.

How is Food Allergy Diagnosed?

Food allergy is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exam, allergy skin test, and food-specific IgE antibody test. An allergy skin test is the most common test used to detect food allergies. During the test, a small amount of the suspected food allergen is placed on the skin and a small needle is used to prick the skin. If a person is allergic, swelling and redness will occur at the site.

How is Food Allergy Treated?

The best way to treat food allergy is to avoid the food that causes the allergic reaction. If a person does have an allergic reaction, they should seek medical attention right away. In some cases, epinephrine may be prescribed and should be used if a person has a severe reaction. Additionally, some people may benefit from immunotherapy, which can help reduce the symptoms of food allergy.

What is Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a serious, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It can cause a person's airways to swell closed, leading to difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include hives, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and chest pain. Anaphylaxis should be treated as a medical emergency and epinephrine should be used right away.

What Should I Do if I Suspect I Have a Food Allergy?

If you suspect that you may have a food allergy, it is important to see an allergist for diagnosis and treatment. An allergist can help you identify your food allergies, create an action plan in case of an allergic reaction, and provide guidance on how to avoid the food that causes the reaction.

How Can I Manage My Food Allergy?

Managing food allergies can be difficult, but there are steps you can take to help protect yourself. First, read food labels carefully to identify the allergens. Additionally, always carry an epinephrine auto-injector with you in case of an allergic reaction, and wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace that identifies your food allergies. Finally, make sure to tell family, friends, and other caregivers about your food allergies.

What Else Should I Know About Food Allergy?

It is important to note that food allergies can change over time, and it is possible to outgrow certain food allergies. Additionally, food allergy can be inherited, so if someone in your family has food allergies, it is important to be aware of the potential for allergies in your family. Finally, it is important to talk to your doctor about your food allergies, as they can provide guidance on how to best manage them.