Food Allergies

What are food allergies?

If you have a food allergy, it means your immune system reacts adversely to a specific type of food ingredient. Food allergies can affect everyone differently, but symptoms can range from mild to severe and potentially life-threatening.

While there’s no cure for food allergies, there are several treatments available that can minimize uncomfortable symptoms and provide you with necessary relief.

What are some common symptoms of food allergies?

Common symptoms of food allergies include:

• Hives or welts
• Swelling beneath the skin
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
• Tingling or itching in the mouth
• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting

If you have a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, you may feel faint, dizzy, and weak. This type of reaction requires immediate treatment of epinephrine.

When should I see an allergy specialist about a food allergy?

If you or your child regularly experiences allergy-related symptoms after eating specific foods, schedule an evaluation at Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C. You may also need food allergy treatment if it diminishes your quality of life.

What are some types of food allergies?

Some types of food allergies include:

• Peanuts
• Tree nuts like walnuts and pistachios
• Shellfish like shrimp, crab, or lobster
• Fish
• Cow’s milk

If you have hay fever, eating certain fruits and vegetables may trigger an allergic reaction.

How are food allergies diagnosed?

To diagnose a food allergy, your provider reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including which foods that you suspect trigger your symptoms.

They may perform a physical exam and order blood or skin tests. A skin test is a quick procedure that exposes a small area of your skin to certain types of food. If you’re allergic to a particular food ingredient, you develop a reaction.

How is a food allergy treated?

The best way to avoid an allergic reaction is to avoid the particular food causing your symptoms. However, even with careful avoidance, you may accidentally come across an allergen from time to time.

To ensure you don’t experience any severe health outcomes, your provider might recommend over-the-counter antihistamines or emergency epinephrine to keep on you at all times.

To explore treatment options for food allergies, call the nearest Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C. office or book an appointment online today. Click here to learn more information